|
|
Services
|
Sneak peek at kitchen trends: What Canadians want(NC)-January 2006- In the last few years, the kitchen has become the hub of the home - more than just a place to eat, but also a place to work and entertain friends. How fitting then that kitchen renovations have become almost a right-of-passage for homeowners looking to spruce up their favourite gathering room. If you find it hard to keep up with the latest styles, Arren Williams, Stylist for The Home Depot Canada's DreamBook, knows just what Canadians should look for before tackling this much loved space:
White Hot - White kitchens are increasingly popular because of their timeless, classic look. "If your style is more traditional, choose an antiqued patina with a softer more vanilla tone on doors with detailed mouldings," says Williams. "For a modern look, bright white cabinetry with a simple door style with stainless steel hardware works well." Stainless Steel - Now available at every price point, stainless steel is more accessible than ever before. New stainless-look finishes resist fingerprints and marks - great for families with sticky-fingered children! "If you're planning on selling your home, by replacing you appliances with new ones in brushed steel, you'll instantly improve your kitchen's look, even if you don't want to splurge on a complete makeover," says Williams. "But if you want to really treat yourself, this year's must have for a new kitchen is a stainless steel wine fridge."
Wood wears well - Wood kitchens still make the grade at the
high-end of the scale in rich finishes like warm cherry or dark stained oak.
"To up the style quotient and give your kitchen a hand-built feel, use crown
moulding to top the cabinets, add a built-in wine and spice rack, antiqued
hardware and furniture-style 'feet' to jazz up the kick-plate," says
Williams. A kitchen starts with the floor - Slate has become a durable and affordable classic for flooring, no matter what your style. Ceramic, porcelain and laminate flooring that mirror natural finishes is also popular. In wood - solid or laminate - look for antiqued finishes, tropical hardwoods and even bamboo. Island getaway - Kitchen islands are here to stay. "Islands are ergonomic too," says Williams. "The less walking you have to do, the more efficient your kitchen space becomes."
Today's kitchen - "Today's kitchen incorporates traditional
looks that have become softer, cleaner and less fussy," says Williams. "As
consumers become more style-savvy, they learn to cherry pick ideas from
different trends and mix it up to create personal spaces that reflect who
they are." What to look for? Sleek kitchens with rustic tables and chairs
and laid-back country kitchens with crisp stainless steel appliances are in
style. |
|
All
Around The
House™
