2020 Kitchen Trends

As the year comes to an end and we head into a new decade, our attentions turn to what trends we will start to see coming through in the New Year. From nature-inspired colours and textures to a turn towards more flexible design, 2019 has paved the way for what looks like an interesting and exciting time for kitchen trends.

Here at Cullifords, we’re proud to work with a number of respected kitchen retailers, fabricators and interior designers. It is thanks to these relationships that we’re able to spot the trends coming through, taking into account the popularity of certain materials, colourways and finishes. Read on for some insight into the kitchen trends we think we’ll be seeing more of in 2020. 

Brave Colour Combinations

Long gone are the days where the kitchen is restricted to a neutral colour palette. Over the past few years as colour confidence has grown with homeowners and designers, colour has been making its way into the kitchen in a number of different ways. Not simply restricted to cabinetry, colour is set to be injected into kitchens through cupboards, surfaces, accessories, wall colours and much more.

What’s more, we’re sure to see a rise in brave colour combinations. People are very rarely sticking to one or two shades, but instead are opting for a variety of tones, textures and finishes to create truly unique and versatile kitchens, filled with personal touches and character. 

Mixing Materials & Finishes

A trend we’ve seen on the rise throughout 2019, we’re certain that we’ll be seeing even more combinations of materials and finishes in the kitchen next year. The most interesting way we have seen this trend develop is through the integration of different worktops and surfaces in one kitchen – something which homeowners wouldn’t have dreamed of a few years ago! Now, we are seeing an increased desire to pair up varying finishes, in particular in kitchens that feature a freestanding island. From high gloss to matte worktops, to statement marbles paired with a more neutral marble-effect quartz, there are so many combinations that will work well – we can’t wait to see what unique mixtures come through in 2020!

Open-Plan

Whilst not a new trend, open-plan living doesn’t appear to be going anywhere soon. A reflection of how we’re choosing to living our lives, open-plan kitchens will remain popular in particular as we see more people renovating their homes. From islands with breakfast bars, integrated seating and plenty of space and light, open-plan kitchens bring together all aspects of the home, from cooking and dining to entertaining and family time.

The Rise of the Un-Kitchen

Arguably a development of the trend for open-plan living, the ‘un-kitchen’ or ‘anti-kitchen’ is fast becoming a norm within our homes. Open shelving, soft furnishings and more freestanding furniture will guide this trend and will blur and soften the boundaries between the rest of the home and the kitchen – truly bringing together all aspects of living into a harmonious flow.

Dark Kitchens

Bold colour confidence isn’t just limited to bright colours. Dark kitchens are set to continue to take the kitchen world by storm in 2020. From deep navy to the darkest black, homeowners and designers just don’t seem to be scared of really going for it anymore when it comes to bringing darker tones into the home. Whether contrasted with lighter worktops, flooring or splashbacks or in an all-out and all-over approach, darker kitchen schemes are surprisingly versatile and in some cases work much better with available light and space in a home than lighter options.

Brass Finishes

The rise in popularity of brushed brass in the home has extended into all rooms, from bathroom brassware, to living room accessories and of course the kitchen. Whether it’s through accessories, metallic cabinet handles or modern metallic tap, we don’t see the trend for brass going anywhere in 2020.

Statement Islands

That’s right; statement islands are here to stay! Tying into the desire to create truly unique and personalised spaces, homeowners and designers are increasingly turning to the central island to make their statement and put their individual stamp on the space.  Whether with a waterfall worktop or simply in a standout surface choice, the island will remain a key focal and talking point when it comes to kitchen design, for next year and many more to come.

Updated Industrial Style

Historically associated with a laid-back, urban aesthetic, industrial design has seen a number of developments over the past decade. A move on from the classic exposed brick wall and raw copper accents, it seems that a new and updated take on industrial design is making its way into our kitchens for 2020. The touches of metal and an overall laid-back feel is still there, but imagine a less obvious, less ‘in your face’ take on industrial  – rather a celebration of relaxed style with added touches of luxury, in particular when it comes to surface choices, appliances and fixtures and fittings.