The kitchen is the heart of home — a place where family and friends gather over a meal or cocktail. The space should be beautiful and practical, where form and function intertwine. And so it makes sense that for 2023, we’re seeing a turn toward increasing comfort and convenience when it comes to kitchen trends. Carolina Gentry and Beth Dotolo from Pulp Design Studios have five particular ones that they’re loving this year.
Trend No. 1: Double appliances
“Having double appliances in the kitchen is going to be a big trend this year,” says Gentry. “Two dishwashers makes cleanup so much easier, especially for big families and people who love to entertain.” Their clients are also loving more refrigerator space. Think about the benefits of fridge drawers for storing drinks and snacks in the pantry, media room or playroom. And don’t forget about the chefs of the family: “Double ovens are definitely a fantastic bonus for our clients who love to cook and bake,” adds Gentry.
Trend No. 2: Mixed metals
“We love mixing things up at Pulp, and that includes metal finishes in the kitchen,” says Dotolo. “Soft brass with black, bright brass with brushed nickel, and stainless with copper — they all work well together.” Dotolo explains that the key is to layer in the finishes the way you would pattern a room. “You want one to be the star and use the other finishes as supporting players,” she says.
Trend No. 3: Warm woods
Warm woods are definitely making a comeback. The warm tones add an interest to a room that you can’t achieve with all-white cabinetry. “We also like using dark wood finishes on an island to complement lighter wood cabinetry, or even a bold color on an island,” Gentry says. “Again, it’s all about the mix and that element of surprise.”
Trend No. 4: Custom hoods
Think about adding texture and interest with a custom hood. “They are not only functional, but they also add a stunning focal point in a kitchen,” Dotolo says. “This is also a great place to mix those metals in the kitchen.” (See tip No. 2.) Add in bronze or metallic details to the hood, or even change it up with a completely different color. Think of the hood as a place to add a unique detail that makes the space truly yours.
Trend No. 5: Lower drawers
When space planning a kitchen, don’t forget to add in low drawers. “This trend just makes so much sense,” Gentry says. “A kitchen needs to be beautiful and functional, and this idea really offers more functionality.” Dotolo explains that she likes to take advantage of every square inch of a space, including in the kitchen, of course. “Lower drawers, rather than cabinets, helps you avoid those awkward spaces or having to reach way back into a bottom cabinet,” she says.