The latest trends in kitchen design recognize that your kitchen is not just a room where meals are prepared. The kitchen is the gathering place--the real family room. The walls between the kitchen, dining room and family room are coming down. And that trend is here to stay.
Kitchen cabinetry is experiencing a metamorphosis. It's getting to look more like fine furniture than mere storage space. This doesn't mean you need to rip out the cabinets you already have. Consider painting them instead. Dark, high-gloss stains can show off gorgeous hardware. If you have glass-fronted cabinets, consider painting the shelves and the back of your cabinets a rich or vibrant hue. Choose an accent color for a kitchen island or separate section of cabinets. If you are replacing your cabinets, consider changing it all to eco-friendly materials such as sustainable bamboo or wheat board.
Who says kitchen hardware has to come from the hardware store? Shop antique stores and flea markets for furniture handles and knobs, or go online to www.anthropologie.com for some cool ideas. Your cabinets can take on a whole new look with the right accessories.
Not only is cabinetry becoming furniture, but kitchen countertops are becoming dining tables with sleek marble and granite surfaces. Beautiful stone can turn your countertop into a work of art. For a sleek, professional look, continue the stone surface on your backspash with decorative mosaic tile.
Today's best kitchens have layers of lights. While you need good task lighting, also add pendants or a chandelier over your island and install some under and over cabinet accent lights. Very important, and one of the things that is easily overlooked is having dimmers on all your lighting. In fact, you should have dimmers for every overhead light in the house!
While stainless steel appliances continue to be popular, many kitchen designers are opting for wood fronts on appliances that match the rest of the cabinetry for an integrated, built-in look.
Centuries ago a fireplace in the kitchen was a necessity. The hearths of today are not only creating a cozy nook for a cup of tea, but they are now sporting the latest technology, such as a flat-screen TV so you can watch "Barefoot Contessa" while you cook.
If your budget doesn't allow for a "sky's the limit" kitchen renovation, consider splurging on one big-ticket item like a granite countertop, farmhouse sink, or a professional stove. A scene-stealer like that will allow you to save on other items without losing design impact.
All information is believed to be reliable, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified with a real estate professional. CENTURY 21 Lakeside Realty Is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® Equal Housing Opportunity.