The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home and for good reason. Not only are they the space where meals are prepared, but are also the space where a family may gather together for a meal or entertain guests. Kitchens have slowly evolved over the years, taking a more center stage since the dawn of the pandemic. The dining table tends to often double up as a work space for the adults or a study table for the kids. With this shift in purpose, the current kitchen trends have also evolved to make allowance for this change.
Here are the top 7 trends that have proved to be a rage in 2022
1. Tiled Backsplash Walls Have Returned
With the focus shifting to hygiene and easy cleaning, kitchen backsplash tile are making a comeback since they are very easy to clean. While you may opt for whichever design you may like – a vintage subway tile backsplash, an eye catching patterned backsplash or a subtle neutral colored backsplash, with the range of modern kitchen tiles available you will definitely find the tile of your dreams.
2. Custom Cabinets and Organization
The popularity of built in cabinets and organizational spaces is increasing since the world has finally come to terms with the impracticality of open shelves, however stunning they may look. Having an organized space is so much better than dealing with clutter, but having a space that has custom organizational elements that makes your job easy is just ecstasy inducing! So, instead of buying a cookie cutter cabinet, why not get a custom one built that adheres to your needs. For example, you may have large pots and pans that may or may not fit into a store bought cabinet, but getting a custom cabinet built will ensure there is enough space for your pots and pans.
3. Mix and Match Different Materials for a Fresh Look
Nowadays more and more people are willing to invest in their kitchens and wish to have a more design centric approach. This has led to a rise in people mixing various materials to achieve their vision. For example, instead of opting for the same finish for the base of the island and cabinetry, you can use various colors and finishes to create a space that is refreshing, yet functional. Another way you can mix materials is by adding a mix of tiles and wallpaper to the kitchen walls. While the backsplash is all tiles, the accent area behind the dining table can be covered with brightly patterned wallpaper that draws the eye.
4. Make a Statement with Your Countertop
With the dawn of 2022, more and more designers and homeowners are opting to inject character and perspective into unexpected spaces. While you would expect a unique finish on the cabinetry or a striking hardware finish that instantly grabs attention – more and more homeowners are opting for striking countertop materials to set their space apart. While quartz and granite have emerged to be two of the most popular countertop options, tile slabs are also gaining popularity due to their unmatched designs, durability, low water retention properties, and of course, their pocket friendly prices.
5. Changing Things Up With the Cabinetry
While wood has always been a common choice for cabinetry in kitchens, trends are slowly veering towards unexpected materials, such as rough concrete, stunning stones, and plaster. These materials will not only help give your kitchen a unique look, but give the space a chic, modern look.
6. Light It Up!
With the advancement in technology, the lighting for kitchens is veering away from the harsh task lighting towards integrated lighting. These lights not only perform a functional role, but add to the aesthetic of the space too. It is also advisable to light up the kitchen according to the function of each area with built in lights, lanterns or pendant lights. The latter can also function as a visual focal point for the space.
7. Inject Color
Yes, white kitchens are a timeless classic that won’t fall out of fashion, but if you are looking to refresh your space, adding color is your best bet. You can do so in a number of ways – in the form of a brightly patterned backsplash, some solid colors on the cabinet doors or even colorful stove tops – the possibilities are endless! Just ensure you don’t go overboard and stick to your color palette of 3 to 4 colors.
While you may not be able to redesign your kitchen every year, you can definitely upgrade certain aspects to accommodate latest trends. A simple paint job on your cabinets or the addition of patterned wallpaper can do wonders to your space. Yes, trends do change every year and you may be hesitant to make a permanent change to your space based on something that changes so often, but small and subtle changes go a long way and are easily reversible too! So, make that change and see how it instantly elevates the aesthetic of your space!
Author Bio:
Isha Tandon has worked within the architecture and interior design industry as a flooring consultant expert – specializing in tiles, stones, and terrazzo. She has worked with Orientbell Limited, a leading tile manufacturer in India, as a product development manager in the design team and has recently joined the marketing team as their digital content expert. Her experience comes in handy in understanding the audience as she creates value-driven functional & informational content for the readers. She creates lifestyle pieces that focus on interior design products, trends, and processes. She loves to travel to historic places with rich architecture.
