Touchless design features for a germ-free home Kitchen trends of 2021

Touchless technologies have long been featured in public spaces to limit the spread of germs. Now, these motion-activated innovations are making their way into homes. Here are a few you may want to adopt.

• Light switches. Illuminate your home by walking past conveniently placed sensors.

• Faucets and toilets. Touchless versions will help keep your bathrooms sanitary.

• Soap dispensers. Wash your hands without getting the dispenser dirty.

• Appliances. Dishwashers, refrigerators and ovens are increasingly featuring technologies that allow you to open and close them without using a handle.

• Garbage bins. Open and close your trash can with motion-activated technology.

You can find touchless technologies at hardware and appliance stores in your area.

If you plan to remodel your kitchen this year, you should know that lacquered cabinets, exaggerated modernism and large cabinet handles are passé. When it comes to kitchen designs, here’s what’s trending in 2021.

OVERSIZED PANTRIES

Whether free-standing or walk-in, large pantries with showcase-like shelving and plenty of hideaway storage are a hit in kitchens of all styles. If you have the space for it, this trend is for you.

STORAGE WALLS

If there’s limited room in your kitchen, floor-to-ceiling storage rather than multiple cabinets will maximize the space to accommodate all your cooking essentials. Pro-tip: add electrical outlets inside the cabinets so you can plug in small appliances.

HIDDEN RANGE HOODS

Range hoods that are integrated into cabinets or walls are increasingly popular. You can also hide them behind tile or natural stone. However, make sure your range hood is positioned for optimal efficiency and easy to access for repair or replacement.

WARM NEUTRAL TONES

Browns, beiges and greys are taking centre stage in 2021. Hardware should also be warm. Choose matted gold, copper, champagne and charcoal pieces for your drawers and cabinets as well as your faucets and other fixtures.

NATURAL MATERIALS

Wood, stone and other materials that evoke the natural world are the backbone of minimalist, contemporary, rustic and garden-themed kitchens. Opt for understated matte finishes and warm rather than cool tones.

If there’s one trend not to ignore in 2021, it’s the rising tendency to favour locally crafted items and regionally sourced materials. When renovating your kitchen, be sure to buy decorative items, cabinets, hardware, tile and stone from retailers and craftspeople in your community.