I was recently asked to comment for Kitchen and Bathrooms Quarterly on trends and what the enduring qualities are to a long lasting renovation. Great question. As you might know I’m not a fan of trends but I reflected on my ten years’ experience designing kitchens and bathrooms to provide a response. Here’s how to create an enduring kitchen or bathroom.
Enduring element for kitchen design
The kitchen is a showcase space in any home. Whether a house or apartment, the kitchen sets the stylistic tone for your home.
The reason why kitchens set the stylistic tone for your home is because kitchens generally have the most specifications compared to a bedroom for example.
Typical specifications for a kitchen include;
- Tap/Mixer
- Sink
- Cabinetry colour/s
- Door, cupboard and drawer profile
- Handles
- Splashback
- Benchtop
- Pendant lighting for kitchen counter
- All surfaces ie flooring, walls, ceilings.
So reflecting on what is an enduring elements I believe finger pull cabinetry is an enduring element to kitchen interior design.
The reason for this is because they provide a seamless, modern finish but are flexible to work with a range of interior styles and cabinetry profiles.
Whether you want a Hampton’s kitchen or Industrial kitchen, finger pull handles will work.
Enduring element for bathroom design
When reflecting on an enduring element for a bathroom renovation I thought beyond the usual suspects such as feature wall tiles or free standing baths.
Instead I think strip lighting is a long lasting aesthetic and functional design element to consider in a bathroom renovation.
Mood or ambient lighting is valuable in a bathroom because we don’t always need bright white light. Bright white light in a bathroom is important for some things, for example shaving.
But if you’re just going to the toilet or want to have a bath you don’t need bright functional light. Instead mood lighting will suffice and therefore strip lighting around the vanity zone is a good idea.
Many vanities come with this add on functionality, so it’s easy to incorporate. Alternatively you might consider wall sconces for mood, ambient lighting in the bathroom.
Beyond trends for kitchen and bathroom renovation
The best way to create an enduring kitchen or bathroom renovation is to design in line with your own interior style preferences.
Of course it’s ok to look at various sources such as reality TV and social media for inspiration. But it’s important to craft a kitchen or bathroom that is as unique and individual as you are.
If you’re worried about resale value don’t be. Because in my experience every new buyer will do their own thing anyway.
Your home is your haven and it’s important to enjoy it and create a space you love rather than worrying about what other people think or what a potential buyer might think. Leave that up to your real estate agent and property stylist.
