Top kitchen trends to try in your next renovation

If you’re considering updating your kitchen, it’s likely that you’ve been scrolling through the likes of Instagram, Pinterest and perusing your favourite websites, scouring out kitchen ideas. The risk is you'll end up with an over-designed space— a costly mistake which you're unlikely to see a return on should you decide to sell. To take out some of the guesswork when looking for kitchen renovation ideas, Justine Stedman, director and principal stylist of Vault Interiors offers her advice on kitchen trends you should pay attention to.

This year has seen a shift toward minimal lines, contrasted with warm and inviting elements, raw materials and an attention to decorative accents. However, before you jump the gun on detail, Stedman advises your first considerations should be functional— what do you need in a kitchen, how big the space is and what type of storage will you need. "Think about things like creating ample concealed storage and pull-out pantry to maximize space," explains Stedman.

When it comes to picking a trend to suit you style, consider how your tastes will translate into adding to the resale value of your home. "If your renovating for yourself you can invest in your style as much as you like, if the view is to list the property for sale or rent simple, clean neutral lines will always work best,” says Justine. "White kitchens will never go out of style, and neutral stone counter tops like off-white, grey, sand or charcoal are always a hit."

If white is just too boring for your tastes, Stedman advises to add timber joinery elements or subtle grey tones. 

Here's Stedman's five favourite kitchen trends to try this year: 

1. Handle-less streamlined looking cabinetry

2. Integrating appliances

Following on from the handle-less design, integrated appliances are a big trend this year. Concealing your dishwasher system and fridge behind cabinetry will make the most of beautiful joinery. This trends is particularly useful in seamlessly incorporating the kitchen into living areas in an open-plan space. 

3. Bold pendant lights

Large pendants over a kitchen island create visual interest, and will allow you to let your personality shine through.

4. Undermount sinks

Choosing an undermount kitchen sink will create an elegant look in your kitchen.

5. Marble splashbacks 

If your budget can't stretch to marble counter tops or a kitchen island, an marble splash backs are an affordable option. There's a variety styles available, from a simple slab of marble to marble tiles in scalloped, subway or hexagon patterns.