Predicting the future is hardly a precise science, and trend spotters seldom get predictions 100% right. However, it remains captivating and it’s possible to identify trends by paying close attention to and drawing inspiration from what’s happening in an industry. This is the opinion of Arnold Jardim – managing director of cabinetry company Dezign A Door. Whether yours could use a little facelift or a major makeover, these kitchen design trend projections will help you create a fabulous new kitchen for 2019.
“Kitchens tend to be the centerpiece of the home. It’s the room where we entertain guests, prepare meals and share drinks and good stories. It’s where memories are made. Spending hours in this room is not uncommon,” says Jardim. “If you’re traditional and think you are not a trend person [and don’t want to follow the wave of popular opinion] it’s worth considering that just because it’s trending, doesn’t mean it can’t be timeless.”
While it’s true that decorating according to trends can be dangerous, when it comes to kitchens, Jardim says that trends are a little different and if you miss a step you’ll start to date your house by five to 10 years. So whether you’re renovating or refreshing a tired look, these are a few of the predictable trends that we’ve compiled, and which homeowners can draw inspiration from.
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1. Bold colours
The most significant trend in 2019 is that colour is big and bold, and there’s a move away from white to richer, bolder, intoxicating looks. “Colours like dark blue, black, deep greens, and dark grey feature, so consider introducing some distinctive hues,” says Jardim. “If not on all your cabinets, add accent walls or opt for two tone cabinets – another trend on the rise. Use two complementary tones on the upper and lower cabinets – it adds interest and energy to the room.”
2. Less is more
The slow, quiet trend that’s been gaining momentum over the last few years is no upper cabinets. Jardim believes it’s inspired by minimalism and supports those who want their kitchens to appear more open and as clean as possible. It seems that the new kitchens of 2019 and beyond will feature one wall of lower cabinets and countertops, a larger island, and floor-to-ceiling storage in the rest of the space.
Storage walls are defined as the modern equivalent of the classic butler’s pantry but updated for today’s smaller spaces. Bigger single-level islands with built in storage space is part of this trend. More intimate single-level islands allow light to stream through a space and expand valuable prep space.
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3. Moving towards metal
Metal shelving appears to be replacing open wood shelves as the gold standard, giving kitchens attitude, style and the opportunity to showcase beautiful glasses, plates and décor pieces. “These shelves are often used when upper cabinets have been dropped or they’re e used in conjunction with cupboards,” says Jardim.
4. Get a handle on it
When it comes to kitchen door handles, even leather rings and strip handles are gaining in popularity, but for a truly modern kitchen design – the best handle is no handle at all. If that’s not your style – brass appears to be the stand out metal for 2019, giving a luxurious finish to cabinets. Pair with brass taps for a look that continues throughout the kitchen.
5. Make a splash with patterned splashbacks
Funky splashbacks and patterned tiles are having their day in the sun and introducing a new level of style to kitchens. They make a statement and can be paired with more unconventional sinks which is also an area of the kitchen getting more attention: bright metallic, hammered finishes, intricate details and even gold. Incorporating more natural stone beyond countertops and continuing it to waterfall edges and using it for tall splashbacks can be expected in the year ahead.
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6. Light relief
In any room, lighting plays a huge role and in 2019, LED lighting will continue to be applied in innovative ways. “Consider using LEDs to illuminate a toe-kick, brighten work spaces beneath cabinetry, and perk up an island,” says Jardim. “Lights – especially the hanging variety, can also be a focal design feature and create interest in the kitchen.
7. Floor it
Don’t discount other flooring materials just yet – but there’s no disputing that hardwood floors have kept kitchens warm and cosy for years, and that won’t change anytime soon. They are versatile, adaptable and beautiful – and even more so when a rug is used. However, any rugs in the kitchen should be placed outside of the main cooking and high traffic areas.
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8. Feature appliances
Gone are the days that kitchen appliances are one-dimensional, stainless steel. Today they are feature pieces – dark matte is popular and retro appliances and bright-coloured stoves are making a strong comeback. “If you haven’t invested in a matte black appliance yet, now’s the time,” says Jardim. “What was once a stark choice in all-white, modern kitchens is now a way to subtly add contrast to wood cabinets and more traditional shaker style kitchens.”
On the other hand – integrated appliances are becoming more popular with clever paneling and built-ins, incorporating them into the cabinetry. “Standalone statement appliances or appliance integration – both are trendy ways to accessorise a kitchen,” says Jardim.
Before you start any kitchen project and introduce these trends, there are some important considerations to be aware of:
- Only use a KSA (Kitchen Specialists Associated) registered company. This will protect you should things go wrong as you’ll have recourse and a means to recoup your losses. Shop around and ask for references while selecting your supplier.
- Set a budget limit – don’t over capitalise and don’t over extend yourself either.
- Consider how long you’ll be staying in your home.
- If you have kids, make sure you choose finishes and a layout that’s child-friendly.
- Consider your lifestyle and what your kitchen deliverables need to be.
While some of these micro trends are already here and being adopted, others may take time to be embraced. In the meantime, ditch the cherry wood and ornate cabinets – classic, clean lines are more in vogue.
*Information supplied by Dezign A Door.
