As we move into the new year, many of us are thinking about ways to freshen up our homes and it’s no surprise the kitchen tops many wish lists.
There are creative ways to keep your kitchen looking fresh and modern that don’t require gutting your kitchen to start from scratch every year. From upgrading countertops and backsplashes to adding new hardware, focus on what the space needs and incorporate trends there, versus reworking the kitchen from the ground up.
From increasing comfort and convenience to adding pops of colour and bold textures, here are eight top kitchen trends that will keep your space feeling fresh in 2023.
1. Closed-off floor plans
While an open floor plan is practical for some, 2023 is looking to be the year of privacy. The traditional style of kitchen is making a comeback, four walls and all, according to Audrey Scheck of Audrey Scheck Design in an interview with Forbes. Whether it be glass partitions, movable dividers, unique built-in shelving, decorative pillars, or simply a wall, the broken floor plan helps to compartmentalize your spaces, offering up privacy when you need it. When considering a broken floor plan for your kitchen, ensure accessibility and moveability is at the forefront of your design. While things might be closed off, you’ll still need to ensure there are open and clear pathways.
2. Revamped kitchen islands
Kitchen islands will be bigger and better in 2023, according to Lindye Galloway, founder and chief creative officer of Lindye Galloway Studio + Shop, in an interview with Real Homes. What was previously used for food prep is now being used as a space for working, playing, dining and entertaining, so it’s no wonder kitchen islands are doubling or tripling in size.
Kitchen islands will also continue their transition from functional features to centerpieces — drawing your eye in with bold paint colours, striking countertops, and unique elements like built-in drawer microwaves or pet feeding stations. Want to bring your island into 2023? Painting an existing island can inject colour and doesn’t require a gut job. Or, lose the traditional island and opt for an oversized antique workbench or rustic harvest table.
3. Stone countertops
Classic looks that transcend trends will be in for 2023. For countertops, that means more natural, expressive stone, according to Alex Main of The Main Company in an interview with Woman and Home. Its longevity makes it a durable and sustainable choice, which is top-of-mind these days. Mixing countertop materials can also change the look of an entire kitchen. Opt for quartzite on the surround and dramatic soapstone on the island. Lastly, The Interiors Addict says bold veined and streaky marble will be making a statement in 2023 — excellent on a waterfall kitchen island that can highlight and emphasize its beauty.
4. Slab backsplashes
Goodbye grout, hello sleek slabs! Traditional white subway tile and trendy zellige are on the way out and seamless slabs of quartzite, soapstone, marble, and granite are in — this according to Danny Spears of Captex Construction in an interview with Good Housekeeping. Carrying the countertop to the backsplash creates a continuous, clean sightline for a classic and simple look. Looks aside, it’s also easier to clean since there are no grime-attracting grout lines. Slab not your thing? Rustic, oversized stone is also making waves, says Jaclyn Genovese of Spaces by Jacflash in an interview with HGTV. Giving off an old European vibe, the large stone is softened by using an over-grouting technique, creating depth and charm. Contrast a rustic European backsplash with transitional kitchen elements and now you’re cookin’!
5. Luxe-looking cabinetry
The biggest trend in cabinets is not having them at all. According to Rebecca Nokes, Head of Design & Brand Creative at John Lewis of Hungerford, the days of standard upper cabinets are gone as open shelving creates an opportunity to show off beautifully styled vignettes.
Adding bespoke cabinet details like metal grille inserts, fluted doors and reeded glass offer playful textures and striking architectural looks, instantly making your kitchen feel more high-end and luxe, says Nadia Subaran of Aidan Design in an interview with House Beautiful. If the footprint of your kitchen is ideal and your base cabinets are in good shape, consider refacing, which can give you the look you desire at a fraction of the cost.
Moody hues like green, merlot, black and blue are taking over when it comes to trendy colours for 2023, according to Rashida Banks in an interview with Southern Living. Plus, with the return of dark wood-stained cabinetry, the kitchen is feeling more warm, inviting and intimate than ever before.
6. High-tech and covered appliances
Technology is making its way into the kitchen with more and more homeowners investing in smart appliances. From fridges that can order your groceries to ovens that can be controlled with your smartphone, the future of kitchens is smart, says Andy Briggs of Optiplan Kitchens in an interview with Woman and Home.
Appliance placement and integration will also dominate in 2023. Microwaves installed over the range have been the standard for more than a decade, but with the introduction of statement hood vents, microwaves are moving to the pantry or being integrated into islands. Fridges, freezers, and dishwashers are covered in panels for a seamless and integrated vibe, making the kitchen look more spacious and cohesive.
7. Let there be light
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and the right lighting can make all the difference. Key lighting trends for 2023 focus on layered lighting plans and, according to interior designer Kate Lester, statement lighting. There are many different types of lighting options for your kitchen, from decorative and task, to ambient and accent. A good, layered lighting plan will take all these into consideration and optimize the locations and usage of each in order to maximize the light in your space.
Oversized pendant lights are a great way to make a statement in your home, said Eddie Maestri of Maestri Studio in an interview with Vogue. They can be used to accentuate a certain area or to provide task lighting. When choosing an oversized pendant light, be sure to take into consideration the height of the ceiling and the size of the room. You don’t want the light to be too small or too large for the space.
Let’s not forget, lighting also refers to natural light, and in 2023 you should embrace this as much as you can! Extra-large windows over the sink or tall windows that flank a stove will ensure your kitchen is flooded in natural light, making it feel bigger and happier.
8. Mix-and-match finishes and hardware
Forget matchy-matchy and start mixing your hardware finishes. Interior designer Tiffani Baumgart told Good Housekeeping that brass, oil-rubbed bronze, polished chrome, and nickel can play beautifully together in the same space. Also, try mixing and matching knobs and pulls — knobs on doors and pulls on drawers. Swapping out hardware is relatively easy and inexpensive. Just keep in mind the placement of the existing holes so you don’t have to fill and paint your cabinetry.
It’s safe to say 2023 will bring some beautiful and long-lasting kitchen trends to the forefront. No matter what kitchen decor trends you’re looking to bring into your home, always ensure they align with your overall design aesthetic, for an upgrade that is truly you!
— Realtor.ca