New finishes, connectivity lead trends in appliances
Two of the biggest trends we’re seeing in kitchen appliances, says Cameron Skilling, senior merchant for appliances for Home Depot, is increased connectivity and new finishes. “Our customers are engaging with smart-home and voice-activated technology more and more in all aspects of their homes, and that is propelling capabilities within our appliance assortments as well,” he says. “When it comes to finishes — where stainless steel dominated the appliance space for 25, 30 years, customers are now looking for more variety than ever before.”
Erin Davis Judkins, an interior designer at Wayfair. ca, says there has definitely been a move away from commercial-grade oven ranges toward more “classic residential-style ranges, with people embracing the concept of “more is more.” “Homeowners are wanting bonus appliances in their homes such as extra ovens, espresso machines and wine fridges; however, they also want them hidden for a streamlined look,” she says.
“We’re seeing more panelled appliances, and appliances in varying colours to blend with the rest of the space. Even white appliances are coming back into style because they blend well with the never-out-ofstyle white cabinets.” More people are also opting for colour and retro appliances, Davis says, making them the focal point of the room, adding people often overlook drawers in kitchen design. “Drawers are so important in the kitchen,” she says. “Drawers aren’t just for utensils and kitchen towels; larger drawers are perfect for dishes and small kitchen appliances. They make better use of deep cabinets, where items would otherwise be inaccessible.”
The other key ingredient in kitchen design is lighting, Davis says. “Lighting is so important in a kitchen,” she says. “The kitchen is one of the most popular rooms in a home, so you want your lighting to be pleasant for gatherings with friends and family, but also bright so that you can complete kitchen tasks. Layer the lighting and include dimmer switches where you can. Soft white light is a great solution.”