Dramatically different: kitchen trends for 2019

Fashions in kitchen design historically haven’t changed much from year to year; in fact since we waved goodbye to the coloured Formica of the 1960s and 70s there’s been a growing trend for kitchens that blend in with subtle neutrality rather than standing out.

However over the last year or two, we’ve watched with interest as the tide has started to turn; with colour creeping back in and the kitchen becoming a showcase for your personality and style.

As we move into 2019 trend watchers are telling us that detail is king; this year, it will be the quirks and individual elements of your kitchen that will also ensure it’s bang on trend!

Of course, some of the key trends for the year ahead can only be incorporated as part of a larger kitchen remodeling project – we’ll be seeing some really unusual finishes for cabinets and work surfaces in particular – but other elements, such as taps, handles, lighting and accessories, can be added to your existing kitchen as a way to update the look without spending a fortune. Here’s a look at some of our favourite upcoming trends…

Aged metal

Image: DeVOL Kitchens
Image: Smeg UK

Say goodbye to clinical stainless steel and hello to heavily distressed and chemically processed metal surfaces! Copper is a major player in this trend due to the kaleidoscope of colours it displays when aged by hand to a rich verdigris finish. Other trends to look out for are French style ornamental tin tiles, and tactile hammered brass. You’ll see plenty of brushed and burnished copper and brass accents in handles and taps too.

Range renaissance
Once a staple item in any country kitchen, the range is undergoing a total image overhaul thanks to companies like Smeg which has collaborated with none other than Dolce & Gabbana to produce a limited run of exquisitely patterned range cookers, or cookware giant Le Creuset which has lent its name and vibrant colour palette to a new range from Italian manufacturer, Steel.

Image: Fired Earth

Engineered stone
Whether you prefer the more industrial feel of polished concrete or the decadence of terrazzo, these composite surfaces first arrived on the scene in early 2018 and they look set to become even more popular! From flooring to worktops, tables to tiles they bring amazing texture and raw beauty to any space.

Patterned tiles
Victorian-inspired design and the arts and crafts movement of the late 19th century are having a major moment right now – after years of plain (and dare we say insipid) interior trends, it seems we are all craving a little more pattern in our lives! Patterned tiles are the obvious choice for kitchens – whether on floors or in decorative splashbacks, they’re a perfect way to bring colour and personality to any space.


Industrial lighting
The industrial trend looks set to stick around indefinitely but if your home isn’t exactly ‘NYC loft’ then lighting is a great way to reference the trend without going all in. Think bold brass bulkheads, exposed Edison bulbs and utilitarian fisherman’s pendants – all of which can bring surprising softness and texture to the kitchen.


Outdoor/indoor
Feeding into a general eco consciousness, the idea of linking indoors and out is never more appropriate than in the kitchen. Glazing plays a critical role and the big trend for 2019 is bold, Crittall-style steel framed windows and doors that open out into the garden for alfresco dining. Features such as indoor herb gardens, living walls or a simple abundance of houseplants lends earthy appeal.