Trend Watch: 13 Kitchen Looks Expected to Be Big in 2015
Three designers share their thoughts on what looks, finishes and design elements will be trending in the year ahead
Have you been toying with the idea of revamping your kitchen over the past year or so, and think that 2015 may just be the perfect time to take the plunge? If so, before you start searching for a design professional to tackle the project for you, it’s important to sit down and do your homework – think about what you need, how you can improve your current kitchen set-up, as well as what you want the space to look and feel like. It’s also definitely worth reading up on emerging kitchen trends, which may just provide a spark of inspiration and, ultimately, influence the design of your new cooking zone.
While we can’t write your dream kitchen wish list for you, we can, however, lend a hand by compiling a list of design trends that are on the rise … which is exactly what we’ve done below. We recently caught up with three designers, who each provided a shortlist of kitchen design and decorating ideas they believe will be the biggest trends of 2015, and also shared their expert advice on how you can incorporate these ideas into your own space. Aren’t we (okay, they…) helpful?
View our gallery of beautiful kitchens
While we can’t write your dream kitchen wish list for you, we can, however, lend a hand by compiling a list of design trends that are on the rise … which is exactly what we’ve done below. We recently caught up with three designers, who each provided a shortlist of kitchen design and decorating ideas they believe will be the biggest trends of 2015, and also shared their expert advice on how you can incorporate these ideas into your own space. Aren’t we (okay, they…) helpful?
View our gallery of beautiful kitchens
2. Airy (and user-friendly), open shelving
“We are seeing a trend towards using open shelving as a practical solution for the kitchen space, rather than simply for display,” says kitchen designer Kesha Pillay of Art of Kitchens. “Open shelving personalises the space, making it feel lived in and warm, while keeping the kitchen functional and easy to use.”
“Of course, there are always some things that you don’t want displayed, and combining open shelf cabinets and cabinets allows you to still hide things, if necessary,” she adds.
“We are seeing a trend towards using open shelving as a practical solution for the kitchen space, rather than simply for display,” says kitchen designer Kesha Pillay of Art of Kitchens. “Open shelving personalises the space, making it feel lived in and warm, while keeping the kitchen functional and easy to use.”
“Of course, there are always some things that you don’t want displayed, and combining open shelf cabinets and cabinets allows you to still hide things, if necessary,” she adds.
3. Wallpaper that wows
Want to add interest and character to your cooking zone? Incorporating wallpaper – a major trend in 2015, according to kitchen and bathroom designer Lee Hardcastle – into the design of your new kitchen is the perfect solution. “Wallpaper provides an easy way to add visual impact, even in small amounts,” he explains. “Wallpaper gives you the control of complementing the architectural elements throughout the kitchen or adding a beautiful contrast to an otherwise simple colour palette.”
And it won’t just be used to dress up plain walls either; Hardcastle predicts that next year we’ll also be seeing wallpaper being used in unexpected ways and spaces, such as on ceilings to create a striking feature.
Want to add interest and character to your cooking zone? Incorporating wallpaper – a major trend in 2015, according to kitchen and bathroom designer Lee Hardcastle – into the design of your new kitchen is the perfect solution. “Wallpaper provides an easy way to add visual impact, even in small amounts,” he explains. “Wallpaper gives you the control of complementing the architectural elements throughout the kitchen or adding a beautiful contrast to an otherwise simple colour palette.”
And it won’t just be used to dress up plain walls either; Hardcastle predicts that next year we’ll also be seeing wallpaper being used in unexpected ways and spaces, such as on ceilings to create a striking feature.
4. Modern traditional style
Schemes that marry modern and traditional elements will be one of the most influential looks of 2015, according to Pillay, who says that homeowners are shunning ultra-sleek, contemporary kitchens in favour of spaces that are “warm, homey and reflect themselves”.
“This trend is affecting everything from cabinet design to colours; materials to textures – we are really mixing it up,” she explains. “Flat-panel cabinet doors are being replaced with classic door profiles (such as Shaker doors). Materials are also being mixed; for example, stainless steel with timber, and timber with marble.”
Modern design elements, like glass splashbacks and chrome handles, are also being replaced with features that exude traditional style and charm, such as tiles and black, pewter and brushed nickel fittings, she adds.
Schemes that marry modern and traditional elements will be one of the most influential looks of 2015, according to Pillay, who says that homeowners are shunning ultra-sleek, contemporary kitchens in favour of spaces that are “warm, homey and reflect themselves”.
“This trend is affecting everything from cabinet design to colours; materials to textures – we are really mixing it up,” she explains. “Flat-panel cabinet doors are being replaced with classic door profiles (such as Shaker doors). Materials are also being mixed; for example, stainless steel with timber, and timber with marble.”
Modern design elements, like glass splashbacks and chrome handles, are also being replaced with features that exude traditional style and charm, such as tiles and black, pewter and brushed nickel fittings, she adds.
5. Ceilings that make you look up
2015 is the year of statement-making ceilings, says Hardcastle, who designed the striking kitchen seen here. “For a long time now, we have all forgotten to look up. More emphasis will go into ceiling design, in terms of shape, features, etc.,” he says. “Whether it be through the use of lighting, bulkheads or coffer ceilings, or the addition of classic embellishments, our ceilings will become part of the room’s beauty once again.”
Not sure how to take your kitchen ceiling design to new heights? Look to this space for inspiration. Here, a timber design feature that frames the kitchen thoroughfare and runs from one side of the island to a bank of cabinets on the opposite wall instantly draws the eyes up, as does the row of clerestory windows that creates the illusion of a floating ceiling.
2015 is the year of statement-making ceilings, says Hardcastle, who designed the striking kitchen seen here. “For a long time now, we have all forgotten to look up. More emphasis will go into ceiling design, in terms of shape, features, etc.,” he says. “Whether it be through the use of lighting, bulkheads or coffer ceilings, or the addition of classic embellishments, our ceilings will become part of the room’s beauty once again.”
Not sure how to take your kitchen ceiling design to new heights? Look to this space for inspiration. Here, a timber design feature that frames the kitchen thoroughfare and runs from one side of the island to a bank of cabinets on the opposite wall instantly draws the eyes up, as does the row of clerestory windows that creates the illusion of a floating ceiling.
The show-stopping kitchen above – which features a bulkhead with decorative moulding, exotic Zebrano wood detailing and coloured LED lighting – is also sure to provide plenty of ceiling design inspiration.
6. Luxe metallics
While silver, chrome and stainless steel are three metallics that are commonly used in the kitchen, next year it’s warmer iridescent tones like gold, copper and bronze that are having their moment to shine, according to Natale. “Metallics in all their forms were prominent at Maison [Maison & Objet, a premiere design and lifestyle fair held twice a year in Paris], from copper to bronze to gorgeous gold, and I’m a fan,” the award-winning designer says. “The texture and gleaming finish of metallics provide a stunning accent to most palette choices.”
How would Natale incorporate it into one of his projects? “I’d go for gold tapware – a little bit of decadence to dress up the everyday,” he says.
While silver, chrome and stainless steel are three metallics that are commonly used in the kitchen, next year it’s warmer iridescent tones like gold, copper and bronze that are having their moment to shine, according to Natale. “Metallics in all their forms were prominent at Maison [Maison & Objet, a premiere design and lifestyle fair held twice a year in Paris], from copper to bronze to gorgeous gold, and I’m a fan,” the award-winning designer says. “The texture and gleaming finish of metallics provide a stunning accent to most palette choices.”
How would Natale incorporate it into one of his projects? “I’d go for gold tapware – a little bit of decadence to dress up the everyday,” he says.
7. Touch-me textures
“There’s a move towards using more textured and tactile materials,” explains Pillay. Natural marble and granite in honed finishes, as well as engineered stones that replicate raw finishes, are a few materials that we’ll be seeing a lot of next year, says the Sydney designer.
“Timber will still be a trend in 2015,” Pillay adds, “but we are now looking at finishes that represent timber in its natural form, rather than timber with a high-gloss or smooth finish.”
“There’s a move towards using more textured and tactile materials,” explains Pillay. Natural marble and granite in honed finishes, as well as engineered stones that replicate raw finishes, are a few materials that we’ll be seeing a lot of next year, says the Sydney designer.
“Timber will still be a trend in 2015,” Pillay adds, “but we are now looking at finishes that represent timber in its natural form, rather than timber with a high-gloss or smooth finish.”
8. Beautiful black
If you’re not too fussed on colourful or all-white kitchens, then look to the other end of the spectrum and consider choosing black to be the dominant tone of your culinary zone, which Natale says will be one of the ‘It’ colours in kitchen design next year. Why? “We spend so much time in our kitchens, and I think that more and more people want to make them a really special space – black makes a strong, sleek statement.”
A simple way to introduce this classic, sophisticated colour into your scheme is by opting for black cabinetry or benchtops, says Natale, who designed this moody, elegant kitchen. He also suggests adding panelling to infuse the space with extra visual interest.
If you’re not too fussed on colourful or all-white kitchens, then look to the other end of the spectrum and consider choosing black to be the dominant tone of your culinary zone, which Natale says will be one of the ‘It’ colours in kitchen design next year. Why? “We spend so much time in our kitchens, and I think that more and more people want to make them a really special space – black makes a strong, sleek statement.”
A simple way to introduce this classic, sophisticated colour into your scheme is by opting for black cabinetry or benchtops, says Natale, who designed this moody, elegant kitchen. He also suggests adding panelling to infuse the space with extra visual interest.
9. Minimal wall cabinets
Desire a kitchen that feels open, airy and not too top heavy? Then we’re sure you’ll appreciate this design trend, which Pillay predicts will be on the rise in 2015. “Open-plan kitchens are now being designed with fewer wall cabinets, though obviously this depends on the size of the kitchen and storage for the client,” she explains.
While open-plan kitchens have long been a popular choice for homeowners, having minimal wall cabinets will further enhance a room’s sense of spaciousness. The airy, bulk-free look also allows other design elements or features to enjoy the attention they deserve, she adds, such as windows that frame a picturesque view outdoors or a striking custom-designed rangehood, as seen in this contemporary cooking space.
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Desire a kitchen that feels open, airy and not too top heavy? Then we’re sure you’ll appreciate this design trend, which Pillay predicts will be on the rise in 2015. “Open-plan kitchens are now being designed with fewer wall cabinets, though obviously this depends on the size of the kitchen and storage for the client,” she explains.
While open-plan kitchens have long been a popular choice for homeowners, having minimal wall cabinets will further enhance a room’s sense of spaciousness. The airy, bulk-free look also allows other design elements or features to enjoy the attention they deserve, she adds, such as windows that frame a picturesque view outdoors or a striking custom-designed rangehood, as seen in this contemporary cooking space.
Find a cabinet maker in your area
10. Repetitive patterns
A major trend that Hardcastle is seeing is a move away from geometric patterns and the use of elegant, repetitive motifs instead, which he says will take shape in the form of laser-cut plywood or steel panels, wall coverings, door inserts and tiles (as seen above).
“Patterns from bygone eras will be revitalised to create intriguing and calculated designs that appeal to the fashion-savvy,” explains the award-winning designer, who predicts that Art Deco- and Art Nouveau-inspired motifs that feature hints of Turkish and other Middle Eastern influences will be quite popular in the year ahead. “Kitchen splashbacks will possibly benefit mostly from this foreseeable trend,” he adds.
A major trend that Hardcastle is seeing is a move away from geometric patterns and the use of elegant, repetitive motifs instead, which he says will take shape in the form of laser-cut plywood or steel panels, wall coverings, door inserts and tiles (as seen above).
“Patterns from bygone eras will be revitalised to create intriguing and calculated designs that appeal to the fashion-savvy,” explains the award-winning designer, who predicts that Art Deco- and Art Nouveau-inspired motifs that feature hints of Turkish and other Middle Eastern influences will be quite popular in the year ahead. “Kitchen splashbacks will possibly benefit mostly from this foreseeable trend,” he adds.
11. Tribal-inspired tones
Not a fan of all-white kitchens or monochrome schemes? Then you’re in luck, because vibrant, attention-grabbing hues are making a comeback in the kitchen.
“Colour tones will likely shift to echo the diversity of nature, with inspiration drawn from the rich, bold Moroccan and Native American palette,” predicts Hardcastle. “Vibrant yet dusty shades of mustard yellows, deep scarlet, royal blues and dirty pink hues may be used in place of primary colours. We’ll still see a mix of matt and gloss finishes to inject energy in the kitchen hub.”
Not a fan of all-white kitchens or monochrome schemes? Then you’re in luck, because vibrant, attention-grabbing hues are making a comeback in the kitchen.
“Colour tones will likely shift to echo the diversity of nature, with inspiration drawn from the rich, bold Moroccan and Native American palette,” predicts Hardcastle. “Vibrant yet dusty shades of mustard yellows, deep scarlet, royal blues and dirty pink hues may be used in place of primary colours. We’ll still see a mix of matt and gloss finishes to inject energy in the kitchen hub.”
If you’re not too keen on investing in coloured cabinetry or appliances, consider painting an accent wall (like the mustard feature wall shown above) or introducing decorative elements in one of these hues that will be easy to replace once your love affair with the palette comes to an end.
12. Vertical joint timber panelling
Another prominent trend that we’ll be seeing plenty of in 2015 is V-joint timber panelling, according to Natale. “It’s a dynamic, eye-catching way of introducing detail to a space, enlivening an expanse of one colour and using angles to bring a little movement to surfaces,” he says of the lining boards. He recommends integrating this trend into a kitchen by way of a panelled ceiling or cabinetry, both of which will add an extra layer of interest to your space.
Another prominent trend that we’ll be seeing plenty of in 2015 is V-joint timber panelling, according to Natale. “It’s a dynamic, eye-catching way of introducing detail to a space, enlivening an expanse of one colour and using angles to bring a little movement to surfaces,” he says of the lining boards. He recommends integrating this trend into a kitchen by way of a panelled ceiling or cabinetry, both of which will add an extra layer of interest to your space.
13. Shaker style
Classic Shaker-inspired kitchens will never go out of style, but according to Natale, it seems like this simple, timeless look will be particularly prominent in 2015. “I think a lot of people like to keep things traditional and appreciate the textural beauty of wood, which was a big factor at Maison & Objet this year,” the designer said when explaining why he thinks the Shaker style will be a top kitchen design trend in the year to come.
Keen to incorporate the trend into your new kitchen design? “I’d focus on the panelling of cupboard doors, which can work in a classic or contemporary space,” advises Natale, who designed the space shown here. Such detailing is a key characteristic of Shaker style, which focuses on clean lines, craftsmanship and functionality.
TELL US
Which trends do you love or loathe? How would you incorporate them into your kitchen? We’d love to know, so share your thoughts in the comments section below!
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Classic Shaker-inspired kitchens will never go out of style, but according to Natale, it seems like this simple, timeless look will be particularly prominent in 2015. “I think a lot of people like to keep things traditional and appreciate the textural beauty of wood, which was a big factor at Maison & Objet this year,” the designer said when explaining why he thinks the Shaker style will be a top kitchen design trend in the year to come.
Keen to incorporate the trend into your new kitchen design? “I’d focus on the panelling of cupboard doors, which can work in a classic or contemporary space,” advises Natale, who designed the space shown here. Such detailing is a key characteristic of Shaker style, which focuses on clean lines, craftsmanship and functionality.
TELL US
Which trends do you love or loathe? How would you incorporate them into your kitchen? We’d love to know, so share your thoughts in the comments section below!
MORE
Kitchen Inspiration: 20 of the Best Modern Kitchens
20 Budget-Friendly Updates for Your Kitchen
12 Essential Ingredients for a Traditional Kitchen
20 Gorgeous Kitchen Colour Pairings
Interior designer Greg Natale predicts that furniture-style cabinetry and other design features will be one of the top trends for 2015. This approach marks another step in the evolution of the kitchen as the hub of the home and a treasured space the whole family can enjoy, rather than just a functional area that’s used for food prep and cooking alone. “The incredible designs available celebrate the different elements of the kitchen as pieces of beautiful furniture, not just work stations, which allows people to bring their own personal, warm, welcoming touch to this space,” he explains.
So how can you incorporate this idea into your own kitchen? “A standout way is through an island,” says Natale, who designed the sophisticated culinary zone above. “Raising it on legs, or including intricate panelling or a contrasting top and sides are ways of turning this into a piece to be proud of.”