Designing a layout for flow and function
For many families, the kitchen is the hub of the home, so it is important to acknowledge how the space impacts adjacent rooms and traffic flow. New design features help to customize your space, including the ability to accommodate varying levels of mobility. Technology also comes to the kitchen, bringing energy saving strategies with it.
The home of the future
Current trends indicate that, by 2015, new homes will be smaller, greener and offer more casual living space. Open floor plans satisfy a desire for gathering and connecting, and these spaces transition easily for multi-purpose uses – integrating kitchen, dining and living functions.
- Dedicated rooms are now devoted to specialized needs such as office, exercise or crafts
- Transforming an existing space with the removal of a wall or other open-floor plan strategy may be preferred over significant additions
- Trends toward eco-friendly architecture are blending outdoor spaces with the overall home design
- Glass walls, sliding doors, and other transparent features open the home to "patio" or "garden" rooms
- Home management is facilitated by utilizing a service entry that features a message center with key racks, mail slots and individual lockers for each family member
Making your home accessibles
It is expected that by 2015, Inclusive Design features including zero-step entries and showers, widened door and hallways, multi-level cabinets and non-slip flooring will be commonplace in the average home. These features will be very important for people who choose to “age in place,” preferring to remain at home rather than move to a nursing or retirement community, as well as for families that blend multiple generations under one roof.
What's hot in today's kitchen?
Many new kitchens feature a streamlined look, with large window expanses with fewer wall cabinets.
- Open shelving is popular for those who want items within reach and can keep it neat
- Professional-style appliances such as free-standing stainless steel gas ranges, the trend for years, are being challenged by sleek induction cook tops paired with double wall ovens
- Under-the-counter options are increasingly prominent, with drawers that double as refrigerators, wine storage and even a pullout microwave
- For faucets, the convenience of a pullout model is a desired feature, as are pot fillers
- Brushed nickel is the leading finish option, followed by pewter, polished chrome and oil-rubbed bronze colorations
- French door and bottom freezer drawer refrigerator models continue to dominate the market
- With healthy living being a strong trend, more kitchens are featuring steam ovens, induction cooking and warming drawers to keep nutritious dinners ready for active family members
Going green and integrating technology
Energy Star rated appliances are key - compare the operational cost savings that these appliances offer to traditional models for a true picture of how going green can save you money. Today’s smart home features Wi-Fi enabled appliances that relay maintenance information to both the home owner and the manufacturer and green technologies throughout the home design including low-E windows, dual flush toilets and low-flow faucets.
Looking for new kitchen cabinet ideas?
Call for a Free Estimate!
Home Base Improvement & Construction
Diamond Cabinet Installers
4141 Dix Rd. Lincoln Park, MI 48146
t:313.382.3131
