MAKE A STATEMENT

From cabinet choices to statement hues, here are 9 kitchen trends that dominated in 2018

Whether you’re partial to a charming farmhouse aesthetic or a sleek, modern space, you’re sure to find a trend that sparks inspiration for an upcoming kitchen renovation.

MIX-AND-MATCH FINISHES

The days of monochromatic kitchens are far behind us. According experts at Sherwin-Williams, this year, it was all about mixing and matching colour. For example, painting base walls or cabinets in a dark charcoal tone and upper cabinets and walls in creamy offwhite tones is something we’re seeing more and more of.

WOOD COUNTERS

Wood kitchen counters were another popular trend this year. Wooden counters add warmth, create old-world charm and contribute a less utilitarian aesthetic. Wood counters feel like furniture, which visually enhances an area that is likely much more than just a place to cook. Little wonder they have been such a hit.

MATTE BLACK APPLIANCES

Stainless steel has had its time – the latest must-have appliances are a sleek matte black that won’t show every little fingerprint.

MULTIPURPOSE ISLANDS

In designing kitchens, the adage ‘form follows function’ It is important to keep both in mind with every design. A number of factors came into play with this kitchen design. The family needed to be able to store their children’s toys. The husband is also an avid cook and he wanted easy access to his various books. The island storage was the perfect place for keeping the family organized.

TWO-TONED CABINETRY

Two-toned cabinetry keeps a kitchen from looking too flat and sterile. The kitchen is the center of the home, so playing with various colors and textures creates visual impact and brings more warmth and life to the space. Using twotone cabinetry can work just as well in a traditional/transitional kitchen as it does in a more contemporary/modern space. Try using two different paint colours as well as using one paint colour and a more natural-looking wood together.

DARK COUNTERTOPS

Dark, deep countertops were the order of the day. Homeowners were intrigued with slate tiles that came in black, dark green and multi-colored rust tones and basalt slate was one of the most popular designs this year.

GOLDEN ACCENTS

Rose gold, brass, and copper finishes are here to stay on gadgets, hardware, and appliances. Warm finishes bring a homey luxury and pair well with many cabinet colors. We are completely on board with this trend from 2018.

MIXED METALS

Mixing metals is a great way to add visual interest, particularly in a kitchen. When you mix metals, like bronze and brass, you are creating depth. This works so well in a kitchen because you have the opportunity to use different finishes in your plumbing, hardware, and lighting. A matte finish combined with a shiny one creates a great balance. Strive for a coordinated look rather than a matchy-matchy one and the end result will be far more interesting than selecting the same finish throughout.

PATTERNED FLOORING

Going with bold patterned flooring in a kitchen is one way to incorporate drama, movement and yet another layer of customization to create a truly unique space. Be sure to select a pattern that you connect with naturally. Maybe that’s the pattern’s origin, or the way it ties in with your particular architectural language. If you do decide to go bold on the floor, let other layers within the space create a sense of quietness or pause so the bold pattern on the floor remains special.