For many families, the kitchen is the center of activity. And anyone who has ever had a dinner or cocktail party knows that guests and hosts often end up congregating in the kitchen. Here are some emerging new kitchen designs, features and products that might help homeowners make kitchens much more than just a place to cook.
Go Green
Renewable, recycled, environmentally safe and energy-efficient kitchen products have become commonplace and more affordable. For example, This Old House points out that Teragren manufactures formaldehyde-free, food-safe bamboo work surfaces for kitchen counters and tabletops.
Industrial Strength
Freshome.com notes a growing trend in homeowners installing industrial kitchens that feature restaurant-grade appliances and a central kitchen island. Some of the newer kitchen island models can be moved from place to place within the room, and many feature stainless steel shelves.
Space Saver
Top-of-the-line kitchen cabinets have moved beyond featuring a simple lazy Susan or a built-in spice rack. Better Homes and Gardens (BHG) says new cabinet options, such as pullout trays, bread boxes and vertical narrow drawers for cookie sheets and baking pans, are the trend.
See Through
Glass-front cabinets can give the kitchen a fresh and modern look, and it provides a refreshing break from the look of wall-to-wall cabinetry, BHG says. These cabinets are ideal for storage of dishes, glassware and collectibles.
Open Up
Love them or hate them, BHG says open shelves are becoming a more common feature in remodeled or new kitchens. It might be a good choice for homeowners who have especially nice dishware, glassware and cookware.
