Generally speaking, contemporary design with clean lines remains the first choice for the trendy kitchen of 2022. Horizontal doors and simple, horizontal drawers with no moulding are the order of the day, although we are also seeing a return to a more traditional design, with a return to wood and glass or moulded doors.
We’re looking for as much built-in storage as possible, to maximize space. With this in mind, walls of organized storage and larger-than-life walk-in pantries are gaining strength in new kitchen design.
Cabinets
Wood has been the big winner in kitchens for a number of years, and this is no less true for the kitchen of 2022. We love it in all its essences, light or dark, birch or walnut, in all styles, contemporary or rustic chic. Always an excellent choice, wood is solid and durable. It can be painted, stained or left natural, depending on its use and current trends. It’s also the most environmentally-friendly material, from manufacturing to recycling. However, wood remains more expensive than other products.
For reasons of looks and durability, melamine, laminate and thermoplastic cabinets are best avoided. Melamine products are not very shock-resistant, while thermoplastic-coated panels have poor resistance to steam and heat.
Laminate remains a good, economical and durable choice for both countertops and backsplashes, but as it is often combined with melamine, it is sometimes overlooked.
Lacquered MDF, although a quality product, is left aside due to its high gloss level. In 2022, the gloss on cabinets and backsplashes is out, and the matte finish is in. Fingerprints and grease marks on shiny cabinet doors are a thing of the past, as we opt for matte fronts that are easier to clean.
Handles
With a steady decline in demand over the past few years, chrome finish for cabinet handles is OUT in 2022. Its shimmering color, and by the same token the ease with which it gets dirty, makes it a less and less popular solution. Matte black or brass finishes are preferred. For an even more minimalist design, opt for handleless cabinets with “touch-to-open” systems, concealed handholds or recessed handle systems.
Fittings
Still in this year, matte black and gold faucets are becoming increasingly popular.
More and more white faucets are also appearing. Although surprising at first, this choice makes sense as it’s much easier to maintain than other colors. Water stains and limescale are much less noticeable.
The counters
Natural stone is still in vogue. However, marble is taking over from quartz in the 2022 trends due to its more natural appearance. Quartz remains an excellent choice. On the other hand, forget the overly pecked, brownish or orange granites that look like something out of a 1980s kitchen. What’s more, countertops must be square. No more rounded or “o-gee” corners, which are not only more expensive, but also far from timeless.
Accessories
When it comes to countertops, even more attention is paid to concealing everything that would normally be found on work surfaces, to create an uncluttered kitchen. Everything that isn’t aesthetically pleasing (toasters, coffee makers and other items) is integrated into the storage units in cabinets specially designed to house these specific items. Breakfast areas are increasingly present in kitchens. Concealed behind recessed doors, accessible during meals and then hidden away once use is over, these clever, practical storage areas are currently in great demand.
Another fashionable solution is to create a walk-in pantry with work surfaces designed to accommodate small appliances. These two options will give you an immaculate kitchen!
