The following information is gleaned from our experiences with recent customers as well as industry statistics.
Kitchen Design
- While traditional raised panel cabinet styles are still the most popular, the cleaner look of Shaker style has gained in popularity. Contemporary styles are also still favored by many clients.
- Many new layouts include extensions of the counter space to include built-in dining, either at counter height or dropped to normal table height. Often this is incorporated into the kitchen island.
- Manufactured quartz counters are proving to be a strong alternative to natural stone.
- Lighter natural finishes have been very popular over the last ten years along with light colored painted finishes. We are now seeing the selection of darker finishes on many of our current projects.
- Wine storage is another popular trend. Wine racks and chiller units still seem to be highly requested elements in many kitchens.
- French door refrigerators with bottom freezers are very popular with many homeowners but side by side units are still a mainstay of current appliance lines.
- Induction cooktops are another appliance that is gaining in popularity. These units remain cool to the touch and like a gas burner are instantly responsive to the controls. They can’t be beat for safety and energy efficiency.
- Speaking of cool to the touch, LED lights are the newest innovation in lighting design. In addition to being more energy efficient hey are excellent for directed task lighting and can be used in many applications.
- Another lighting trend is the use of rail lighting with decorative pendant fixtures over kitchen islands, dining areas, etc.
- Don’t forget to include a trash/recycling center in your new layout. There are several different pullout designs to choose from.
- Cork flooring is becoming a more popular choice in kitchens. It is environmentally friendly as it is produced from a renewable resource. It is easy to keep clean, is comfortable underfoot and is better for sound control compared to hard floors.
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Bathroom Design
- As in kitchens, Quartz countertops are gaining in popularity with natural granite and marble is still in strong demand.
- Ceramic or natural stone tiles are still the materials of choice for floors and walls.
- Vessel sinks make a big statement in a bathroom, however, many clients still prefer to use undermount sinks.
- Raised vanity counter heights help to accommodate taller users.
- Satin nickel finishes on faucets and other kitchen and bath hardware are currently the dominant choice but oil rubbed bronze is another trendy alternative.
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