12 Hot Kitchen Trends Set to Sizzle in 2016
From thin benchtops to porcelain surfaces, mint and more, three designers share their predictions on the looks that will define 2016
The new year is fast approaching, which means it’s almost time to say farewell to the kitchen design trends that reigned supreme in 2015, and hello to the emerging (and revived) looks that will soon take their place in the spotlight. While many people are wary of following design trends when revamping their kitchen, as they’re worried the space will seem dated once the fads fade, it is possible to whip up a cooking zone that looks current but still has staying power. The key is to only adopt the trends you truly love and that reflect your tastes, otherwise you run the risk of being left with a kitchen that will fall out of favour quickly and that you’ll be itching to change stat. Putting your own spin on these of-the-moment looks will also ensure your culinary space offers enduring appeal and will serve you well for many years to come.
We recently quizzed three designers on the styles, hues, finishes and furnishings they predict will dominate in 2016, as well as how to work the trends into your kitchen. Take a look and see whether any of these ideas tickle your fancy and are the right fit for your cooking zone.
Find a kitchen designer and renovator in your area
We recently quizzed three designers on the styles, hues, finishes and furnishings they predict will dominate in 2016, as well as how to work the trends into your kitchen. Take a look and see whether any of these ideas tickle your fancy and are the right fit for your cooking zone.
Find a kitchen designer and renovator in your area
Want to work some high-shine style into your kitchen? “Look out for feature copper pendant lights that can be hung above an island bench in either a sleek modern or ornate traditional style,” suggests Ellard. You might also like to consider incorporating a copper rangehood and tapware, brass handles or a metallic-finish coloured glass splashback into your space, she adds.
More: Weave Metallics Into Your Kitchen
More: Weave Metallics Into Your Kitchen
2. Vintage flavour
According to kitchen designer Darren James of Darren James Interiors, designs that blend cool, contemporary style and vintage flair will be a key look that defines 2016. This is welcomed news for renovators who aren’t fans of ultra-sleek kitchens that make a strong design statement but don’t offer a whole lot of heart or a cosy, welcoming vibe. “We often look to the past for a sense of comfort, and we are seeing this trend reflected in interiors,” says James when explaining why the look will be widely embraced next year. “In kitchen design, we are seeing a resurgence of a kitchen that is timeless, functional and reflects true ‘home’ culture.”
This cool yet charming kitchen is a great example of the trend in action. Here, retro-style benchtop gadgets and vintage decor add charm and a nostalgic air to the contemporary cooking zone. They also help soften the cool, neutral colour scheme and clean lines of the copper pendant light, slimline stools and stainless steel appliances that are peppered around the space.
Add vintage nostalgia to your kitchen
According to kitchen designer Darren James of Darren James Interiors, designs that blend cool, contemporary style and vintage flair will be a key look that defines 2016. This is welcomed news for renovators who aren’t fans of ultra-sleek kitchens that make a strong design statement but don’t offer a whole lot of heart or a cosy, welcoming vibe. “We often look to the past for a sense of comfort, and we are seeing this trend reflected in interiors,” says James when explaining why the look will be widely embraced next year. “In kitchen design, we are seeing a resurgence of a kitchen that is timeless, functional and reflects true ‘home’ culture.”
This cool yet charming kitchen is a great example of the trend in action. Here, retro-style benchtop gadgets and vintage decor add charm and a nostalgic air to the contemporary cooking zone. They also help soften the cool, neutral colour scheme and clean lines of the copper pendant light, slimline stools and stainless steel appliances that are peppered around the space.
Add vintage nostalgia to your kitchen
3. Porcelain surfaces
“If you haven’t heard of porcelain surfaces, otherwise known in the industry as sintered compact surfaces, in 2016 you surely will,” predicts kitchen designer Graeme Metcalf of Dan Kitchens, the team behind the striking industrial-style cooking zone above. “Porcelain surfaces are made of a high-density, low-porosity ceramic. It is by no means a modern material, but it is a newcomer as a surfacing material in the kitchen.”
Island doors clad in 6mm ‘Iron Moss’: Neolith
“If you haven’t heard of porcelain surfaces, otherwise known in the industry as sintered compact surfaces, in 2016 you surely will,” predicts kitchen designer Graeme Metcalf of Dan Kitchens, the team behind the striking industrial-style cooking zone above. “Porcelain surfaces are made of a high-density, low-porosity ceramic. It is by no means a modern material, but it is a newcomer as a surfacing material in the kitchen.”
Island doors clad in 6mm ‘Iron Moss’: Neolith
While this game-changing material shares many characteristics with quartz-based engineered stone – a popular benchtop and splashback material – porcelain surfaces trump quartz-based stone when it comes to heat, flame and stain resistance, explains Metcalf. Another drawcard, he says, is that porcelain surfaces are manufactured in a variety of thicknesses (even as small as 3 millimetres thick). As a result, the versatile material is suitable for an array of applications, from benchtops to vertical surfaces such as drawers, splashbacks and even doors, like the rusted steel-look porcelain panels that line the island bench above.
Metcalf anticipates that this new kid on the kitchen surfaces block is set to become a popular benchtop material next year. “We’re particularly fond of one rusted iron finish that looks just like the real thing but, fortunately, without the risk of tetanus,” he says.
See more of this contemporary kitchen
Metcalf anticipates that this new kid on the kitchen surfaces block is set to become a popular benchtop material next year. “We’re particularly fond of one rusted iron finish that looks just like the real thing but, fortunately, without the risk of tetanus,” he says.
See more of this contemporary kitchen
4. Comfort is key
While some kitchen stools make a strong visual impact, they aren’t necessarily designed to be kind on your back or behind. Thankfully, James predicts that high-design style will take a backseat to comfort (though, not completely) when it comes to kitchen furniture and seating in 2016, a trend he noticed creeping in this year. Prepare to see more seating that features “soft, organic shapes and cosy fabrics, such as wool linens and organic cottons,” he says. Extra comfort will be added in the form of plush pillows and cushions, the designer adds.
Browse a wide selection of bar and kitchen stools
While some kitchen stools make a strong visual impact, they aren’t necessarily designed to be kind on your back or behind. Thankfully, James predicts that high-design style will take a backseat to comfort (though, not completely) when it comes to kitchen furniture and seating in 2016, a trend he noticed creeping in this year. Prepare to see more seating that features “soft, organic shapes and cosy fabrics, such as wool linens and organic cottons,” he says. Extra comfort will be added in the form of plush pillows and cushions, the designer adds.
Browse a wide selection of bar and kitchen stools
5. Texture, texture, texture
“I can see more and more texture being introduced in kitchen design in 2016,” predicts Ellard. “Homeowners have loved the pared-back minimalist white kitchen style for quite a while now, and I think it will still remain popular; however, the addition of textures adds depth and interest.”
“I can see more and more texture being introduced in kitchen design in 2016,” predicts Ellard. “Homeowners have loved the pared-back minimalist white kitchen style for quite a while now, and I think it will still remain popular; however, the addition of textures adds depth and interest.”
Expect to see a lot of textured laminate popping up in kitchens next year, especially on cabinet fronts, says Ellard. According to the designer, these tactile surfaces “will add a warm, natural and homely feeling to the kitchen, regardless of the colour and style.”
Incorporating a textured tiled or slump glass splashback into your kitchen is another easy (and popular) way to work the trend into your scheme, she adds.
See more of this eye-catching kitchen
Incorporating a textured tiled or slump glass splashback into your kitchen is another easy (and popular) way to work the trend into your scheme, she adds.
See more of this eye-catching kitchen
Metcalf agrees that tactile design elements will prove popular in 2016 – in fact, many of his clients are embracing the trend already. If you’re looking for other ways to incorporate texture into your kitchen, Metcalf recommends choosing a benchtop with a natural grain or pattern; alternating between coloured and timber veneer cabinet fronts; or opting for concrete, stone or timber flooring. Selecting timber or industrial-style stools will add another layer of tactile appeal to your scheme and help complete your richly textured look, he adds.
More: Texture-Rich Tricks You Can Reach Out and Touch
More: Texture-Rich Tricks You Can Reach Out and Touch
6. Neutrals and other subdued shades
After a year dominated by blues, bold, saturated colours and black, 2016 marks a return to soothing, versatile neutrals but not as we know them, says James, who designed the chic neutral kitchen pictured here. “Grey is still in, but it’s a lot warmer, creating an amazing palette of muted grey taupes,” he reveals. Meanwhile, at the other end of the neutral spectrum, browns are taking on a cooler tinge. Classic, crisp white will remain a go-to hue in the year ahead, James adds, noting that the introduction of white appliances is one factor that will ensure the colour remains in the spotlight next year.
More: How to Design a Neutral Room That Kicks Boring to the Curb
After a year dominated by blues, bold, saturated colours and black, 2016 marks a return to soothing, versatile neutrals but not as we know them, says James, who designed the chic neutral kitchen pictured here. “Grey is still in, but it’s a lot warmer, creating an amazing palette of muted grey taupes,” he reveals. Meanwhile, at the other end of the neutral spectrum, browns are taking on a cooler tinge. Classic, crisp white will remain a go-to hue in the year ahead, James adds, noting that the introduction of white appliances is one factor that will ensure the colour remains in the spotlight next year.
More: How to Design a Neutral Room That Kicks Boring to the Curb
What else is on the horizon colourwise in 2016? James predicts that petrol or peacock – a rich, dramatic blue-green hue – will be another trending tone in the year ahead. Pair it with crisp white and timber tones for a fresh look that dazzles; or take colour cues from this chic kitchen and team it with moodier hues for an edgier, more intimate vibe.
7. Geometric motifs
“I expect to see more geometric patterns being introduced in kitchens in 2016, particularly on splashbacks,” reveals Ellard. “Geometric shapes add an interesting dimension to a space and can be adapted to suit both contemporary- and traditional-style spaces.”
“Look out for hexagonal-shaped wall and floor tiles; rectangular tiles arranged in a herringbone pattern; and also square tiles with geometric patterns,” she adds.
More: How to Go Geometric Without Going Overboard
“I expect to see more geometric patterns being introduced in kitchens in 2016, particularly on splashbacks,” reveals Ellard. “Geometric shapes add an interesting dimension to a space and can be adapted to suit both contemporary- and traditional-style spaces.”
“Look out for hexagonal-shaped wall and floor tiles; rectangular tiles arranged in a herringbone pattern; and also square tiles with geometric patterns,” she adds.
More: How to Go Geometric Without Going Overboard
8. Engineered materials that (almost) rival the real thing
If you don’t have the budget for luxe natural materials like a marble benchtop or solid timber cabinetry, don’t be too disheartened. According to Metcalf, engineered materials are better and more realistic than ever before, which is why he predicts they’ll enjoy some well-deserved time in the spotlight next year.
“In the past, manufactured materials looked fake, with no variety in appearance,” the designer explains. “What we are seeing now and into 2016 is a different ball game. In a process that no doubt has taken many years, producers of engineered stone, board and tiles are releasing products that in some instances look as good as their natural counterpart.”
“However,” he adds, “when paired with properties like superior durability, ease of maintenance, size and cost effectiveness, it is little wonder the natural reproductions are getting popular with designers and clients alike.”
Benchtop in ‘Perlino’ quartz: Compac
If you don’t have the budget for luxe natural materials like a marble benchtop or solid timber cabinetry, don’t be too disheartened. According to Metcalf, engineered materials are better and more realistic than ever before, which is why he predicts they’ll enjoy some well-deserved time in the spotlight next year.
“In the past, manufactured materials looked fake, with no variety in appearance,” the designer explains. “What we are seeing now and into 2016 is a different ball game. In a process that no doubt has taken many years, producers of engineered stone, board and tiles are releasing products that in some instances look as good as their natural counterpart.”
“However,” he adds, “when paired with properties like superior durability, ease of maintenance, size and cost effectiveness, it is little wonder the natural reproductions are getting popular with designers and clients alike.”
Benchtop in ‘Perlino’ quartz: Compac
According to Metcalf, engineered stone that replicates the look of marble is a great (and very practical) choice for benchtops and splashbacks, two surfaces he says are “prone to high wear and staining.” Meanwhile, if you’re in the process of selecting cabinetry materials, he recommends choosing lacquered imitation wood grain melamine boards (as seen in this kitchen), which are a “cost-effective alternative for adding texture to doors and drawers.”
When it comes to flooring, premium stone- and timber-look vinyl floor tiles are “ideal for the often wet and messy kitchen environment,” he adds.
When it comes to flooring, premium stone- and timber-look vinyl floor tiles are “ideal for the often wet and messy kitchen environment,” he adds.
9. Fresh mint
Another shade that will make a splash next year is mint, according to Ellard. While you may see the fresh, soothing hue on some kitchen cabinets, she predicts the tone will be predominantly used as an accent colour, so expect to see it pop up on accessories and possibly even island feature panels and open shelves.
“Mint is a fresh and crisp-looking colour that doesn’t overpower, so it’s not a colour you are likely to tire of easily,” advises Ellard. “If you are afraid to add colour to your kitchen, then a great way to start is by using colourful accessories such as bar stools, canisters displayed on the bench or even on your kitchen splashback.”
See more of this minty fresh kitchen
Another shade that will make a splash next year is mint, according to Ellard. While you may see the fresh, soothing hue on some kitchen cabinets, she predicts the tone will be predominantly used as an accent colour, so expect to see it pop up on accessories and possibly even island feature panels and open shelves.
“Mint is a fresh and crisp-looking colour that doesn’t overpower, so it’s not a colour you are likely to tire of easily,” advises Ellard. “If you are afraid to add colour to your kitchen, then a great way to start is by using colourful accessories such as bar stools, canisters displayed on the bench or even on your kitchen splashback.”
See more of this minty fresh kitchen
10. Thin benchtops
According to James, it’s time to say goodbye to thick, chunky counters, and hello to slender, barely-there benchtops. So, exactly how slim are we talking? “The thinner, the better,” says the Brisbane designer, who notes that thanks to new technology and product developments, benchtops are now available in slabs as small as 3 millimetres thick. This growing (or shrinking) trend has been building momentum over the past year and will continue to do so in 2016, explains James, partly due to the fact that kitchen designs are “[moving] toward more refined detail, allowing the texture of the products themselves to tell the story.”
What kitchen benchtop is right for you?
According to James, it’s time to say goodbye to thick, chunky counters, and hello to slender, barely-there benchtops. So, exactly how slim are we talking? “The thinner, the better,” says the Brisbane designer, who notes that thanks to new technology and product developments, benchtops are now available in slabs as small as 3 millimetres thick. This growing (or shrinking) trend has been building momentum over the past year and will continue to do so in 2016, explains James, partly due to the fact that kitchen designs are “[moving] toward more refined detail, allowing the texture of the products themselves to tell the story.”
What kitchen benchtop is right for you?
11. It’s only natural
“This trend is a direct reflection of a society that wants to take a step back and slow things down,” explains James. “The more high-tech we become, the more we want to surround ourselves with textures and objects that connect us with nature. And in times of uncertainty and mistrust, we are seeking things that are authentic and real.”
Rustic wood, concrete and natural stone are a few materials you might like to consider if you’re thinking about trying this earthy and timeless look at home. However, look beyond these usual suspects, too. Bamboo, river rock, oxidised metals and natural fibres like rattan, linen and jute are other great options that will infuse your kitchen with a pleasing, natural-inspired look, while adding extra visual and tactile interest to your scheme.
More: Warm Up Your House With Materials Provided by Mother Nature
“This trend is a direct reflection of a society that wants to take a step back and slow things down,” explains James. “The more high-tech we become, the more we want to surround ourselves with textures and objects that connect us with nature. And in times of uncertainty and mistrust, we are seeking things that are authentic and real.”
Rustic wood, concrete and natural stone are a few materials you might like to consider if you’re thinking about trying this earthy and timeless look at home. However, look beyond these usual suspects, too. Bamboo, river rock, oxidised metals and natural fibres like rattan, linen and jute are other great options that will infuse your kitchen with a pleasing, natural-inspired look, while adding extra visual and tactile interest to your scheme.
More: Warm Up Your House With Materials Provided by Mother Nature
James also recommends adding greenery – from moss to plants, herbs and even grass (yes, grass!) – to your culinary zone to enhance its earthy, organic feel.
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How to keep your house plants happy and healthy
12. All about timber
“Timber is certainly the hero in this natural movement,” James explains, who notes that walnut tones and blonde oaks are woods that will be trending in 2016. To give your organic-inspired scheme an earthier and more authentic feel, the Brisbane designer suggests introducing timber in its rawest form to your space – think live edge slabs, tree stump stools or pendant lights made from tree branches.
View popular kitchen design photos
TELL US
Do you love or loathe these trends? Which ones would you consider incorporating into your kitchen? Share your thoughts in the Comments.
“Timber is certainly the hero in this natural movement,” James explains, who notes that walnut tones and blonde oaks are woods that will be trending in 2016. To give your organic-inspired scheme an earthier and more authentic feel, the Brisbane designer suggests introducing timber in its rawest form to your space – think live edge slabs, tree stump stools or pendant lights made from tree branches.
View popular kitchen design photos
TELL US
Do you love or loathe these trends? Which ones would you consider incorporating into your kitchen? Share your thoughts in the Comments.
Metals and metallics have been hugely popular over the past few years and it looks like our love affair with chic finishes and hues isn’t over just yet, says interior designer Anne Ellard of Anne Ellard Design. The Queensland designer predicts that warmer metallics like brass, gold and copper will continue to outshine cooler metals such as silver and stainless steel in the kitchen next year, as they “add a sophisticated warmth to a space.”