Planning on a kitchen renovation in 2019? There’s never been a better time to put your own creative mark on, let’s face it, the beating heart of any home.
A new kitchen can add unparalleled value to a home as well as potentially giving new life to the whole house.
And these days it’s easier than ever to get the kitchen of your dreams without having to break the bank, or stick to an all-white colour scheme.
From flatpack to eco-friendly, here are the biggest trends for kitchens in 2019 from the experts.
1. Modern kitchen layouts
Whether you’re cooking with kids, your partner or entertaining guests, a kitchen layout that facilitates the way you use your kitchen – and the food you’re cooking in 2019 – is critical, explains renovation expert Richard Armstrong from The Makeover Group.
When deciding on the layout of the space it’s best to keep in mind the way you want the room to be used.
Are you an entertainer? Consider an island bench that people can gather around.
If you need to maximise space then consider where cupboards are placed so that two or more people can cook in the kitchen together.
“Kitchens are often described as the hub of your home and your design should reflect this,” Richard adds.
2. Open shelving
Open shelving is a trend which started in recent years and it’s showing no signs of bowing out according to countless design blogs and magazines.
This style of shelving is a great way to show off your most beautiful homewares, pretty plates and mugs, as well as any gorgeous decorations which make the space unique to you.
3. Matte black
From fittings to surfaces, matte black is definitely still being embraced by the design community with gusto.
With better quality materials coming on the market all the time it’s still a great tone to consider for your kitchen.
4. New kitchen technology
Ever wanted to get a start on dinner while you’re still at work? Richard says there’s no time like 2019 to turn smart kitchen dreams into reality.
“Automated self-cleaning ovens, combination ovens (steam/conventional/microwave), more efficient dishwashers, in-situ coffee machines for your household barista – new technologies just keep coming in 2019!”
Richard suggests as part of your kitchen planning, visit a kitchen appliances showroom to see the latest technology. And be sure to ask about next-generation technology so you can future-proof your home.
5. Bright colours
Textures and colours to deliver rich user experiences will ensure your kitchen becomes a ‘living space’ rather than just the room in which you prepare food.
Show a little flair – textured timber finishes, crafted cladding, two-tone cabinetry and natural stone can all deliver a visual vibrancy missing from older style kitchens.
6. Flatpack elements
Budget-friendly flatpack kitchens have come a long way and remain a popular choice for kitchen renovations in 2019.
With highly customised elements such as statement tapware and coloured cabinets, the modern-day flatpack kitchen looks anything but cheap.
What’s even better is that given their modular nature, flatpack elements can be personalised easily with the planning tools provided by stores like IKEA, Bunnings and Freedom.
7. Hidden storage
If you’ve Marie Kondo’d your life – or even if you haven’t – hidden storage will make your kitchen a much calmer space to be. Not seeing all that clutter is surely going to spark plenty of joy.
In 2019 hidden storage is being considered even earlier in the design process, making the end result look much more seamless.
8. Integrated appliances
The trend of the anti-kitchen is even stronger this year with butler’s pantries, integrated appliances and non-kitchen elements claiming the space as an entertainer’s area rather than purely a room for cooking.
9. Sustainability
While sustainability is never just a trend, in 2019 kitchens will become more eco-friendly than ever before – everything from materials and appliances to layout and waste management will be considered.
Sustainability has become an integral consideration for anyone looking to renovate their kitchen.
10. Modern kitchen lighting
This year’s kitchens will embrace modern lighting systems, says Richard: “Now you can illuminate workspaces without ever looking at a harsh light.”
“Under and over-bench lighting provides warmth and comfort, delivering functionality without the glare.
“If you’d like to light up your kitchen for cleaning, a central lighting system can be used for that specific time.”
This article was originally published as 10 kitchen trends for 2019 to inspire by www.realestate.com.au and written by Erinna Giblin