We surveyed designers across the country to give us their take on the most important trends in kitchen design this year, and discovered that the most-renovated room in the house has undergone an important evolution. No longer a back room for household work, the modern kitchen has become more tailored to our individual lifestyles, and more personal than ever before. Here's a selection of the designers' observations.
"In a larger kitchen, having a desk area with enough space for a computer is great for people who like to work and cook at the same time. It might include a counter, a couple of file drawers – a lot of people are asking for that now – and a phone." Jennifer Lambiris, Susan Troup Design, Halifax
"The stove is where things have changed the most. You might have columns on either side, or build-in the range hood. There's much more emphasis on the cooking area, in keeping with kitchens being more open to the rest of the house." Tia Moras, CKD, CBD, Lonetree Kitchens, Vancouver
"Counter height and material is important from an ergonomic standpoint, not only to customize it to the height of the owners, but also for food preparation. For example, you could have a low marble inset – great for rolling out pastry – and a raised butcher-block section that's comfortable for chopping." Pat Swalander, CKD, CBD, Heartwood Kitchens, Calgary
"We're doing a lot of on-site hand-painted cabinet finishes – it gives them a warmer texture. Also, it's practical: it hides a lot!" Scott Yetman, Scott Yetman Designer, Montreal
"I like soapstone counters because they aren't uniform in colour and they don't stain like marble; the matte, honed finish is beautiful, and you can oil it to give it a sheen." Julie Turgeon, Madeco Construction, Laval, Que.
"People love the notion of wood floors, but now we're inlaying a stone ‘carpet' in the wet areas, like in front of a sink. It adds to the look, of course, but it's also completely practical." Dee Dee Taylor Hannah, Taylor Hannah Architect, Toronto
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