A ‘safe’ kitchen design has been the default for many people who are remodeling their homes, but it’s time to invigorate this space with bold design. After all, the kitchen is often referred to as “the heart of the home;” it’s where we spend countless hours cooking with family and entertaining friends. So it only makes sense that the “heart of the home” be a reflection of our personal taste and design style. The addition of something like a farmhouse sink or a rose gold faucet can elevate a space in ways that you might not have imagined. Here are three design updates that experts feel will take your kitchen to the next level.
Color Statement Sinks
“By going for what one finds ‘safe,’ it’s much easier to end up in a home that looks like everyone else’s — which, in the end, will be uninspiring and conservative in feel,” said Sean Juneja, the CEO of Decor Aid.
There is a reason people call the sink the “heart and soul” of the kitchen. This fixture is often a focal point, so picking an unconventional design can change the look of your entire space for the better. Choosing an apron-front sink like the Whitehaven Hayridge, with classic fixtures and functional design, can make your kitchen feel timeless with a twist, while an under-mount sink like the richly-colored Cairn, with its uniquely durable and beautiful composite finish, can foster a modern ambiance.
“Kitchens are a great place for a statement fixture because it's where everyone hangs out in the house” said David Malamud of 5+8 Design. “It's your home, and you should take opportunities to make a statement.”
Faucet Finishes
“We definitely like to start with the kitchen faucet since it's often the most highly visible fixture in the home,” said Malamud.
With so many faucet options, there is no reason to limit yourself to standard chrome hardware. The Sensate kitchen faucet offers touchless technology, a magnetic docking system and a two-function sprayhead in a variety of finishes that can fit your personal style from a dramatic ombré in titanium and rose gold to a matte black.
“Depending on their openness to the unexpected, bold finishes and fixtures can be brought in through a variety of compelling ways,” said Juneja. “From minimal hardware that boasts an intriguing finish, to unique faucets and sinks along the likes of something they’ve never seen before.”
“It has a layer of sophistication that takes outside-the-box thinking,” said Nishi Donovan of Nishi Design + Studio, who suggested trying a matte black finish.
Bold Design
In addition to color statement sinks and faucet finishes, there are other bold design elements to consider that can make your space truly stand out. Specialty materials and uncommon finishes add a level of sophistication, as reflected in the enameled cast iron basin and custom cabinetry of the Farmstead, which make the sink feel more like aunique, hand-constructed piece of furniture. Or turn up the drama and romance with intricate patterning, such as the embellished front apron on the Interlace on Alcott, which is inspired by 19th-century architectural facades. And for a modern, polished finish, brass accessories - like the Accent Kitchen sidespray with one touch spray operation - add a playful yet elegant sensibility.
“Taking risks can often yield terrific results,” said Juneja. “Nothing beats the feel of unexpected elements coming together to create a beautiful, well-judged space.”
