Every year designers and contractors weigh in on the top trends for kitchen design. Whether you are planning to remodel or just add a few simple updates, we’ve highlighted some of our favorite key trends that will help get you inspired!

Brass Accents

As we mentioned earlier, this year brass is definitely making a comeback, in both the design and fashion industries. In recent years, chrome and nickel were the metals of choice for interiors, and gold was nowhere to be seen. But designers are starting to favor warmer metallics, like antique brass–it’s less flashy than gold, and it brings a luxurious but understated shine to a room.

 

Brass Faucet with Black and White Kitchen

source: Pinterest

Brass Hood in Brooklyn Kitchen

source: Workstead, via Dwell

Brass Kitchen Faucet and Custom Wood Counter

source: Workstead

 

Statement Lighting

Kitchens and dining areas are great for their functionality, but they can also be the perfect place to express your personal style. Incorporating interesting overhead lighting is a sure way to make a style statement. If modern elegance is what you’re after, read about how to Get The Look with a striking Moooi pendant. But using stylish lighting is easy, no matter what your style. Just look for oversize pieces with unique shapes, textures and metals, or try something small in multiples. “Non-kitchen” kitchen lighting will make a big impact and bring style into your home in an unexpected way.

 

Kitchen with Wicker Pendant Lamps

source: My Home Ideas | Photo Credit: Jean Philippe-Piter

Three Globe Chandeliers in Kitchen

source: Rejuvenation

Agate Counter with Chandeliers in Kitchen

source: Houzz

 

Comfort in the Kitchen

The modern kitchen is rapidly becoming the social center for the home, with more people enjoying it as a space to relax, dine and entertain. This year, we will see more open and spacious kitchens that flow seamlessly into the dining and living areas. Design will aim to combine practicality and comfort and will place a heavy emphasis on adequate seating and accommodations for not only dining, but also lounging, long conversations and homework projects.

 

 

Neutral Cabinetry

White cabinetry is still the most coveted design style for kitchens this year. Whites and off-whites give a kitchen a clean look, while also making the space feel larger by reflecting light. Shades of gray, greige and painted wood finishes are also big trends for 2013. Plus, neutral shades are a versatile and safe investment because they stand the test of time. To prevent your space from looking too washed out or boring, though, add color as a decorative layer with accessories, small appliances and furniture. That way, if you find that a few years down the road, you’re suffering from designer’s remorse over that lime green coffeemaker, you can easily swap it out.

 

Traditional Kitchen with Neutral Cabinets

source: Interior Decisions Inc. | Photo Credit: Peter Rymwid