Trend Spotting
With remodeling projects percolating across the country, kitchens are in the spotlight because a kitchen renovation improves comfort and function now—and resale value later. To learn about some of the top trends in kitchens today, we reached out to Long Island-based designer Kate Singer and Miami-based designer Steven La Fonte to get their insights. Here's what they had to say.
John Bessler for Kate Singer
Bright White Cabinets
I still see a strong preference for crisp white kitchen cabinetry, even in traditional interiors, perhaps with a contrasting color on the island.
—Kate Singer
Induction Cooking
Induction cooktops are in high demand because they provide more consistent heat than gas. The “wow” factor with this type of cooktop is that it can boil a pot of water in 90 seconds! Even microwaves are becoming more stylish, with discreet stainless steel fronts and control panels.
—Steven La Fonte
Bare Feet on Floors
I have been doing a lot of wood floors in kitchens, more so than tile or stone. It's warmer and softer underfoot, and often seamlessly connects the kitchen to a great room and other areas of the home.
— Kate Singer
Lighting Up
No kitchen is complete until it is crowned with a beautiful light fixture. Try pendants or chandeliers made of shimmering glass or crystal for a touch of sparkle.
—Steven La Fonte
Butler's Pantries
I see a revival of the butler’s pantry in many homes. It’s a great connection point between the kitchen and dining room. It’s also the perfect spot for a wine or coffee bar, and for storing or displaying special serving pieces and place settings.
—Kate Singer
Low-Divide Sinks
I’m seeing a preference for streamlined single-bowl sinks in stainless steel in today's kitchen—and they have gone deeper. However, for consumers who want a double bowl, low-divide sinks are a great option because the divider's short height allows larger items to be placed in the sink with more stability.
—Steven La Fonte
Ultra-Functional Faucets
Industrial-style faucets, like Dornbracht's "Tara," are modern classics that work well with most kitchen designs. Auto-touch sensors are also becoming popular—it's easier and more sanitary to pass your hands under the faucet to trip a sensor than to touch the knobs and levers.
—Steven La Fonte
Espresso Bars
I see many clients incorporating high-end coffee and espresso bars with expensive commercial-grade European machines that make the most incredible lattes and cappuccinos at the press of a button. That’s luxury!
—Kate Singer
Quartzite Countertops
White or light-colored natural stone quartzites are in big demand due to the fact that they are even harder than granite but have the flow and veining of marble.
—Steven La Fonte
virginia-kitchens.com
New Technology
Steam ovens are hot items on the market. Today's consumer is becoming more interested in a steam-style of cooking, as a reflection of an overall trend toward a more efficient and healthier lifestyle.
—Steven La Fonte
Smart Storage
Soft-close drawers and practical cabinetry features, such as platter and cookie sheet dividers, comfort-height plate drawers, built-in spice cabinets near cooktops, and a well-organized desk with cabinetry that conceals daily clutter are all popular requests among my clients now.
—Kate Singer
Illuminating Options
Task lighting has evolved over the past several years as LED lighting—both under-cabinet and recessed—offers more efficient illumination with less heat.
—Steven La Fonte
Steven LaFonte
For More...
If you're interested in more on design trends, consider:
Designers Tell All: Today's Top 10 Bathroom Trends
Kitchen Flooring: 8 Popular Choices
Award-Winning Budget-Friendly Kitchen Makeover
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