The kitchen is becoming the central hub for every home, and also multitasking - many of the functions that previously had their own working space (e.g., laundry, dining, etc) are being integrated into the kitchen. Thus many people are remodelling their kitchens to suit their daily functions and to add some trendy taste. There are many trendy ways to update your kitchen this year. But before you decide to remodel your kitchen it would be wise to base your remodelling on the latest trends: sustainability, multi-functionality, convenience, high-tech, fresh foodie, colour, style and lighting.

Sustainability

You can use inexpensive recycled or natural materials such as recycled glass counter tops. Countertops [made of recycled aggregate materials] are number one recycled product in the kitchen. Other eco-favourites include concrete floors, and concrete block walls, all of which become part of the design statement. "Materials used in their raw state tend to cost less and do not produce off-gassing" Peterson said.

Multi-functionality

Multi-functional features are the best way forward. For example, sinks with accessories such as built-in preparation boards, or drain trays. The storage can be stylish and usable and save you more space and disturbance. Connie Edwards (a kitchen design guru from International Builder's show) also suggests that builders should maximize every square inch of volume space with space-savers such as skinny, vertical pantries, pull-out cabinets and spice racks, and wine cubbies that fill odd cavities. "Anything that pulls out is an absolute winner today," she said. That includes pull-out wastebaskets and recycling centers, which are definitely must haves. Furthermore, the smaller kitchens can arrange various design tricks to help "grow the space," such as horizontal lines, lighter finishes, mirrored backsplashes, and diagonal patterns on the floor or ceiling, Mary Jo Camp said (a kitchen design guru from International Builder's show). Cited:  Builderonline, 2010. You can also buy appliances that are set on wheels or movable islands which will allow you to rearrange your kitchen for cleaning and entertainment purposes.

Convenience

The kitchen should be convenient, reachable and user-friendly for elders, kids, short adults, tall adults, and individuals with limited mobility. The kitchen should have working surfaces and storage areas of varying heights, with appliances that are easy to reach.

High-tech

The new technology makes the kitchen more fun, convenient and versatile.  Small alterations like device charging stations, a flat screen TV, or a computer, exemplify this point. Technology makes the kitchen more enjoyable.

Fresh food kitchen

Commercial grade stoves, refrigerators with multiple cooling settings and humidity settings for keeping food fresh longer, copper sinks with their rustic appeal and natural anti-bacterial properties are all new ideas to keep your food fresh and free from bacteria. Having a fresh herb gardens on the window sill are all new trends that promote fresh and healthy food preparation in your kitchen.

Colour

Stainless steel appliances are still on but an addition of colorful appliances and decoration makes it more appealing for both retro and modern. Vivid blues, oranges and corals are becoming more popular. Right now we all want to be comforted, and blue is a universal favourite." Also popular on the colour wheel: complex neutral grays, cool browns, and pumpkin tones, offset by dark or white cabinetry with Shaker style doors, said Edwards. Cited: Builderonline, 16 July 2010.

Style

Every kitchen should have at least one special design feature for example plate racks, exposed stemware holders, and glass cabinet doors also provide stylish accents that don't cost a fortune. Stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and hardwood floors are timeless. Moreover glass and stainless steel work surfaces, large-scale (18" square) floor tile, chrome fixtures, and lightweight hulled concrete are making statement.

Lighting

Decorative light fixtures definitely supplement a room's overall brightness. Sometimes task lighting becomes a night light when the kitchen is not in use. Fluorescent lights now provide energy-saving alternatives to conventional incandescent bulbs, but it?s important to ensure that the colour of the light emanating from various sources is consistent. Down-lighters are also more commonly used inside display cupboards and from the ceiling to bring different shades of warmth into the kitchen.Cited: Builderonline, 2010.

Links:

• Builderonline
• Articlebase
• Marketwatch

Updated: 16 July 2010 

by Zanele Matshotyana