As a kitchen designer here in Hagerstown, I am often asked about certain design “trends” and whether or not they will stand the test of time. If I had a crystal ball, I could answer those questions, but instead I have to rely on my own experience and what I see happening in the industry. So let’s take a look at t afe of the recent trends.
The trend that I am asked about most often is the fairly recent penchant towards gray cabinets. I will have to say that while I was a bit leery at first – gray does seem to be sticking around! It is seen in a painted finish or as a stained finish on cabinets or as an accent color in countertops, flooring and backsplash material. It is looked at as another neutral that seems to be here for the foreseeable future – so embrace all of the Shades of Gray!
Next, let’s look at two-toned cabinets. We have long offered the accent color on an island of a sink base, but the newer trend is to two-tone the base and wall cabinets. While it is not for the faint of heart, there is a certain appeal to mixing 2 colors in your kitchen. The trick is to figure out which way to take the tall cabinets. Do you match them to the base or to the wall cabinets? This is where a good designer with an updated design program can really help. By seeing the tall cabinets in both colors, you can usually figure it out pretty quickly which will look best in your kitchen!
Open shelving is another trend that we are seeing mor of recently. I rather like to break up the monotony of lots of wall cabinets in a row, but you had better be fairly neat to try out this trend. Everyone will see what is stored on your open shelves, so you need to keep them orderly. It is usually best to mix a few closed door cabinets in for those items that aren’t quite so pretty.
How about white cabinets – are they another trend? Absolutely not! White cabinets have been popular since the advent of modern kitchens. Twenty years ago, white cabinets were often made with Thermofoil doors, but today they are made by adding a painted or opaque finish to maple wood. White cabinets have never really gone “out of style” and I don’t imagine they ever truly will. So go for that perfect, crisp white kitchen with confidence.
These are a few of the more recent trends that I believe will be around for a while. The biggest truth in today’s kitchen is that individual taste is key. Go for what you truly love, and it will always be your favorite space! Come visit us a J & D Kitchen for expert help with you design project.