Kitchen design: how to avoid stereotypes

The room that has recently undergone the most transformations in appearance and configuration is the kitchen. Architects and decorators are confident that it is high time to take a broader look at the place where we cook and spend a significant part of the day. Abandoning stereotypes means taking a fresh look at the issue of choosing materials, ways of organizing space, choosing lamps, mixers and mastering the possibilities offered by new technology.

Unusual planning practices have certainly been influenced by the trend of combining kitchens with living rooms – the influence is reflected in elements such as an island equipped with cooktops and sinks. Often they began to use a snack stand or new forms of practical tables. All transformations point to how the kitchen from a service space becomes a place for communication. For example, star designer and decorator Joseph Dirand installed a sofa in his Parisian home because this is where he spends the most time with his family.

Invisible kitchen

A direct consequence of combining kitchens with living areas is the spread of “invisible” kitchens. What was once a practical and necessary solution in small rooms has now become a conscious preference regardless of the area – the room is entirely hidden behind vertical panels. In a modern kitchen, everything should be hidden: not only storage systems and shelves, but also household appliances, and in some cases even sinks.

Lighting as an element of style in your kitchen

Light has always been a defining element of the style of a room. And the kitchen is no exception. The capabilities of LEDs have transformed the room: almost all household appliances are now illuminated, but there are many more uses for new lighting sources in there. There are hundreds of compelling functional reasons for the massive appearance of diodes in the kitchen; they are especially appropriate in spaces under wall cabinets. An illuminated display case can also become a modern element, while pendant lights above a table or island will add a decisive touch to the decorative appearance of the room.

Techniques for modern kitchens

It’s not just a matter of constantly improving technical characteristics: new appliances allow you to rethink the entire kitchen space. It is worth paying attention to two elements that are guaranteed to transform the appearance of the room. First of all, this is a flat profile induction hob – it will provide a minimalist aesthetic that is ideal for creating the illusion of “disappearing” between the lines of the hob. Another detail is modern hoods. On the one hand, you can find models of increasingly original and characteristic shapes, on the other hand, they can be integrated into the tabletop to free up the ceiling and even disappear from view. Finally, home automation: it is in the kitchen that voice assistants are most relevant. Consider how to install small displays – they are often integrated into furniture. This can be an excellent recipe tip – and you can also get into the habit of watching video cooking instructions. This will also give you the opportunity to make video calls or watch TV shows while cooking.

White kitchens

A trend that has already gone out of fashion and returned back: the reason for this is its versatility. White can instantly bring a sense of modernity and clarity to a kitchen. White surfaces, in addition to their formal cleanliness, have a clear advantage: they provide the most vibrant background for the environment. White is still a traditional solution that is easy to combine. In particular, white kitchens are the best idea for spaces where you want to maintain brick trim or stone walls. Tip: Don’t limit yourself to neutral materials, but use shades of natural surfaces such as Carrara marble, resin and microcement.