When redecorating or remodeling, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends. Do a little research to see which ones aren’t just fads. Seek out online experts and ask people working on the project which trends should stand the test of time.
We looked for that kind of advice about the kitchen—the most remodeled room in a home. Appliances need to be replaced, surfaces get a ton of wear, so kitchens can quickly look dated. Some guidance from the experts:
Follow your home’s style. Kitchen design choices that fit your home’s overall character tend to stay fresh-looking longer.
- Colonials, cottages, Tudors, and Craftsman style homes all work well with traditional cabinet details, simple color palette, natural wood, and stone.
- Mid-century modern style homes and suburban ranches can take a variety of kitchen approaches—nostalgic, pop culture, or cutting-edge contemporary.
- Victorians look great with period materials—cherry-wood cabinets, encaustic tile, tin ceilings, white tile.
- Cottage style homes look great with bright walls and a slant-front soapstone sink.
- Antiques and colonial reproductions can hide the refrigerator behind cupboard doors.
- Craftsman bungalows work well with furniture-quality cabinets, tile, dining nooks, banquettes, and appropriate lighting fixtures.
- Warm it up. Use hardwoods for flooring and cabinets, incorporate textiles, and don’t shy away from colorful wallpaper, paint, tablecloths, linoleum, and dishes.
Create visual continuity. Tie the kitchen into the rest of the home using flooring and woodwork from other rooms.
Trends to avoid: sleek all-black or all-white “designer” kitchens; faddish cabinet pulls; cabinets that look fussy or severe; appliances with built-in computer screens; granite countertops in exotic colors and patterns.
Timeless touches: black-and-white kitchens (dark countertops/light cabinets, or vice versa); wood floors, cabinets, and freestanding furniture; nicely proportioned cabinets with tasteful details; flat- and raised-panel doors; countertops in classic, quiet colors; brass, nickel, or Bakelite hardware; off-white cabinet colors going toward yellow, cream, bisque, beige, tan, or grays.
Take the same approach when remodeling or redecorating other parts of your home, seeking out expert opinions on everything from wall decals (probably trendy) to rain showerheads (probably timeless).
When you need to fund these home improvements, refinance your current home, or move on to a new one, please contact us about the wide range of financing options now available. Just call or email any time…. Have a great day!