REAL LIFE

Kitchen Trends To Move on From NOW!

BY MOLLY NICHOLAS

When it comes to decorating your kitchen, trends can come and go faster than just about any other trends. Below are some suggestions to consider if you are planning a kitchen remodel. Simply put, a heavily trafficked space deserves more than ho-hum cabinets or a lackluster backsplash. While it's all too tempting to update your kitchen with the latest culinary trends, it's important to exercise some restraint. Why? Design fads can come and go quickly. While design beauty rests in the eye of the beholder, understanding which trends are in (and out) will allow you to create a space you'll love for years to come. Below are suggestions on what to retire and what to replace it with.

White Kitchens — After years of trending, white kitchens have officially lost their sizzle. There is so much room to customize the space you spend the most time in so there is no need to spend it in what can become to feel like a sterile environment. Kitchens tend to be the heart of the home, and they should evoke happiness and joy." In addition, all-white kitchens are notoriously tough to maintain as every spot and spec is totally visible. For a space that's personable and forgiving of sauce spills and food crumbs, incorporate color. If you're not ready to commit to colored cabinets, introduce color in the backsplash.

Farmhouse Décor — Once upon a time, “farmhouse” was the design of the day. However, as coastal grandmother has risen in popularity, your country chic kitchen is due for a makeover. The good news is that revamping your farmhouse kitchen doesn't require a full-blown makeover. It's simply striking a balance between old and new. Create a space that incorporates classic and contemporary styles. Add light, and swap out black metals for gold and silver to create a new look while maintaining some of the style.

Colorful Appliances — A pop of color is a fail-safe way to add personality to your kitchen, but you should be mindful about where you place that bold hue. Colorful appliances can dictate your kitchen's overall design, but can also be very expensive to replace. For a timeless alternative, stick with neutral appliances. If you enjoy having color or patterns in the space, look to add pops of color with your table linens, dinnerware, kitchen towels, or even by adding pillows to each of your chairs.

Granite — If you're looking to swap out one element, replace the granite countertops. It has become an indicator of an aged kitchen. Instead, opt for quartz, concrete or marble. They may show wear over time, but that simply preserves the memories of cookie cutting and gingerbread houses made throughout the years. If you don't like the idea of a countertop with wear and tear, opt for a single-color granite or a honed finish.

Kitchens are the heart of the home as well as a key to resale when the time comes to move on. A small investment using the right trends can result in big returns in both satisfaction and future proceeds.