Hot Kitchen Trends for 2022

December 5, 2021

What’s on the menu in kitchen design in 2022? Whether you’re planning a full-on renovation or a simple update, here are some hot trends to keep in mind.

Sizzling Colour

And the 2022 colour of the year is… green! In fact, this hue was chosen by the world’s top colour authorities, including Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, Behr and others. Green will be a guest in many kitchens next year, appearing in a range of shades from airy sea-foam to mossy, misty tones. Painted cabinets, island base or walls can provide a whisper or pop of colour that is easy to change when the next big trend sweeps in.

Generally speaking, the kitchen is the most expensive and complicated room to renovate, so it’s wise to go neutral for the more expensive, more permanent fixtures such as floors and countertops. Paint can highlight a new colour trend without the huge commitment and cost of a renovation.

Speaking of cost, another benefit to painting is the price tag. You can achieve a high impact for a low investment, and depending on your space, the project can usually be completed in a day or two.

Simple Aesthetic

Simplicity is still trending in a big way, but for this trend to transpire in the kitchen (by far the busiest room in the home!) you’re going to need a good storage system. If you’re renovating, consider incorporating extended upper cabinets and strategic under-counter, central island and pantry storage to make the most of your space. If you’re updating your existing kitchen, a specialty organizational store or service (yes, they exist and it’s big business!) or even your local big box store will have plenty of options to retrofit in your kitchen.

Once you’ve stored your stuff, streamline the look further with clean-faced cabinets, or update existing ones with the modern minimalism of linear pulls. The overarching trend? Keep it simple!

Bold Details

Neutral and minimalist spaces still need a focal point, so look for ways to punctuate the space. in a kitchen, this could be a dramatic marble countertop, an eye-catching light fixture, a unique range hood, or something as simple as a piece of art.

TIP: The focal point is a good place to splurge if spending a little more is an option. This will become a key focal point in the space and is meant to attract attention, so choose something that will impress!

Multi-Function

Multi-functional spaces have become a necessity for many, whether due to the rising price of real estate or the continuing work-from-home and remote-learning trend. The kitchen has always been the busiest room in the home, and this space now doubles as a gathering and entertaining area, and triples as an office. If you don’t already have one, an island or a breakfast bar can be a highly functional and beautiful addition to accommodate food prep, quick meals on the go, homework and entertainment.

Good lighting is essential in the kitchen, so ensure each area (work, food prep and dining) is equipped with ample overhead and focussed lighting.

The secret to incorporating trends into your kitchen is to only choose two or three and call it a day. Overdoing it dilutes the trend and you’ll lose its intended impact. At the end of it all, your space should be a reflection of your tastes, interests and lifestyle. Make it yours, and you’re sure to love it well beyond 2022!

RED BARRINUEVO

Toronto-based stager Red Barrinuevo is the property stylist on HGTV Canada’s Hot Market Series and the Principal Designer at Redesign4more. He is an award-winning interior stylist who was also named one of the most influential people in real estate staging this year by RESA Global. His firm is known for enhancing and creating stylish yet functional spaces through its creative home staging, interior decorating, and design services.   www.redesign4more.com