The key trends in the kitchen in 2011
Guide to what is fashionable in kitchen design for 2011
If you’re planning a new kitchen in 2011, doing some research on kitchen design trends is the key to making sure you’ll be the envy and trendsetter of all your friends and family.
Of course, there are different kitchen trends depending on what style of cooking you like, but whether your style is contemporary, modern, classic, or traditional, some key trends remain the same.
“When planning a new kitchen in 2011, the key areas to focus on are door design, colour, texture, shape and materials”
Door design: In recent years, kitchen door designs have become much simpler. For contemporary kitchens, the trend has moved towards flat-panel doors with no trim. An extension of this is the move towards handleless doors, and this will continue in 2011 with many more homeowners choosing handleless kitchens. Even with classic or traditional kitchen styles, door designs are simpler than before, and many designers use shaker-style doors, even with framed kitchens. This gives off a very classic tailored look.
What about the colour? Well, what we’re seeing is that the range of colors now being offered in kitchens has grown tremendously over the last year. Designers and homeowners are getting more adventurous when choosing cabinet colors and many are now opting for subtle colors, especially in contemporary and modern designs. Subtle colors can be in the way of glossy or matte doors in a modern kitchen or even the warm textures of wood. Of course, mixing paint colors and wood textures is a massive trend right now and it will only grow in popularity. For classic and traditional kitchen styles, off-white painted kitchens are still popular, but other, bolder colors are emerging, especially when mixed with softer colors. For solid wood kitchens, oak and walnut will remain as popular as ever.
Texture: Depending on the kitchen style you choose, the texture of the kitchen finish will come into play. Let’s say your choice is a contemporary kitchen, then you’ll be able to choose between a glossy or matte finish. High gloss kitchens are still very popular but more matt finishes are expected in 2011. High gloss kitchens are easy to clean but can show marks and fingerprints quite easily. Matte finishes are easy to maintain, but don’t show as many marks as high-gloss ones.
Shape: What we really mean here is the use of curves or straight lines in kitchen design. Curves are most significant in classic and traditional kitchens, where softer edges are the key trend. Curves are also popular in modern-style kitchens, while for a contemporary look, sleek, clean lines will continue to be in style. Contemporary kitchens need clean lines to set themselves apart from even modern kitchens, with slim countertops and end panels adding that finishing touch.
Materials: As we all know, there has been a significant movement towards eco-friendly and reclaimed materials in recent years. Expect to see reclaimed wood used as a feature, especially in high-end kitchens, even in modern, contemporary kitchens to add an earthy feel.
When it comes to countertops, there’s a major shift towards eco-friendly materials, with quartz and recycled glass being used to wonderful effects.
Key trends by style
Contemporary
Straight lines
Slimline countertops and end panels
Flat Panel Doors without Handles
Matte or gloss painted finish mixed with wood grain
Modern
Curved ends or straight lines according to taste
Matte or gloss finish mixed with wood grain
Flat panel or shaker style door designs
classic
Curved ends for a smoother look
Popular Painted Kitchens or Mixture of Paint and Solid Wood
Two-Tone Kitchens – Subtle paint color mixed with a touch of bolder paint or wood on items like the island unit or dresser
Traditional
simpler door styles
Framed doors are popular in high-end kitchens.
Mix paint with solid wood
For solid woods, try walnut or oak
For painted kitchens, try subtle paints mixed with a stronger color.
Let’s hope this guide helps you achieve your dream kitchen in 2011!
