Kitchen trends 2017: NKBA report

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Did you know that more homeowners remodeling their kitchens have been choosing simpler and cleaner lines for their cabinetry? This is a trend that started a few years ago and is still going strong.

On the color spectrum, while white kitchens still dominate as before, with grey cabinets close second, blue is now emerging as the new look in cabinetry. From robin's egg tones to navy, look for more stunning looks from this classic hue.

Pay attention to 2-toned looks: with upper and lower cabinets sporting a different finish: look for contrast of glossy finishes with textured woods and laminates. Islands are still a big favorite but may have a more custom look with shiplap trending high in that realm.

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Customers want more of those roll-outs and pullouts- keeping all pertinent cooking utensils, pots and pans, spice and pantry items within easy reach.

Lighting is the next big trend: LED lighting has taken over the kitchen lighting world, and under-cabinet lighting is now a must-have for most remodelers: it brings the lighting over work surfaces, is dimmable but powerful, energy efficient and long-lived.

Then come Quartz countertops: these stone surfaces offer maximum livability with stain resiliency and minimal care. The range of looks and colors is ever growing with many options available for every kitchen style.

On the appliance front: induction cooktops are going strong, as are convection ovens and microwave drawers - now outpacing countertop and built-in models. Steam ovens are starting to emerge for those more health-conscious.

Consumers also want docking stations in multiple locations for their handheld devices, they are intrigued with connected appliances, and those living in multigenerational homes or planning for aging in place are looking for universal design in the kitchen and bathroom.

Another trend noted in the report is the desire for a designated office space (take a peek at one of our home office remodel projects) - as 2.8% of the population currently works from home and more may do so in the future, this may become a more important trend.