Modest yet Marvelous Makeovers

When we asked a handful of local designers and remodeling contractors what trends they're seeing in kitchens these days, they told us about quality, value and designs that pop with personality. While some alluded to consumers tightening their belts with partial remodels, others reported that clients still want design that shows some spunk — and will last longer than a passing trend.

Kitchen as the Life Center
Kitchens have clearly evolved beyond use as a food preparation area. Our clients want to use their new kitchens as a gathering space — a place where the cook can efficiently work and where the family can spend time together. Common requests include a TV location, comfortable and adjustable lighting levels, various seating areas and warm-feeling surfaces. Even laundry and mudrooms nearby are worked into the plan when possible. Desk or counter space is crucial for paper or computer work. An effective design incorporates these and other needs so the family can interact after a day at work and school.
—Clay Lyon, Lyon Construction + Design

Making a Statement
Homeowners are more design-savvy these days and want their personalities to shine through in their homes. Combining various styles and textures among cabinetry, countertops and hardware is a rising trend that gives clients the chance to create a unique kitchen area. Mixing and matching cabinet designs and finishes, such as exotic woods, colors, high-gloss surfaces and two-toned doors, really make a statement in the kitchen. The cabinetry becomes more like a stylish piece of furniture rather than a utilitarian necessity.
—Jordan Breedlove, Metzler Marion Construction Inc.

Kitchen design today is trending toward simple, clean lines based upon function and value. The details are less ornate, the lighting is innovative, and more hanging fixtures are featured. Alternative and innovative countertops include recycled and reclaimed materials like glass, concrete and bamboo. Dark stain on the cabinetry and bold wall colors are making a comeback. Each and every cabinet component is designed to house specific storage needs. The interior of the cabinet is as important as the aesthetics of the exterior.
—Debby Allmon, Schloegel Design Remodel

Bang for Your Buck
There is a pervasive sense of frugality among consumers right now, underlined by the desire to update what they have rather than redo it all from scratch. The question becomes: Where can we make the most impact? Older appliances and cabinets can stay as long as they are in working order and not too inconvenient. I would focus on the sink, faucet and countertops in a partial update. It's important to be able to keep your prep space nice and clean, and fortunately, these are some of the least expensive and least disruptive parts of a kitchen redo. 
—Sally Sweeney, Kitchens & More

Our clients have been focused on budget-conscious projects that improve the aesthetics of their existing kitchen space. Projects like countertop upgrades, new tile backsplashes or flooring have been predominant. More involved projects have included adding, replacing or expanding the size of an existing kitchen island or adding a serving bar/cabinet. Many times, these clients will opt for refreshing the existing finish of their cabinetry and use a different contrasting finish on the new island, built-in hutch or serving bar.
—Scott Ballentine, Lifestyles Custom Homes & Remodeling

Advancements in Technology
Appliances continue to change, evolve and improve as their manufacturers solve design problems in the kitchen. Drawer-based appliances such as microwaves, refrigerators and dishwashers present many design problem-solving opportunities. The continuous improvement of energy efficiency in refrigeration and dishwashing products is also exciting as we all become more eco-conscious. 
—Billie Deatherage-Doran, CKD, Deatherage Home Designs

Green Focus
I have been working with cabinet companies that are using sustainable products such as bamboo, stainless and reconstituted veneers for doors. They are also using finishes and adhesives with low VOCs and recycled plywood. I also specify energy-efficient appliances, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and LED lighting. I look at what can be reused from the old kitchen, such as countertops and cabinetry that can be reconfigured or  refinished. 
—Linda Johnson, Linda Johnson Design

This article originally appeared in the January/February 2010 issue of Kansas City Homes & Gardens.