Last year saw extravagant Art Deco, over-the-top maximalism, and even Barbiecore all have their day in the sun, but 2024 promises a calmer, more subdued approach to kitchen design. As creativity increases, the kitchen is becoming increasingly important as a place to foster connections with family and friends.
In other words, homeowners want their space to feel like a safe haven. “In 2024, 'joie de vivre' will be high on the list of design priorities,” says Kelly Kelly, his CEO and creative director at Kelly Kelly Studio. “People are increasingly choosing multipurpose spaces that can be adapted to a variety of functions, such as kitchen islands that integrate seating and storage to create a multifunctional hub for cooking, eating and socializing.”
Whether you're planning a new home or sprucing up your cooking space with fresh paint on your cabinets, you can incorporate many of these trends into your design plans. Most of the top kitchen trends for 2024 will make life in the kitchen easier, more streamlined, and less confusing. After the uncertainty of the past few years, we all deserve a space that takes our minds off of reality while reflecting a stylish palette of beautiful design elements. Here's what's going to be popular in the year ahead, according to experts.
layered low-key lighting
“The hottest trend in kitchen lighting is layering to create a versatile atmosphere,” says Kelly. “In kitchen islands and dining areas, we're seeing a trend away from bold statement pendant lights in favor of integrated under-cabinet and toe-kick lighting that add functionality and shine.”
Sconces are another lighting trend that combines style and practicality. “Bright overhead recessed lighting can cause glare on kitchen work surfaces,” says Ashley Makuga, principal designer at Collected Interiors. “We love installing sconces in the kitchen because they add a layer of lower light and look so beautiful when dimmed after the kitchen is finally closed in the evening.”
Makuga agrees that subtle supplemental lighting is essential. “Under-cabinet lighting allows for both functional and aesthetic lighting, but because it's hidden, it feels a little mysterious as to where the light is coming from.” Makuga also recommends a beautiful backsplash or range hood. We predict that we will see more use of architectural lighting, such as wall washes, to highlight key areas of design detail, such as:
I definitely don't like flashy lighting. “No more lighting that overwhelms your kitchen,” says Shelby Van Daly, founder and lead designer of Daly Home. “It's simple and has lighting that allows you to see the entire kitchen.”
warm rich colors
Monochromatic, all-white kitchens aren't as popular as they once were. “We're seeing a resurgence of dramatic color tones that offer strong contrasts, such as combinations of warm, saturated hues and muted neutrals,” says Kelly. In addition to blues and greens, rich browns, smoky blues, reds and purples take center stage, imbuing the kitchen with a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Mixing light or dark stained wood with saturated colors also works well. “I think the balance between paint and wood cabinets is very important,” says Makuga. “Color adds character and charm to a space, and stained wood adds warmth and depth to a space.”
But bolder colors are starting to appear in the kitchen. “Burgundy and orange hues are creeping into the kitchen,” says Bethany Adams, president of Bethany Adams Interiors. “It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're looking for a cozy kitchen, there's no better palette.” If you want to start small, just stain or paint the cabinet knobs, he says. suggests Van Daley. “This creates a very attractive look in the kitchen.”
Matte black and titanium finishes are becoming increasingly popular. On the other hand, brass remains popular, especially for its vintage look, says Laura Williams, lead designer at ATX Interior Design.
Hydrama marble and stone
Natural materials such as marble are common for counters and flooring. “White marble has been considered a risky material choice for countertops in recent years because it is prone to staining and chipping,” says Williams. “But homeowners are taking risks because of their natural masterful veins and movement. They are more accepting of the 'imperfections' created by daily use and showing their 'life stories' on the surface.” can do. ”
The rustic colors and vivid striped patterns of quartzite are also popular. “Using these types of materials not only provides a connection to the beauty of the natural world, but also evokes a sense of sanctuary and harmony within the home,” says Makuga.
Many homeowners are prioritizing sustainability and low-maintenance materials. “Clients are embracing varieties that resemble natural stone with products such as the Silestone Le Chic collection and his Dekton Pietra Kode collection,” says Kelly.
Butler's pantry and plenty of storage
Indeed, you can never have too much storage space in any room, especially in the kitchen. “The butler's pantry continues to be the most popular addition to the kitchen,” says Adams. “With dedicated space for storing china and sometimes a wet bar, these kitchen annexes are the pinnacle of luxury living.”
It is also important to make effective use of the storage space in your kitchen. “Currently, more than ever, clients are looking for functional kitchens, so we're using more drawer inserts and drawers to create organization that didn't exist before.” Daly says.
Additionally, homeowners are exploring innovative layouts, such as “hidden” kitchen and pantry walls, which allow cooking areas to be stored away when not in use and maintain a clean, minimalist look. Kelly says. A scullery or dirty kitchen also provides practical space for storage, preparation, and cleanup to maximize cooking efficiency.
Outdoor kitchen and connection with nature
Another trend that continues to mature is the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. “The client wanted a seamless transition to the outdoors using large sliding doors, similar materials, and a complementary color palette so family and friends could enjoy fresh air while cooking and entertaining,” Kelly said. says.
Indoors, “wellness corners'' are increasingly being set up. These spaces have water filtration systems, such as Zip Water Hydrotap, and dedicated green space for growing fresh herbs and sprouting microgreens, Kelly says. These trends combine health-conscious living with the power of plants and biophilic design.
IH cooker
Jewelry designer Matthew Harris's Lisbon apartment has a calming kitchen with a sleek gas-free cooktop.
Induction cooking has been popular in Europe for decades and is becoming increasingly common in the United States, a trend spurred by last year's debate over the safety of gas stoves. “Induction cooking produces less smoke than gas cooking, so you don't really need a huge extractor fan or fume hood,” says Adams. “This opens up more options in terms of recirculating downdrafts or omitting the hood in older homes that already have plenty of airflow.”
Traditional brands like La Cornue also make induction ranges, so there's a choice to suit every kitchen style. “If a Chanel handbag came with a kitchen appliance, it would be the La Cornue series,” says Makuga. On the other hand, outdated and bulky home appliances are steadily becoming obsolete. Brands such as Hestan reflect the desire for high-performance smart appliances that blend seamlessly into design, while offering cutting-edge functionality and energy efficiency, Kelly says.
Shared eat-in kitchen
Who would have thought that simple kitchen tables would become a design trend? But Makuga says the rumors are true. “Families are increasingly centering their activities in the kitchen, relaxing as much as cooking.” The client wants a kitchen layout that allows children and guests to come, sit, and stay for a while. For example, the island must be able to accommodate the whole family, and the stools at the counter must be comfortable.
Even better, incorporate a kitchen table into the space. Not just sitting next to someone, but sitting across the table creates a community. “In a world full of computer screens, what we probably all crave is direct eye contact,” says Makuga, a need that doesn't go out of style.
Arricca Elin SanSone writes about health and lifestyle topics such as prevention, country living, and Women's Day. She has a passion for gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with her loved ones and dogs.
