Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM FEBRUARY 2021 32 THE 2021 KITCHEN DESIGN TRENDS TRANSFORMING THE HOME I f we have learned anything from 2020, it's that the pandemic will have a lasting impact on the way people spend time in their home. Kitchen layouts, materials and styles are noticeably shifting as homeowners remain holed-up and continue to adapt their lifestyle as their priorities change. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), homeowners will have a greater desire to invest in the home in the upcoming years, which will include, but won't be limited to, the need for multi-purpose spaces in the kitchen, integrated whole- home technology, minimalistic styles and the use of organic or natural materials and enhanced outdoor living areas. THE RISE OF THE L-SHAPED KITCHEN ISLAND The kitchen has been considered the heart of the home for a long time now – a place where families gather for meals. As working from home and home schooling become more commonplace, the focus turns to enlarging the kitchen footprint, which may even mean taking down walls. One of the top trends encompassing this includes creating L-shaped islands to maximize counter space and open the layout. Now islands have become a space to work, to home school, to serve as a dining table, to use for meal prep and for extra (hidden) storage. It has morphed to become multi-functional. "Kitchens are getting an intense workout these days! With parents and kids working from home and navigating alternate schedules, an L-shaped kitchen plan allows for multiple activities throughout the day as constant traffic meanders through this space," said Lori Gilder, NKBA member and founder, Interior Makeovers Inc. "Our clients called to share how pleased they were with the layout, functionality and materiality of their new kitchen addition, and how easily this new space functioned for them with their college kids back home." With the kitchen footprint expanding, the need for easy-to-clean surfaces is top of mind for most homeowners. Quartz countertops will continue to be the leading material (very easy to clean) and will be seen in lighter colors and slab or long subway backsplashes. Induction cooktops (also very easy to clean) are on their way to surpassing gas cooktops. A TASTE OF THE OUTDOORS, INDOORS A new leading style trend comprising natural and organic materials has been making its way into people's kitchens. While contemporary and transitional styles are forecasted to be in the greatest demand, this new look showcases the importance of maintaining a sense of calmness, well-being and simplicity during an otherwise chaotic time. Designers see full painted wood and full wood grain cabinetry becoming more popular, in addition to warm and natural finishes and larger windows, to bring the feeling of the outdoors inside. "Seamlessly integrated indoor/outdoor living spaces have long been a priority for clients interested in working with my design K I T C H E N D E S I G N T R E N D S L-Shaped Islands and open kitchen layouts are major trends for 2021. Design: Lori Gilder, Interior Makeovers, Photo credit: Zeke Ruelas

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