Janet Cook
What are the current kitchen remodeling design trends? Houzz, an online home improvement resource, did a 2021 survey of 75,470 users to find out if they had home renovation plans. Forty-eight percent of them were in the process of planning or remodeling their U.S. home. They found that since they are spending more time at home, the condition and functionality of the home is in focus. More people are using professionals to help them design to make their homes work better for their needs. Here are the 10 top kitchen remodeling trends:
* Homeowners are less likely to create a fully open concept to the kitchen, but want some separation from its activity, noise. More meals are being cooked at home, while more are working or going to school from home.
* Growing in popularity is connecting the kitchen to the outdoors via double doors or a row of doors (56%).
* Forty-four percent change the kitchen layout, with 38% having an L-shape, and 31% a U-shape kitchen.
* Nearly all (94%) want to improve and increase cabinet storage, with the majority (63%) replacing the cabinets. Thirteen percent are adding a walk-in pantry. The top cabinet color choices are white (41%), medium wood tones (13%), and gray (10%).
* Kitchen islands are popular (55% add or renovate one) and are often chosen in a contrasting color such as blue (27%), gray (20%), or a wood stain.
* The top seven most popular upgraded features are countertops, backsplash, sinks, faucets, light fixtures, flooring, and appliances.
* Backsplashes are covering more of the wall, extending upward for an accent.
* Homeowners are selecting high-tech for more than half of the faucets and a third of the appliances.
* Neutrals are also trending on the walls. Most specified is gray, then white, and beige. Though many pick white for the backsplash (37%), nearly one in five bring in color with their backsplash.
* Hardwood floors have dropped to second place behind ceramic or porcelain.
The kitchen is the main event, adding value to daily living.
Happy kitchen remodeling! Happy New Year!
Janet Cook, certified aging in place specialist, president of Cook Remodeling (celebrating their 42nd year), invites you to check out their website for more ideas and photos.