This year’s trends splattered across the pages of leading design-zines see kitchens being remodeled with fresh and funky designs for the future. Granite countertops and espresso floor tiles will soon be considered outdated as 2014 ushers in a new era of kitchen designs that are more practical, durable, and fashionable.
Kitchen space
There is a lot of focus on space in design – and plenty of work-space is essential in a happy kitchen. With a well-planned design, sufficient countertop space can be incorporated into a kitchen design. As a general guideline, you need at least four feet of floor space behind you facing a worktop, and the ideal counter space is at least 42-inches between the front edge and the back wall and 12-inches of free space on either side of your cooker. Round countertops provide even more space and give you a kitchen that looks like you are in outer space.
Sustainable countertops
Yep, even kitchen countertops are made from earth-friendly yet durable materials these days, but the result is a range of designs that will transform your kitchen. If you are into the post-industrial look, go for quarried stone slabs, or why not funky kiln-fired recycled glass that restricts heat and stains. For a surprisingly sophisticated look, granite and glass pulled off the roadside are particularly eye-catching and not too pricey.
LED Lighting
LED lighting is the latest energy-efficient lighting system, and the lights come in a wide variety of shapes, colors and sizes. They are more versatile than traditional bulbs, have a longer lifespan, and do not use as much electricity. Fit them under cupboards or in adjustable lamps on the walls so that you do not create shadows when cooking in artificial light.
Cabinet changes
Another twist in fashion trends for 2014 is shifting away from the idea of concealed appliances to open cupboards. The idea comes from thinkers of the saving energy-age, which requires less material whilst creating more space.
If you feel door-less cupboards are a little extreme, glass cabinets are predicted to be all the rage, despite the design having been around for more than a decade. Still, you also get a chance to show off your crockery and shiny pan set without having to invite guests to dinner. Of course you may need to invest in a pan set worth displaying.
Unique shelving
Another alternative to bare cupboard fronts is to dispense with cabinets altogether in favor of open shelves, which can be used for all-manner of things. Ditching cupboards give you more roaming space, and you can use open shelves to store you crockery like little ornaments.
Author Bio: Richard is a freelance writer on behalf of Mowlem & Co. He loves writing about home improvement, technology and interior design.