Story by Preston Guyton
When it comes to kitchen design, certain elements tend to remain consistent year after year. However, there are always subtle shifts that can significantly enhance the aesthetics, functionality, and overall feel of today's modern kitchens. The kitchen trends for 2018 focus on creating a sleek, minimalist yet opulent space that serves as an excellent example of home improvements with high return on investment (ROI).
Bench Seating
Many people associate bench seating with casual gatherings or large families, but its versatility goes far beyond that. Built-in benches along walls provide an efficient way to maximize dining space without taking up too much room. Placing benches on both sides of a table breaks away from the boxed-in look of traditional square or rectangular tables surrounded by chairs. This setup creates an open, inviting atmosphere where everyone can comfortably gather for meals.
Concrete Countertops and Backsplashes
For decades, natural stone countertops like granite and marble have dominated the kitchen landscape. However, concrete countertops are emerging as a strong contender. Available in countless styles and hues, concrete offers both durability and flexibility. Properly sealed, it can be easier to maintain than a granite slab. Homeowners have the option to either pour the concrete directly onto their cabinetry or opt for precast pieces. Whether you're aiming for an elegant, industrial, or chic aesthetic, concrete countertops deliver.
Smart Kitchen Upgrades
In our fast-paced world, convenience is key. Modern kitchens now come equipped with smart appliances that integrate seamlessly into your lifestyle. Refrigerators, for instance, feature built-in touchscreens that guide users through recipes, display weather updates, or even play music during meal prep. Through Wi-Fi connectivity, these devices can sync with your smartphone apps to monitor cooking progress or track energy usage. Fully integrated systems allow homeowners to control everything from lighting to music and ventilation—all from one centralized platform.
Colorful Fixtures
While brushed or satin nickel finishes continue to dominate kitchen fixtures, bold color options are gaining traction. From classic brass to trendy rose gold, homeowners are embracing vibrant accents to add personality to their otherwise neutral spaces. White quartz, concrete, or marble countertops paired with white cabinets create the perfect backdrop for eye-catching fixtures in shades of black, gold, copper, and more.
Optimizing Cabinet Space
Just because a kitchen boasts plenty of cabinet space doesn't mean it's optimized effectively. Many people find themselves neglecting those hard-to-reach upper shelves. To address this issue, current trends lean toward reducing upper cabinetry in favor of open shelving and pull-out drawers. This approach not only opens up the room visually but also provides additional counter space while minimizing visual clutter caused by excessive cabinetry.
Integrated Appliance Design
The charm of a classic farmhouse kitchen lies in its simplicity—think wooden tables and rustic woodwork. Adding modern stainless steel appliances can disrupt this cozy ambiance. Fortunately, for those willing to invest, built-in appliances offer a seamless integration into custom cabinetry. This design choice maintains the timeless charm while incorporating contemporary technology. Additionally, cabinetry can house smaller appliances, keeping counters clear and promoting tidiness.
Creating the ideal kitchen involves staying attuned to evolving trends. In 2018, functionality took center stage with practical materials like concrete leading the charge. Meanwhile, bold colors added flair to fixtures, while streamlined seating and cabinetry complemented state-of-the-art smart appliances.
Preston Guyton REALTOR®
Broker in Charge/Managing Partner, CRG Companies, Inc.
7717 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC, 29572
Construction, Real Estate and Green.
www.crgcompaniesinc.com
JINING SHANTE SONGZHENG CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO.LTD , https://www.stszcmparts.com