So, at large, kitchen islands are not going out of style, we're simply seeing a shift in priorities in kitchen designs, and embracing alternatives that can be just as stylish and abundant as an island.
Assessing what's “in” and “out” in 2024, some are calling it the end of the kitchen island. A staple in most houses, it's hard to believe these multifunctional fixtures are becoming obsolete—and don't worry, all four interior design experts I spoke with say kitchen islands are here to stay.
Harlow & Thistle : Trend Alert: Kitchen Tables Replacing Kitchen Islands. Looking for what's new in kitchen trends? Check out this new trend! The kitchen table replacing the kitchen island.
Outdated Cabinetry
Granite countertops typically pair with natural wood cabinets, but pine or hickory cabinetry can date your kitchen's style back a few decades. Additionally, cabinetry with gold or brass fixtures shows that the kitchen hasn't had an update for a while.
A table creates a much more lived-in look, they are practical and they have an openness that islands don't usually have.” Her prep tables are a delightful compromise, with open shelving below and a practical work surface, all at a comfortable dining height.
The Rise of Multi-Functional Kitchen Islands
One of the key trends in 2024 is the transformation of kitchen islands into versatile hubs. Equipped for food prep, dining, and as workspaces with built-in charging stations, these islands are becoming central to modern kitchen layouts.
'A kitchen island isn't always necessary, especially when incorporating built-in appliances,' says Kerrie. 'In kitchens with limited space, opting for integrated appliances like ovens, microwaves and dishwashers can eliminate the need for an island, allowing for a more open and streamlined layout.
Grey kitchen cabinets are not out of style. Just because grey isn't in the top trends for 2024, doesn't mean it's out of style. Gray is a nice neutral that can be styled in a variety of ways. Talented kitchen designers are still using grey for their clients to create modern spaces.
1. A white or neutral colour scheme. White and neutral tones are popular choices in the kitchen for one reason: they don't date.
Peninsulas don't take up as much room as islands in an open kitchen. They are attached-to-the-wall extensions of the kitchen, so the coer placement is very economical in terms of the counter space you get compared to the floor space you give up.
In 2024, we're seeing a lean towards warmer greys that add a cozy feel to the kitchen. In fact, Sherwin Williams has named "Upward," a soft, midrange blue with gray undertones, as its 2024 Color of the Year. These paint colors are perfect for those who prefer a more minimalist, understated look.
Today, many homeowners wonder if oak cabinetry will ever make a comeback. Design experts confidently say they are already back! In general, wood kitchen elements are trending, and oak is at the forefront, leading the way.
'Homes are working harder so adaptable spaces that better serve multiple purposes are becoming ever more important,' says Lauren. 'Whilst kitchen islands allow for multiple uses, quite often, they are a fixed feature and may not work in homes where space is limited.
Quartz. Quartz countertops continue to dominate the market, and their popularity is only expected to grow in 2024. Engineered from natural quartz crystals and mixed with resins and pigments, quartz countertops offer an unbeatable combination of beauty and durability.
Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate. If using laminate countertops, specify that the substrate be made with a no added formaldehyde (NAF) resin. Additionally, CDPH-certified laminate materials are preferred.
Glorious Granite in Your Home
The truth is, 2024 is a great year for granite!
Beige is emerging as the new go-to neutral, adding warm and inviting tones to interiors. In this article, we'll explore why beige is taking over and how to use it in your home. Beige is replacing gray as a popular interior color, offering warmth and versatility for various design styles.
White is the most timeless cabinet color of all, with popularity dating back over half a century. It's hard to beat the crisp, clean beauty of bright white cabinets. They lighten the entire room and lend a refreshing, airy feel.
"White oak and warm oak tones have made a significant comeback. There's been a noticeable shift from the all-white kitchen trend to warmer oak tones in cabinetry," she says. "We're also seeing a lot of natural oak in the architectural detail of homes, from built-ins to tongue-and-groove ceilings."
If you need to use your kitchen as a dining room, consider using a dining or work table in place of an island. A table can be utilized as both social space, and additional workspace, especially if it has drawer storage as well.
Deciding between a hob or a sink is largely down to personal preference. There are lots of different things to consider when deciding if you should have a hob or a sink, or both, on your kitchen island. Hobs make the cooking process much more sociable, where sinks make prep much easier!