A kitchen renovation is a big investment, and one that we expect to last for years - so it's important to choose kitchen decor that will stand the test of time without becoming dated. That's why its wise to look beyond the current hot trends and think about emerging looks that will only become more on-trend in the years to come.
When it comes to new kitchen trends, no-one has their finger on the pulse more than Paul Jenkinson, founder of British brand LochAnna Kitchens and a 25-year veteran of the kitchen business. Here, he shares his insights into the emerging kitchen decor trends that will define 2021.
So if you're planning a renovation or even a simple spruce-up, make sure you're ahead of the style curve and get up to speed with the looks we'll be loving in 2021.
Earth colours
'While it was all about brave and bold colours last year, 2021 will see warm and earthy tones take centre stage. We have seen a huge interest in these natural colours, especially since Dulux announced their colour of the year as Brave Ground and Farrow & Ball revealed the on-trend colours for 2021, from clean and timeless blues to dark greens.
'By opting for a natural colour scheme, you can bring the outside in and create a connection with nature from the comfort of your own home. Not only can they be paired with an array of colours, but these soothing earthy tones and biophilic colour schemes benefit our mental health and wellness.'
If you fancy using a natural palette in your kitchen, check out our tips for using earth tones in your home decor.
Bespoke furniture
'Open shelves and bespoke storage will be a popular choice for 2021 as these add interest to the kitchen and create the sense that the space is more open than it is. In a minimalist kitchen, these shelves give you the option to show off your best buys without creating any clutter and can be decorated with anything from plants to crockery.
'Boot rooms are also a fantastic way of creating a functional space that the whole family can use, keeping mud and mess in one place.
Bronze accessories
'The best way to accentuate a kitchen design is by adding in colourful, complementary accessories to the space.
Rose gold was the colour of 2020 but 2021 will see light, bright metallic colours as a key design trend which will be best utilised through the clever pairing of accessories.
'Bronze accents look to be popular colour choices when it comes to door handles, taps and even sinks. These bronze accessories are a great match for the soothing, warm colour palette that will be a popular choice for kitchen cabinetry next year.'
Natural elements
'Acrylic and solid surface worktops are starting to emulate more and more the look of authentic stone and natural surfaces. We predict that this trend will continue to grow, especially with the introduction of surfaces showing bold marble vein patterns, helping to create a cost-effective yet luxurious appearance in the kitchen.
'These pair perfectly with the trend for muted colour schemes in the kitchen but are also a long-term investment as the neutral colour can be matched with practically any cabinetry.'
Multi-functional spaces
'The kitchen as we know it has dramatically changed this year. With more people working from home and many facing local lockdowns, we need a functional room that can easily change from a working space in the day to a social space in the evening.
People want storage solutions to not only store kitchen essentials, but also office supplies. Homeowners also need a workstation that can become a dining area where the family can eat and socialise.
'We have seen a huge demand for kitchen furniture that doubles up in its function. For example, an island or breakfast bar that works as both a storage area and place for dining is set to be a key design choice for 2021.'
Smarter storage
'The trend for clever storage continues to be a key design choice due to the practicality it offers. From bi-fold dressers to tower and corner larders, storage can be both a design and practical trend. Storage is, and will continue to be, a big part of the kitchen space.
'For those with smaller kitchens, the need for clever storage in this space is crucial in terms of efficiently utilising the room you have. In bigger, minimalist kitchens, clever storage allows for clutter to be easily tidied away. Many homeowners are adding more storage solutions into their kitchens as a way of storing their office supplies as they adapt to working from home indefinitely.'
Open-plan living
'More than ever before, kitchens are a social space which act as the hub of the home. Open plan living is continuously on the rise and by creating one large, open room, families can spend more time together. The trend for open plan kitchens sees homeowners extend the kitchen into connected areas of the home.
'Designers can get really creative, introducing integrated seating areas or even media centres in connected spaces. This can make the kitchen seem larger and is a great way to create cohesion in the overall design.'
Check out our guide to the new bathroom styles to watch in 2021 – or see all our features on decor trends for 2021 here.