WHY IT’S TIME TO TRICK OUT YOUR KITCHEN

For over a century, kitchens have undergone a continuous evolution. Initially, Victorian kitchens were utilitarian spaces tucked away downstairs or at the back of the house, managed by household servants. Transitioning into the first half of the 20th century, kitchens transformed into cheerful hubs where housewives prepared three meals a day while simultaneously overseeing their children. Post-World War II, a desire for both sociability and efficiency gave rise to open kitchens, with islands serving as central hubs for appliances and storage. This trend persists in modern kitchens, prompting the question: When will the enduring white-kitchen trend fade away?

Many homeowners remain enamored with the concept of light and airy kitchens, a trend that has endured over time. However, some designers, such as Danielle Colding, express frustration with the prevailing preference for this aesthetic. Colding, who recently designed a kitchen featuring cabinets painted in high-gloss saffron yellow, emphasizes the importance of contrast. She argues that an exclusive focus on lightness can lead to a lack of dimension in the kitchen space.

kitchen with rustic wood counter and stools with wood bodies and metal legs and white tiled walls

Designer Brittany Marom shares a sentiment of embracing moody kitchens, advocating for a departure from the prevailing white kitchen trend. Marom incorporates elements like wood accents, including tambour doors and oak hoods, to introduce depth and character into her kitchen designs. She argues that maintaining white cabinetry and marble can be burdensome, prompting a shift towards darker, more distinctive kitchen aesthetics.

The enduring popularity of the white kitchen is attributed to a convergence of influences. There’s a prevailing belief that kitchens, being central to our daily lives, should evoke a sense of comfort without posing any risk of visual irritation. Additionally, concerns about resale value often lead homeowners to opt for neutral and universally appealing designs. The influence of social media platforms like Instagram further amplifies the iconic status of certain white kitchens, equating them to revered architectural landmarks like the Parthenon.

kitchen with speckled floor and green tiled wall behind counter

The recent shift in mindset is evident in a departure from traditional considerations of resale value to a more personal approach focused on self-enjoyment. Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing their own preferences over the expectations of potential future buyers. Danielle Colding encapsulates this shift, emphasizing the idea that the kitchen should be a space for personal enjoyment rather than conforming to generic standards.

This change in perspective is not only leading to more visually daring designs but also a departure from the notion of overly precious spaces. Ernest de la Torre, for instance, encouraged homeowners to preserve a 1960s St. Charles kitchen in a historic mansion by painting the stainless steel cabinets turquoise, resulting in a beloved and distinctive room within the house.

Designer Emma Beryl notes a growing preference among her clients for “living” materials such as stone and wood, emphasizing the desire for elements that age gracefully alongside the homeowners. Acceptance of the natural wear and tear on materials like stained and nicked marble is becoming more prevalent, contributing to a homey and lived-in aesthetic.

stainless steel kitchen cabinetry with multiple windows with white shades behind it and a dark flora rug on the floor

In the pursuit of perfection, those with a meticulous taste are exploring alternatives to natural stone, venturing into the realm of engineered quartz slabs offered by companies like Caesarstone and Cambria. These slabs not only emulate the aesthetic appeal of natural stone but also boast high resistance to stains and scratches, providing a durable and low-maintenance option with a diverse range of colors and finishes.

The world of kitchen appliances is witnessing continuous technological advancements, with brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, and LG introducing increasingly sophisticated features. For those with a penchant for colorful accents, options like Big Chill’s retro-style stove, available in pastel green with a brushed copper trim, or Bertazzoni’s ranges coated in sleek automotive paint inspired by Italian racing cars, offer a vibrant departure from traditional stainless steel. Danielle Colding notes the expanding trend of fun and colorful ranges, highlighting a shift from the previously limited options represented by brands like La Cornue.

In a nod to both modernity and a touch of nostalgia, discreet chefs’ kitchens are making a comeback. Homeowners are increasingly requesting private spaces for cooks to prepare meals, reminiscent of Victorian-era kitchens. Additionally, the revival of old-fashioned dumbwaiters is noted, particularly in these lower-floor culinary spaces, adding a touch of vintage charm to contemporary kitchen designs.