The way we cook and what we use our kitchens for changes greatly over time, and may even change significantly from year to year. As just one example, a few decades ago buyers wanted a kitchen that was set apart from the rest of the main floor where they could prepare meals in privacy and peace. Then over the course of the last 2-3 decades, the open floor plan took over and the kitchen became part of the living area as a whole. Other significant changes over time have included the addition of the walk-in pantry and the transition in appliance colors. What are buyers looking for in a kitchen now? Here are a few of the current must-haves in kitchens!
Stainless Steel is Still on Top
If you are going to remodel your kitchen with a future return on your investment in mind, stick to the current favorites in appliances – stainless steel. This is true whether you are remodeling to sell or just replacing an aging refrigerator or dishwasher. Buyers like to see a matching set of stainless steel, energy-efficient appliances when they view a home. If however you are intent on stepping outside the stainless steel comfort zone, a high-end remodel that includes Sub-Zero or GE Monogram pieces with custom cabinetry fronts is another option buyers love. These appliance fronts allow them to fade seamlessly into the design. of your kitchen.
The Deep Sink
Also known as a farmhouse sink, the deep sink was one of the most popular trends in kitchens for the last several years, and the idea seems to be hanging on. If you plan to incorporate this upgrade into your own kitchen remodel, make sure that the look matches the overall design of your kitchen. A farmhouse sink may be handy, but if the rest of your kitchen design is very modern and industrial, it may be a distracting exception. Farmhouse design is very distinct, often including wooden and cast iron elements in chairs and furniture, so plan your remodel accordingly.
The Most Important Item – The Island!
Kitchen islands have been popular in kitchens for quite awhile now, adding workspace for cooking, and providing an additional seating area for entertaining. For many families, the island has become the center of family life, where meals are eaten, homework is done and where friends like to gather. Nearly two-thirds of renovated kitchens include an island, according to a recent survey from design and remodeling site Houzz.
While kitchen islands are nothing new, their look and design has evolved over time. These days, many homeowners are making them into statement pieces, contrasting the colors of the island’s cabinets with the cabinets against the walls of the kitchen. Black butcher tops and built-in appliances such as microwaves, dishwashers, garbage disposals, and cooktops are becoming popular parts of the island, and with these new components, islands are growing in size, often becoming the focal point of the kitchen.
Read on for more of our blogs about kitchens!