As we all have our own ideas of what is homely and suitable for our life style; there is always a thought of what is going around the world, what is trendy and in fashion. There is no need to travel around the world to find the answers. Here’s what the latest kitchen trends are as seen around the world according to Philip Richards from Blu_Line: ‘Globally, kitchens have successfully made the move to being that of a featured living space where one can cook, relax, entertain while at the same still be a masterpiece, achieving necessary form as well as critical function. Designs are timeless in appeal and neutral in colour. Kitchens now boast a sense of simplicity in that the lines are clean and the spaces uncluttered while the colours and textures employed are warm, rich and fresh. A combination of textures and various thicknesses of materials show how design is progressing; away from clinical rooms to a more temperate and thought-through space that still offers the beauty and simplicity of minimalist design while handling the introduction of various materials that ultimately enhance the overall experience and appeal of this living space.’
This is interesting so what would Mr. Richards comment be on existing kitchens and incorporating these trends, i.e. can discerning home owners integrate certain elements of these trends into their kitchen without having to redesign the entire space?
‘This can be very challenging with an existing space but the key is always ‘less is more’ so the starting point is to de-clutter the space and then to begin looking how timeless and neutral colour can be introduced.’ Well, at least one has an idea of what is possible but one could surely use some of the latest trends and introduce them into one’s kitchen in a subtle way.’
This leads to the next burning question What are the “must-haves” for an ultra modern kitchen? In response to this Philip’s opinion is that ‘There is far more pressure on a kitchen now to be a showpiece than there ever has been and using integrated appliances is a key part in creating the desired look. ‘Handleless’ design is also critical in the space so as to achieve an uncluttered and seamless flow. The combination of textures in the same living space is essential so that the space still has substance and a sense of depth. An ultra modern kitchen must meet all the functions demanded of it and this is achieved through customising the internals of cabinets with solid wood and stainless steel inserts in order to house all the necessary kitchen items while at the same time creating a sense of luxury while using the space.’ So folks this means that careful planning and conviction is necessary in executing a modern but timeless kitchen; one that meets with your requirements and taste.
It’s rather fascinating but introducing colour into one’s kitchen can uplift and create an entire new feel to your home. Therefore Philip’s view on What are the global colour trends in kitchen design? Propels him to answer that ‘The most popular trends in the kitchen are definitely timeless, neutral and rich colours. These colours range from your blacks and warm charcoals to stone, Mocha and latte, finishing with white. These colours are used to create a neutral and timeless canvas for the space, that when combined with other textures like glass cladding, rich, yet graded timbers and worktops will enhance the overall look of the space. Our society is very driven and simply put, stressed, so it is of no surprise that we are looking for spaces that can create a feeling of calm, rest and simplicity while not losing that sense of luxury and warmth.’
Philip Richards of Blu_Line has insightful and creative ideas about utilising your kitchen space to its fullest, his understanding of convenience and bearing the ‘on-the-go’ lifestyle that most of us lead in mind; he offers trendy, sophisticated ideas on living space that will meet your needs. His contribution to SA Home Owner has placed Blu_Line on the front line for kitchen trends and home living.
