A modern kitchen today has details that the Jetsons would envy. While country kitchens are still popular, there is a great interest in very modern, almost industrial kitchen spaces. The new kitchen has more functions than just a place to cook and eat. It is a gathering place. Some of the most modern kitchens have not only gleaming stainless steel appliances that are built in, but stainless countertops as well. Cabinet design is sleek with very simple hardware or glass fronts. Everything is efficiently arranged for maximum ease in getting a meal on the table.
We all get excited watching the chefs on Food Network with their built in grills and deep fryers. Many modern kitchens have convection ovens as well as a microwave and traditional oven. There are massive refrigerators and some even have freezer drawers built right under the countertop. Some refrigerators are stainless steel while others are made to blend in with the cabinetry. I doubt if any of us ever thought wed see a refrigerator that looked like a fine piece of wood furniture, but they are available.
Countertops can be made from anything from stainless steel to marble or granite. I have seen poured concrete countertops that have been stained and polished and they are gorgeous. Of course, marble, granite, or concrete countertops are expensive, but they will last forever. You dont have to break the bank though. There are lots of choices in very attractive laminates for countertops. As with appliances though; its wise to keep the colors neutral so that when the urge to repaint strikes you, your color choices will not be limited.
If you are thinking that a very contemporary kitchen will look sterile and uninviting, think again. You can definitely warm it up with bold color choices for the walls, glass or tile backsplashes and wood floors. It doesnt have to look like an operating room. If you have a space away from the main cooking area, warm it up with an attractive area rug. I have seen modern kitchens with a cozy seating area that invites family and guests to visit while you prepare meals. As long as you keep your furniture choices contemporary; you can have comfort without ruining the modern design.
Lighting is very important in a kitchen. The days of a single fluorescent ceiling fixture are over. A modern kitchen will have brighter task lighting in the cooking and prep area. It may be recessed under the cabinets or you may have a series of industrial looking light fixtures above an island. If the kitchen has an eating area, choose a modern light fixture for that area as well that is in keeping with the style of other lights.
Everyone gets excited at the prospect of a new kitchen. If you have tired of your kitchen style, think about creating a sleek, modern kitchen. It will give a whole new life to the cooking and dining areas.
