When you think about your life over the past year, a lot has changed. A lot. And that change has made a big impact on how we use our kitchens, the space we need, what we need the space to do, the tools to do the job, and so much more. The kitchens of 2021 and beyond are a direct reflection of where we’re at, thanks to a global pandemic. It’s the COVID-effect: kitchen edition.
So, let’s look at what’s cooking in the COVID-era kitchen.
Kitchens Get Smart
We’re seeing smart appliances more and more. We’re baking, toasting, and steaming in microwaves and using air fryers, cooking sous vide, and appliances with touch screens for easy household communications are all making living, working, and creating dine-in experiences at home much easier.
We’re seeing smart shopping. Lists are being made. Food waste is being reduced and budgets are being drawn up.
And we’re seeing lots of smart storage. Thanks in part to Netflix binges of The Home Edit, we’re all about colour-coded pantry storage. We’re also seeing an increased need for more space, and more efficient space for storage. This includes adding in a second fridge or freezer, or both. As well as thinking about dry pantry storage and all the flour you need to keep up the bread making habit.
Kitchens Go Green
Literally. The number one trend in kitchen colours is green. Looking to update your kitchen décor this year? Try painting the lower cabinets a deep dark delicious green.
We’re also going green in our kitchens thinking more about sustainability, reducing our food waste, making our own dish soap, and looking for ‘green appliances’ with Energy Star ratings and a focus on reducing energy consumption.
Kitchens Make BIG Statements
We’re seeing statement art. A BIG trend we’re seeing in kitchens moving forward is a BIG nod towards artworks. Where traditionally the kitchen wasn’t a place for art, we’re now seeing large statement art pieces hanging in breakfast nooks, and amidst the open shelving, and nestled amongst a cutting board vignette.
We’re seeing statement range hoods. What goes better with professional quality ranges than a big bold statement range hood? Exquisitely tiled, or hand painted, or a bright copper finish, no matter the statement the range hood can take it.
We’re seeing statement sized islands. A big island has been increasing in popularity as it solves many problems with one (large) solution. Need more storage for all those handy new small appliances? Larger island. Need more seating so kids can school or you can work from home? Larger island. Need to prep and cook while kids are doing homework? Larger island. It’s a statement that’s also a great solution.
We’re seeing a big statement with restaurant quality appliances. We’re cooking at home more than ever in recent history and we want it to be great. We’re upgrading and taking the dine-in experience to a whole (home) new level!
Looking at all these trends and changes, there’s no doubting the kitchen will continue to be a central spot in our homes for years to come.
What’s cooking in your COVID-era kitchen? What new changes or updates do you dream of making in 2021 in your kitchen?