Scottish retailer Kitchens International (KI) has revealed its predictions for kitchen design trends for 2017.
The two-time kbbreview Kitchen Retailer of the Year award winner – 2016 and 2014 – said it expects the trend for open-plan style kitchen and living spaces to continue into next year with a mixture of “clean lines” and “more organic curves”.
This trend, it claimed, would also help drive the growth of island units, which will “provide a sense of inclusion” during the cooking process.
Kitchens International designer Carol Cameron says: “An island can be the centre stage while entertaining or catching up with family or friends. It can change the dynamics of family life, or when entertaining. All of a sudden, a room that may have seemed essential becomes the most exciting and inviting room in the house.”
According to KI, neutral colours will remain very on-trend, especially greys and off-white tones. While matt, concrete effect and textured timber finishes, which are already proving popular, will continue to see growth next year.
In terms of ‘must-have’ products, the company said that the market for hot water taps shows no signs of slowing down in 2017.
“This is often the most sought-after item,” explained KI designer Heather Oliver. “We think it is the ultimate convenience product for fast-paced family life.”
It added that the importance of lighting and storage solutions in kitchen design would continue to grow over the next 12 months, thanks to the rapid pace of developments in both of these categories.
The company forecasted that long drawers, tall larder units, Le Mans corner units and energy-efficient LED feature lighting, will be some of the most sought-after items in the future.
Stuart Millar, a designer at KI, added: “We are seeing that homeowners are more educated and interested in products that are not only of a good design, but are also energy-efficient and kinder to the environment. Most reputable manufacturers will combine style with functionality and energy efficiency, so if you’re looking for a new kitchen for 2017, it’s worth ensuring your design ticks all the boxes.”