Courtesy of Judy Pagano of Gibson Sotheby's International Realty
BOSTON, MA - According to a recent report from HomeAdvisor’s Smart Home Strategist, homeowners had focused renovation efforts on bathrooms this year, but for 2019 they are moving their attention on to kitchens. The goal is to add value to the home while making an environment to foster wellness and reduce stress.
According to Home Advisor’s Home Expert, Dan DiClerico, “Wellness is going to be a huge theme for 2019. Many people are living longer, healthier lives, and they’re looking to the kitchen to support those efforts.”
DiClerico says that homeowners are going to primarily achieve this goal by doing a few things. They will purchase appliances to make their lives easier for cooking healthy like blenders and steam cookers. They will also create physical changes by adding large windows or glass sliding doors to bring the outdoors inside. Finally, earthy tones including blues and greens will be used to provide a sense of calm.
For anyone looking to implement some of these design ideas, you don’t have to necessarily do a full renovation. Here are some more details on the emerging trends.
Appliances - In 2019 we will see more popularity for appliances that promote healthy eating. People are using steam cookers to avoid using butter and oils as they reduce their fat and calorie intake. Blenders are also becoming more sought after with the ease of making healthy smoothies and soups. Manufacturers are already ahead of this curve by introducing more appliances in their line to cater to these needs.
Sliding Glass - For years there has been a focus on kitchens being made open to living areas, but a shift is being seen with kitchens now open to the outdoors. Adding glass doors that lead to outdoor space will extend your living space while bringing in more natural light to your interior.
Column Refrigerators - Column refrigerators have been becoming more popular where you can pair any size refrigerator with any size freezer column. This lets homeowners maximize their food storage based on their individual needs.
Calming Colors - DiClerico has shared that although white kitchens are not a thing of the past, blues and greens are slowly gaining popularity. Cabinetry has been seen in these colors and manufacturers of appliances are also introducing these colors into their lines as well.
Technology - Popular technology includes household items that are voice activated. For example, controlling your blinds or lights with voice activation makes creating a comfortable mood extremely simple to achieve. The right light will add a calming atmosphere and can also make your food look more appetizing.
What to Avoid - While they are not completely gone yet - marble, granite and stainless steel are losing their edge in the market. Homeowners are now using quartz and black stainless steel which are easier to keep clean and maintain.