From the layout to the finishes, this year is a turning point for kitchen design. Here, we’ve rounded up the biggest trends designers expect to see in kitchen styles for 2021. If you’re hunting for inspiration for that big kitchen project, read on. “After years of bright, white kitchens being the norm, cabinets and countertops are going dark,” she says. “I’m seeing tons of beautiful black marble, earthy walnut, and midnight greens.” “I recently helped a client renovate his kitchen from a sad and dated state to something that was completely transformative and functional, yet affordable,” he says. “The key was to keep the charm, such as the Dutch door that we gave a fresh coat of paint.” Instead of getting rid of your charming vintage features, find a way to update them and keep them in your space. Photography: Matti Gresham “There has been a major decluttering/excess-purging movement for homeowners in the last year,” she says. “People were once afraid of the loss of storage that open shelving seemed to bring, but they’ve now come to see how this design element actually marries beauty and function.” Open shelving is a great way to force yourself to declutter and keep only the necessities in your kitchen. Photography: Matti Gresham Photography: Lauren Miller If you’re not ready to commit to an entirely brown or wood kitchen, consider a natural wood island, or focus just on the lower cabinets to create a two-tone look instead. If you have exposed shelving, we love propping art up and leaning it against the wall for a more casual, laid-back vibe. We predict to see a return of the formal dining room this year. Though open-concept homes work for many families, those who find themselves spending more and more time at home may want more dedicated spaces instead. If you’re into the vintage look, you can find modern appliances designed to appear retro. This is a fun way to add personality to your space without giving up the modern luxuries that smart appliances offer.
