When entering a kitchen, cabinets draw the most attention and their color, layout, design, and material choices can affect the style of the entire space. Functional design starts with kitchen cabinets, and they reflect the client’s daily lifestyle. Kitchen cabinets set the design for a kitchen and dictate the style of the décor around them. They determine the overall space of the kitchen and affect the flow of work in the kitchen. Storage is an essential functional consideration in the kitchen. Kitchen cabinets’ functionality determines daily use and can enhance or frustrate the user’s experience. Texture and the use of accent features, such as contrasting colors or varied materials, are becoming more popular choices for kitchen cabinet design. Earthy tones like white oak and walnut are in demand and provide texture and a softer look. Lighter colors, such as gray and green, are becoming more popular choices for kitchen cabinet design. Natural wood tones, such as wood grain laminate, are being used more frequently.
Some Thoughts on Kitchen Cabinets
Gommeringer notes that gray and white finishes are still popular, but they are seeing an increase in natural and stained wood finishes, as well as matte finishes. “The trend is moving away from high-gloss and towards more matte finishes, whether it’s paint or wood,” he says.
Manufacturers also report an increase in demand for customized finishes, with consumers seeking unique looks for their kitchen cabinetry. “There is an increasing trend towards customization, where people want their cabinets to be one-of-a-kind, with personalized touches and unique finishes,” says Hodshire.
Ultimately, the choices homeowners make for their kitchen cabinetry can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of their kitchen. From the material, color, and design to the functional storage and layout, cabinetry plays a crucial role in creating a beautiful and efficient space for cooking, eating, and gathering. And with the rise of textured accents, customized finishes, and unique design elements, the possibilities for cabinetry in the kitchen are endless.
Gommeringer agrees that homeowners are looking for more variety in the visual aspects of their kitchen cabinetry. “Consumers are moving away from the more traditional, ornate looks and gravitating towards modern, clean lines,” he says. “We are seeing more slab doors in matte and high-gloss finishes, and an uptick in glass fronts with thin metal frames.”
The Hardware of Kitchen Cabinets
In terms of hardware, there is a trend towards minimalism and simplicity, with sleek handles and knobs in finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, and polished chrome being popular choices.
As technology advances, kitchen cabinetry is also becoming smarter and more functional. “There is an increase in demand for cabinetry that offers charging stations for mobile devices and built-in LED lighting to improve visibility,” notes O’Neill.
In summary, cabinetry is a crucial aspect of kitchen design, both visually and functionally. The choices homeowners make for their cabinets can influence the overall style and layout of the kitchen, as well as impact daily functionality. While trends lean towards clean, sleek lines and efficient functionality, there is also a growing interest in textured accents and visual variety, as well as smart technology features.
