What is more important in a kitchen – how it looks or if it is functional? The correct answer is that both are important. But in today’s world, the look is becoming more important than pure functionality.
It starts with the appliances and cabinets. I say this somewhat in jest, but a custom range hood can cost the same as an inexpensive new car. This kind of investment sets the tone for the entire kitchen. It’s not enough to have top-of-the-line appliances, they must have cabinet fronts across them for a sleek and seamless finish.
Today’s high-end homes don’t only have a kitchen, but include a Messy Kitchen, otherwise known as a Scullery. Here, you will likely find a second refrigerator, sink, dishwasher – maybe even a built-in coffee maker that is pre-plumbed, and of course, ample cabinetry.
Don’t forget the pantry. They are no longer the size of a linen closet but are now spacious walk-in pantries with both open shelves, baskets, and extra cabinets.
Other items include the giant eight burner gas cook tops or ranges. Those that want it all require – a pizza oven, double wall ovens with features like an air fryer and steaming feature. An inconspicuous drawer microwave is a given! Take it to the next level with a lit wine cabinet that can host hundreds of bottles.
Cabinets are double stacked with glass fronts on the top layer. Add LED or puck lights to the upper cabinets and LED strip lights below for task lighting. And speaking of lighting – the pendant lights hanging over the island are truly the jewelry of the kitchen. Combine these with a kitchen island fully clad in cabinets and a quartz waterfall countertop and this becomes the centerpiece of the kitchen. Comfortable barstools, with a minimum of four, but preferably six, makes this space the heart of your home.
Quartz or quartzite is a must – and not just for the countertops. Running these products up from countertop to ceiling is beautiful and practical – but it’s also expensive. A less expensive alternative is to run a tile backsplash to the ceiling.
As far as sinks go, the farmhouse style is still trending and is available in a variety of finishes including concrete.
WHAT’S OUT?
Remember pot fillers? These seem to be losing favor among the high-end kitchen designers. Warming drawers seem to be out – at least in the south. Maybe because it’s too warm here already.
Not everyone has the space or means to have a totally high-end kitchen. But as you design a kitchen for your new home or plan a remodel, consider the look you are trying to achieve and incorporate the features that are most important to you. Flair and functionality in a kitchen do not have to compete, they can occur simultaneously, which will truly make the kitchen the favorite room in your home.
Adapted from Housing Design Matters Blog
