Changing kitchen trends across the decades

Changing trends in kitchen design have kept us on our toes over the years, but there are some trends that have stood the test of time across many decades.

It was in the 1990’s that the minimalist-look became popular, and still is today. We didn’t want our counter-top appliances on show, we wanted smooth surfaces that were clutter-free.

White kitchen appliances were also a big trend in the 90’s. Since then manufacturers have tempted us with various colours in appliances, some of which are still popular, more so if they make a statement, however now the trend is very much to hide appliances away to create uninterrupted sleek lines that exude style and elegance.

People also wanted to entertain and socialise more at home back in the 90’s, which was when the adoption of the kitchen island came into the design.  The island provided a central social place in the kitchen which helped to bring friends and family together into one space, and added extra counter and work space into the kitchen.

The kitchen island is still very popular today, and never more so than since the Pandemic, when families have spent probably the most time at home together in the last 2 year since the 1970s!

Another trend in the 90s that (thankfully!) didn’t stick around for too long was brass hardware. Country oak-style designs were all the rage and combining brass hardware with oak was thought to create a warm and soothing atmosphere. We beg to differ!

So where are we now?

In 2022, the emphasis in kitchen design is on cleanliness, practicality and organisation.

Smart storage solutions

We all long for more organised lives and strive for tidy, planned kitchens. That’s why smart storage solutions play a big part in the 2022 trend for organisation.

Pull-out racks and rotational shelves are great innovations that give you easy access to every item in your cabinets without having to take everything out to reach something stored at the back.

Meanwhile, specially designed corner cabinets use a non-standard configuration to avoid obstructions by perpendicular doors. Internal shelving systems, including custom-shaped shelves and drawers, enable you to make use of awkward spaces and still have items in easy reach.

Built-in waste bins and recycling drawers are going to be a big feature of 2022. The beauty of these customisable storage solutions is that you can fully recycle all your household waste but avoid multiple recycling bins cluttering up the kitchen.

Practical, hygienic worktops

The trend in worktops is industrial chic. We want our work surfaces to look like they mean business.

There are many options for worktops and one of the latest trends is textured matt in concrete and stone designs, offering an understated style that can blend with any style of cabinet.

Whether it’s concrete, granite or marble, in 2022, we want worktops that can be kept hygienically clean and withstand heavy-duty activity.

Sleek handleless kitchens

Handleless cabinets have become increasingly popular in recent years, and they’re set to be a prominent feature of 2022 kitchen design.

In keeping with the desire for hygienic, practical surfaces, handleless cabinets are sought-after for their sleek minimalist finish. Cabinet doors can be kept clean with the wipe of a cloth as there are no protruding handles where dirt can accumulate in crevices.

Handleless doors and drawers are also a safe option as nothing sticks out for you to bump into. Instead, hidden grooves provide easy-to-open access.

The result is a smooth, uninterrupted flow to your kitchen that allows you to move around freely.

Oversized kitchen cabinets

As new-builds get smaller, creating a kitchen that maximises storage space is a real necessity. In 2022, cabinets are going right to the top. With their tall dimensions, full-height cabinets, allowing you to make the most of vertical space.

And not only do you benefit from additional storage, the floor-to-ceiling look also makes a style statement, giving a streamlined structure to your kitchen design.

Discover the latest trends in kitchen design for 2022

K Interiors Kitchens is your local German Kitchen supplier and installer. Our showroom in Leighton Buzzard is open 6 days a week. At K Interiors, we’re dedicated to delivering a seamless experience from initial project planning and kitchen design through to ordering, delivery and install.

Why not book a FREE kitchen design consultation and let us show you how we can transform your kitchen?

Call us on 01525 851830 or email: sales@kinteriorskitchens.co.uk