Janet Cook
October is National Kitchen and Bath month, which coincides when people start anticipating holiday gatherings. What is trending in kitchen remodeling design? Houzz is a popular online resource for doing home renovations. They recently conducted a 95-question survey of those doing a kitchen remodeling project to ascertain what design features are most popular, which helps others in their decision making.
The top two reasons to do the kitchen remodeling project are as follows: 42% said they could no longer stand the old style, 36% said the kitchen had deteriorated. The top updates included countertops (90%), backsplash (84%), sink(s) and faucets (83% and 81%), lighting (77%), refrigerator and dishwasher (75%), flooring (67%), kitchen cabinet replacement (66%), range (63%), kitchen island upgrade or addition (55%), and all new appliances (53%). The majority hire a professional for their project, and general contractors are in highest demand.
When it comes to major changes to the space, 45% of homeowners are changing the layout of their kitchen, with 27% increasing the size, and the L-shaped kitchen is the most popular (40%). Forty percent have their kitchen to open to an interior space, and 20% have it open to an exterior space. Hardwood flooring is still most popular (25%), followed by vinyl/resistant flooring (22%).
Overall design style is Transitional (23%), with Modern now in second place (14%), dropping Contemporary to third place (12%), followed by a tie with Farmhouse and Traditional (11%). Shaker-style cabinet doors remain the most popular (61%). White cabinets were selected by 40%, followed by wood tone by 24%. Forty-six percent choose a contrasting color for kitchen island: blue 24%, gray 15%, black or medium tone wood 12%, and dark wood 11%; with 64% adding pendant lights over it. The most popular countertop materials are quartz (36%), granite (23%). Sixty-one percent have their backsplash go from countertop to ceiling, and the most popular backsplash material is ceramic or porcelain (67%).
The vast majority of homeowners (92%) incorporate sustainable features in their kitchen remodeling project, specifying LED lighting (with dimming), energy-efficient appliances, water-conserving fixtures, and energy-efficient windows. Forty-seven percent sought a timeless kitchen design that provides smart functionality and long-lasting quality. Increasing and improving storage is a priority, including features such as cabinet organizers for trash and recycling (61%), cookie sheets/trays (53%), spices (41%), cutlery (38%), and deep drawers (36%).
Besides the activity of cooking, 71% eat in their kitchen, 46% reported it is where they socialize, and 23% said they work in the kitchen. The kitchen truly is the hub of the home!
Happy Home Remodeling!
Janet Cook, Certified Health Coach and Aging in Place Specialist, President of Cook Remodeling (celebrating their 44th year), invites you to check out their website for photos and more ideas.