Fast food
When it comes to dinner, we want it and we want it now. But busy lives mean not a lot of time for cooking, so manufacturers are coming up with increasingly quick ways to cook healthy food. The only thing that will cook dinner faster than the new wave of induction cooktops, high-speed ovens and full-size microwaves is your favourite takeout deli.
Go for green
From the actual colour to nature's influences in decor, from waste-management systems to more efficient appliances, green is the new staple ingredient in smart kitchen design. More efficient appliances (that cook fast so they're on for less time or are actually smaller – even electric kettles – so they use less energy) are especially hot.
Hands off
Electronic touchless faucets are now readily available in the marketplace. Since no bacteria are left lurking on taps, they're perfect during food preparation and cleanup. The water runs only when it's needed, so you don't waste the precious resource.
One bowl or two?
For country lovers, the farmhouse apron sink is an icon with timeless appeal, while hip urban types go for the huge restaurant-style single stainless. Both looks showcase the trendy style of large single-bowl sinks. But the truth is, most home renovators opt for the best of both worlds: the one-and-a-half is an enduring trend that offers the functionality of a large bowl without sacrificing a second separate bowl.
Single and sexy
Still hot (next to hands-free technology) is the single-lever faucet. The newest styles are super-sleek. Stainless steel is a finish that's trendy, in addition to the perennially popular chrome.
Waterways
Concern for safe, clean water supplies and a desire not to send oodles of plastic containers to landfills have led more and more homeowners to invest in home water-filtration systems. There are plenty of options – from systems that are integrated into the refrigerator or at the sink, or new and attractive countertop models.
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Read more in Kitchen & Bath and Trends
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