Opt for New Functionality

    Not only is the color of kitchen cabinets changing — hardware manufacturers, like Blum, are changing the way cabinet doors and drawers function. These hydraulic, easy-close doors fold up and out of the way with the touch of a button making them perfect for kitchens where space is an issue. Image courtesy of Blum

 

     Fresh Hues for Sinks

     Like kitchen cabinets, sinks are trending away from basic white or stainless steel. This eye-catching green apron-front sink by Kohler was designed by tastemaker Jonathan Adler. A colorful sink is a great way to pop in a small amount of color in a neutral kitchen or make it more of a focal point by using the same hue in the backsplash. Image courtesy of Kohler

     Choose Bold Fixtures

      Bold color isn’t the only way to create excitement. Kitchen designer Vasi Ypsilantis used these oversized light fixtures with black fabric shades from Tech Lighting to add some wow: “They’re about 2 feet in diameter and are slightly larger than you would expect for the space,” she says. “But they give a great sense of depth perception and create drama in a room with a typical low ceiling.” The luxurious cabinets are Poggenpohl’s Marsh Oak Veneer with a rich near-black stain. Image courtesy of Poggenpohl

     Contrast Light and Shadow

     In the same kitchen, Vasi chose Caesarstone “Blizzard” for the countertops and used a glass mosaic backsplash from Mixed-Up Mosaics that combines milky white and eggplant colors with a mirrored tile. “Keeping the cabinets such a dark finish in a small space worries most homeowners because they think it will make the kitchen look smaller,” she says. “But it actually creates drama, as long as the countertops and backsplashes are kept light or white to balance light and dark in the space.” Design by Vasi Ypsilantis

     Maximize Kitchen Storage

     Kitchen storage is always an issue, especially for apartment dwellers or any homeowner whose kitchen is short on space. To remedy this, manufacturers like Hafele are doubling up storage in new, custom kitchens with clever multi-tiered drawers. Image courtesy of Hafele

 

     Add In Automation

     The kitchen of the future is here today. From sensor-activated lights that illuminate the kitchen only when it’s in use to meat thermometers that alert your smartphone when dinner is done, kitchen technology is here to make your life easier. If you’re new to automation, a great introductory product is a hands-free faucet, like this one by Moen. Perfect for homes with small children who can’t yet reach the handle or any kitchen where busy cooks often have sticky hands. Image courtesy of Moen