The latest design perk
Cafécore will be all the rage this year as people look to bring cosy vibes home
Just think of it as your very own Central Perk. One of the biggest kitchen trends this year will be cafécore, according to the 2024 Pinterest Predicts report released in December. The esthetic is just what it sounds like — a culinary space with cosy coffee house vibes.
“In 2024, at-home coffee stations will become the new way to espresso yourself,” said the report. It revealed that searches for “coffee bar styling” on the platform rose 1,125 per cent between September 2021 and August 2023. Other popular searches included chalk sign ideas (up 100 per cent), café chalkboard (up 50 per cent), coffee station decor (up 145 per cent), and café esthetic (up 820 per cent).
“Cafécore kitchens are gaining popularity as people seek a relaxed and social home environment,” designer Soni Mehra, chief executive and creative director of Marble Lotus, told the Livingetc website. “The cafécore aesthetic creates a retreat-like setting that fosters a sense of togetherness and tranquillity.”
What’s more, the celebration of coffee house culture is a throwback to the 1990s. The decade is nostalgic for boomers and a current fascination for gen X — and both those groups are likely to adopt the cafécore trend, according to the report. Think of the java joints on ’90s television shows, such as Monk’s Café on Seinfeld or Café Nervosa on Frasier. And of course there’s the aforementioned Central Perk on Friends.
Decorating in cafécore style works for a wide range of budgets. The goal is a curated feel with retro or offbeat touches. More affordable strategies involve thrifting kitschy pieces, while upper-tier spending can centre on luxe appliances and designer mugs.
Food & Wine magazine recommends several cafécore products found on Amazon, including the Gevi Espresso Machine, the Le Creuset Stoneware French Press, Anphsin Glass Coffee Containers, the Molimoli Coffee Syrup Dispenser Set and the Mylifeunit Mug Holder Tree.
Those who prefer tea can stock up on upscale brands like Davidstea, Fortnum & Mason, Tea Forte and Palais des Thés — as well as the tea boxes, infusers, kettles and teapots that will help you enjoy them.
“Cafécore kitchens typically feature open shelving for stylish dishware, a dedicated coffee nook with quality beans, unique mugs, and possibly a rustic coffee maker,” Mehra said.
“You’ll also likely find textured fabrics in earthy tones, warm lighting through pendant lights or strategically placed lamps and vintage or antique kitchenware for a cosy and inviting café-inspired aesthetic.”
Café curtains are a natural for the style, and bistro- or banquette-style seating can foster hubs for conversation. And don’t forget music — Spotify has playlists such as Your Favourite Coffeehouse or Coffee Table Jazz to set the mood.