Decorating & Design
Kitchen Report: What’s Trending Now In Fixtures, Appliances And Accents For The Heart Of The Home
Updated on December 14, 2023
In our 2023 Kitchen Report, we break down what’s trending in design, including the latest fixtures, appliances and accents for the heart of your home. From circular islands to wine-hued cabinets, get inspired by these hot kitchen ideas!
Circular Islands
Defy the status quo by going from a rectangular to a round kitchen island. With curves trending, it was only a matter of time before the island came full circle. The new silhouette looks fresh and unexpected.
The Hidden Pantry
Lynda Reeves designed this clever pantry with retractable doors for her lakehouse kitchen. Perfect for coffee bars and appliance garages, you can use the work area and then close it off.
Layered Textiles
Fabric is back! We’re seeing layers of pattern in blinds, throw pillows, banquettes and more. In this 1928 California Tudor house renovated by designer Meghan Eisenberg, the mix of textiles brings an eclectic, 1950s look with green velvet chair seats and a geometric banquette that nods to woven Shaker coverlets.
The Oxblood Kitchen
Navy or green painted cabinets are moving out, and rich oxblood, cherry and brassica shades are moving in. For Chused & Co.’s renovation of this Brooklyn, N.Y., townhouse, glossy, wine-hued cabinets are paired with warm metal accents for a modern vibe.
Whitewashed Douglas Fir
Kitchens are going bold with the dramatic grain of Douglas fir, whitewashed to a pale finish. This serene space in White Rock, B.C., by Andrea McLean features streamlined wood cabinets.
For a more maximalist take, this Muskoka, Ont., kitchen by Studio Paolo Ferrari (right) is wrapped entirely in Douglas fir and features a striking stone island.
Hot Accents For Small Kitchens
From single asymmetrical sconces to curved vent hoods, these hot accents will bring big impact to your small space.
Asymmetrical Pendants
One offset, dramatic pendant is a fresh take with flair. To maintain a balanced look, choose a fixture that fills one-third of the length of your kitchen island.
The Shapely Backlash
Right angles may be streamlined, but curvy is way more fun. The new shapely backsplash dovetails with today’s design trend for arched doorways, curved banquettes and circular islands. Upgrade your backsplash with rounded corners and soft edges that follow the contours of your kitchen.
Statement Flooring
Continuous flooring has been the standard in open-concept homes, but with the trend toward more clearly defined spaces, it may be time to shake things up in the kitchen. In this North London townhouse, the patterned terrazzo on the kitchen’s dropped floor creates an unexpected focal point. Other options? Try château-style hardwood floors or cork.
Fare Thee Well, Kitchen Island
Removing your island may seem rash, but jumping on this hot trend — bringing back the kitchen table and chairs — is 100 per cent worth it. Beyond the meal itself, having a beautiful table to sit down at when shelling peas or peeling potatoes will feel luxurious.
Flexible Refrigeration
Fridge and freezer drawers continue to entice and have become an entertaining staple. This extra cold storage allows you to stock up on drinks — and ice cream! — and is sized to fit in almost any room. The latest styles come in a swathe of unique colours. Look for features like a built-in restaurant-style ice maker and touchscreen temperature controls.
Counterbalanced Pendants
Easily raised and lowered, counterweight pendants are both beautiful and functional, and look great when hung asymmetrically over a kitchen island. Fans of this style of lighting include designers Lauren Nelson, Jessica Helgerson and Rose Uniacke.
Emma Reddington