We are always trying to predict the future, with questionable success. However, some trends are evident (as explained by Kitchen Distributors reference to the National Association of Homebuilders study on kitchen design.) The trend will be towards smaller homes. With smaller homes comes smaller kitchens. With smaller kitchens there is a bigger premium put on EFFECTIVE storage solutions; replacing the walk in pantry with 24" deep pull out pantries, using every corner, every inch of floor space. Even using the space INSIDE of the wall (yes we can build shallow cabinets that fit between the studs) so that you can gain storage without infringing into precious floor space.

Many kitchens double as a passage way to other parts of the home similar to this galley kitchen. With space at a premium, kitchen designers use built in finger pulls on cabinets doors to eliminate protruding handles. Space issues will also promote the open concept (no walls) between the kitchen, living and dining areas. With some kitchens that means eliminating a wall and replacing it with an island. With other kitchens it means eliminating the island.

With openness comes exposure. All the MESS needs to be hidden...somewhere. Everything that is on the counter will be seen by everyone. (Do you really want to see the rice cooker from the living room sofa?) New openness will force us to rethink our storage/cabinet needs as well as our cooking accessory purchases. Remember that brief trend that had garage style doors that pulled down to hide the kitchen? Well, that may be a little extreme.....

Contact me with your thoughts! Ciao!