It’s important for your kitchen to have an inviting aesthetic — but it can be easy to inadvertently sacrifice function for fashion. Modern kitchen ideas, when applied to your home, should add character. But you shouldn’t lose out on the more practical elements needed for ultimate comfort in your kitchen. It’s all about balance!
So far in 2022, we’ve seen some really unique and bold modern kitchen ideas resurface as trends. But should you really follow the trends if they’re fleeting and won’t feel as inviting in a few years?
Here’s what matters: We think you should have a kitchen YOU love — regardless of whether or not it’s “on trend.” Nevertheless, these trends are exciting and can bring inspiration to your kitchen remodel, and they’re worth considering and comparing with their more timeless counterparts.
2022 Kitchen Trends (and Timeless Alternatives)
Unsure what you want your kitchen’s aesthetic to be? These modern kitchen ideas and timeless designs will help you figure it out! When contrasting trends and lasting designs, remember that there is no wrong answer. This is your home, and your kitchen should reflect your personality and style! And we’re here to help you bring it all to life.
Trend: Bold Colors
We’re seeing a lot of very loud, bold colors overtaking kitchen cabinets and walls in 2022. This trend may not be for everyone, but if you love dark, rich hues, now is your chance to bring a little ”Dark Academia” to your kitchen! Think dark jewel tones, shades of black and navy, and other deep colors.
Timeless: Neutral Tones
Nothing beats a good neutral, and kitchen cabinetry is no exception. For a timeless kitchen design, consider shades of white, cream, pale gray, earthy light green, pale blue, or beige. These neutral colors will stand the test of time without being too plain.
Trend: Architectural Cabinets
Unique cabinetry shapes — such as fluted, beaded, and arched — are making a comeback as a modern kitchen idea in 2022. Shapes like these are a great way to add visual interest and a cozier feel to your kitchen space by softening edges, though they can be less practical in terms of function.
Timeless: Classic Shaker Cabinets
A simple, classic shaker cabinet will never go out of style. It’s the perfect cabinet style to really blend into the space and let your paint color of choice do the talking.
If you want your cabinets to have a little more interest without completely abandoning the standard rectangular shape, choose a more ornate raised panel cabinet design to add dimension and personality.
Trend: Granite Composite Sinks
Granite composite sinks have become hugely popular in recent years, and aesthetically, they’re stunning! We love the warmth more organic materials like stone add to a kitchen space, and granite sinks are one of those modern kitchen ideas that really makes a statement.
Unfortunately, these trendy sinks aren’t without their problems. These sinks are extremely heavy, meaning they’ll need additional support when installed. They also aren’t completely heat-proof (no hot-off-the-stove pans, please!) and can be unintentionally damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive scrub pads.
Timeless: White Ceramic Sinks
There’s a reason most kitchens have white ceramic sinks. Ceramic is scratch resistant, won’t show limescale or other build-up, is less expensive, and much easier to install. If you don’t want to worry about the hassle of granite, go with a traditional ceramic sink and add some character with unique brass or gold faucets.
Modern Kitchen Ideas That Never Go Out of Style
As an added bonus, here are some modern kitchen ideas we’re obsessed with year after year! You’ll never regret incorporating these designs and functional elements into your kitchen.
Matching Finish on All Fixtures
If you want to add a brass faucet to your sink or gold handles to your cabinets, don’t stop there! Match the fixtures — handles, faucets, light switch covers, even oven hoods — throughout your kitchen to keep it cohesive, and this modern kitchen idea will be timeless regardless of the finish.
Light Fixture Variety
Sculptural light fixtures can add a lot of character to your kitchen and make for beautiful ambient light, but they should be supported by standard spotlights for practical, shadow-free task lighting.
Concealed Storage
We consider this timeless because having effective and generous storage is a must for every kitchen, even those that also include some more trendy open shelving. If you have an open floor plan and a large enough space, you’ll thank yourself later for incorporating a utility room, bonus cabinets, or pantry for added storage.
Wood Floors
Nothing beats a beautiful wood floor. Whether you go with real hardwood, laminate, or even floor tile, a wood-look finish will work for most every modern kitchen aesthetic. This is one of those modern kitchen ideas that will look just as sleek in the future as it does today.
Multi-Use Kitchen Island
With larger kitchens, and especially in open concept homes, a beautiful and functional kitchen island is a must! Your kitchen island doesn’t need to just be additional counter space. It can also be home to your sink or stovetop and add more storage to your kitchen. Bonus seating is another island perk. Think about the layout of your kitchen and what function your kitchen island can serve. The possibilities are endless!
Ready to Redesign Your Kitchen?
Kitchens are the most fun room in the home to remodel, in our opinion. Your kitchen has so many unique elements that can be painted, restructured, or replaced to give the entire room a completely new look.
If you’re in the Kansas City area, we’d love to make your dream kitchen a reality! We’ll partner with you every step of the way to create a kitchen that you’ll never want to leave.
Ready to bring your modern kitchen ideas to life? Contact us today for a free estimate!
