Whether you're a talented chef or just like to experiment with Pinterest recipes on the weekend, your kitchen is the heart of your home. It's a place where you should be able to not only cook and eat, but also socialize with family members and friends. As you're remodeling your kitchen, focusing on these 2016 design trends will ensure you end up with an inviting, appealing space.
Soft and Natural Color Schemes
From whitewashed wood to muted pastel tones, soft colors are a go-to in the kitchen this year. For a fresh look, try a pale gray with pale green and yellow accents. Natural colors like walnut, charcoal gray and white are also great choices. These colors all make your kitchen feel larger and more open, which is wonderful when you entertain guests.
Well-Lit Cabinets
Gone are the days when you had to turn on every light in the kitchen to find something in the back of a cabinet late at night. Well-lit cabinetry is becoming quite popular in 2016. Cabinets with interior lights that turn on when you open them are all the rage, as is under-cabinet lighting that casts a glow down on your counter tops. For energy efficiency (another modern trend), choose LED lights.
Integrated Living Space
Integrated living space is space that allows for activities other than cooking in the kitchen. If you often work from home or just need a nook to keep your bills organized, a desk in the corner of the kitchen allows for this. If your kids like to play in the kitchen so you can supervise them while you cook, a play area separated from the rest of the room by a half-wall may be ideal. Think about your own family's needs, and design an integrated living space accordingly.
Smart Appliances
From ovens you can turn off remotely to refrigerators that sync with your smartphone and give you a readout of the weather report, smart appliances are taking over the kitchen in 2016! The most advanced smart refrigerators let you keep track of expiration dates and contents, so you waste less food. They sense the products inside them automatically—how's that for technological advancement?
The latest kitchen remodeling trends focus on designing a space that truly meets your needs. To learn more about making a space feel welcoming and comfortable, check out our post "Do-It-Yourself Holiday Decorating."
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