In the past, a dream kitchen looked similar for all homeowners. Uniform cabinetry, square or galley-style rooms, and separate dining areas were commonplace and highly desired. In recent years, homeowners have shifted how kitchens look and function. New kitchen architecture and designs allow more versatility in look, size, and function. Just how are kitchens different in modern homes?
Open Concept
In today’s kitchens, entertainment is the focus. Separate kitchens, dining rooms, and entertainment spaces are a feature of the past. Kitchen architecture breaks down walls and barriers (literally) by making a seamless kitchen, living room, and dining area space. An open-concept kitchen allows for easier entertainment and interaction with other family members and provides more versatility in how the kitchen is used. Countertops, cabinets, storage, and dining furniture can be extended into the living space however the homeowner wants.
Biophilic
Modern kitchens are bringing nature into their designs. Natural wood countertops or exposed carved beams create a unique treehouse-like feeling in every kitchen floor plan. Hanging plants, floor plants, and window planters can bring more natural features to the kitchen. In-kitchen herb gardens can allow fresh harvesting right from the convenience of a kitchen. Expansive windows can frame gardens or tree life, providing a beautiful view for occupants. Some homes even host whole kitchens outdoors in the backyard or patio for the full experience.
Exposed Shelving
Homeowners are thriving in purposely ‘messy’ kitchen design styles. Exposed shelving displays all kitchen tools, dishes, and cutlery to create a busy maximalist style modern owners love. Artisan, asymmetrical shelving, such as natural wood or mixed materials, can also add more distinctive looks. Exterior shelving without cabinets can provide more storage space as a bonus.
Natural Materials
Architects and builders have used less plastic and unnatural materials in homes lately, including the kitchen. Authentic wood cabinets, metal accents, and stone countertops are popular options. Natural materials are recyclable and renewable, and they don’t have as much trouble breaking down in the environment when disposed of. Due to their reusability, these materials do not have to be put in a landfill at all. Eco-conscious homeowners are finding the most eco-friendly sources for these materials, including repurposed wood or metal, to reduce resource waste.
Industrial Chrome
Industrial or metal architectural features are increasingly popular in many kitchens and homes. Exposed air ducts, metal islands, steel pot racks, and stainless steel appliances are popular options to complete the ‘chrome’ look. Chrome features add a futuristic, modern look to any kitchen. Many homeowners opt for a mix of stainless steel and natural features to avoid overwhelming the space with too much repetition.
Cabinet Shape and Color
The traditional kitchen cabinet look is changing; modern kitchen designers want a fresh look. New homeowners are implementing custom countertops and cabinetry into their kitchens' architecture, which feature rounded corners and shapes, unique materials, glass doors, and vibrant colors. Imagine an expansive, open kitchen with bright yellow, round cabinets with innovative wood countertops. Since so much time is spent in the kitchen, tailored cabinetry and distinctive color schemes make kitchens more inviting for more homeowners.
Mixed Material
Trending kitchen designs include using mixed materials for cabinets, countertops, walls, and windows. Mixing various materials and looks adds a popular asymmetrical style that new homeowners enjoy. Varying materials and colors also make a space unique and tailor-made. Wood cabinets with stone countertops and tile backsplash are a popular and classic combination.
Hidden Storage and Appliances
With minimalism at the forefront of modern home designs, kitchens incorporate ways to hide certain elements, like trash cans or appliances. Modern dishwashers can be made to look like existing cabinetry, and trash cans are hidden in the cabinets and easily accessed. Some homeowners are even opting for smaller refrigerators to hide underneath the counters.
Multifunctional Space
Kitchens are often beautiful spaces that also make great entertainment or workspaces. Modern kitchen architecture is taking advantage of the potential of kitchen spaces by including multifunctional designs. Kitchen islands can transform into work or craft desks facing an expansive, bright window. Alternatively, countertops can transition into a long bar space to host friends and family. A cooktop island can transition into a dining table, too. Multifunctional kitchens allow cooks and occupants of many tastes to enjoy the space.
Ostentatious Lighting
While recessed lighting is still prevalent in many homes, newer kitchen lighting designs embrace the big and beautiful. From large lantern ceiling lights to ostentatious chandeliers, kitchen designs are upping the ante regarding how the space is lit. Smart lighting features can further customize brightness and color settings, complementing the space's lighting choices.
Conclusion
Uniform and subtle kitchens aren’t cutting it for many modern homeowners. Kitchen spaces are becoming unique in terms of material, symmetry, and lighting. Natural materials and biophilic designs create an eco-friendly, scenic cooking space. Multifunctional, open-concept designs enhance the function and size of kitchens by providing multiple entertainment and work options.
