September feels like a natural new beginning, a fresh start, so if you have a kitchen facelift on the cards then let us provide some inspiration …
So far, 2024 has seen many trends for kitchens, some good, some not-so-good. Here, we have collated the best trends we’ve seen this year, those that will stand the test of time and that could be just what you were looking for to give your kitchen a makeover…
Floor to ceiling cabinets
Kitchen experts, designers and new homeowners are not messing around when it comes to storage – everyone is packing in storage where they can and that often means letting cabinets rise up to the ceiling. We think it looks great and is certainly practical. Always put your less-used appliances and items at the top shelves and the ones you use the most at the bottom. www.mcnallyliving.ie
Butcher block countertop
The butcher block, or a timber, oak or walnut countertop adds so much warmth to a room and looks beautifully rustic – in a restrained way. Met with contemporary features, the timber-top or butcher block countertop always looks great. You can make it as wide and thick as you like – or add on a separate big block to your counter so you can use it for chopping and preparing. www.oconnorsofdrumleck.ie
Shades of blue
Various shades of blue have become very popular in 2024 and we do love them. From deep navy blue to paler pastel tones this maritime colour evokes a calmness and serenity in the room whether you realise it or not. With navy, a light, bright quartz countertop always looks impactful. Pale blue will also look good with white, but for a super glamorous feel, how about a caramel marble countertop on light blue cabinetry? Now there is a statement. www.blockhousebuild.co.uk
Split-level island
A split-level, two-tier, step-down island, or breakfast bar is something we have seen cropping up time and time again this year and we do understand why. This split-level island is a great way for bringing the family together and keeping everyone in the same room while food preparation can be underway at the same time as homework. This could be a nice addition for a September start. www.kubeinteriors.com
Pantries
We’ll say it once and we will say it again – pantries are everywhere – if homeowners do have the extra room for a pantry, then let it be said that they are very useful. We’re talking food storage, organisation, preparation space, space for appliances, and even more storage for utensils and whatever else you might need. The beauty of a pantry is that you can really design it for your taste, it’s hidden from your guests’ view so you can form it to suit your vision. www.herringbonekitchens.com
Standalone island
2024 has seen a rise in the incorporation of antiques or free-standing pieces of furniture in the kitchen. If you are getting a kitchen remodel, why not give a standalone or free-standing island a go? This can be anything from a dining table you can use as a surface or an antique side table that you found in a vintage showroom. Ranging from small to large, we have seen it all and it does add an authentic charm and character to the space. www.devolkitchens.co.uk
Waterfall countertop
Sounds rather dreamy. This is what we are seeing and what kitchen designers and manufacturers are saying: waterfall counter tops are trending massively. Your chosen surface material, be it quartz, marble or wood will run down the side of your kitchen island or peninsula and create a free-flowing space. www.bespace.ie
Open shelving
As we spend more time in our kitchen, we inevitably want to add more personality to it. More and more people are incorporating open shelving with which you can place your own personal belongings. Through art and various personal additions you can let your personality shine through and decorate the room anyway you want. www.herringbonekitchens.com
Industrial fridge freezers
American style, industrial size, double-door fridge freezers are in high demand this year. If you have a busy family life, love to cook or are simply looking for a modern, fuss-free functional fridge (we have all had dodgy ones) then this style is a great one to go for. The IQ500 American side by side fridge from Siemens is a great option. This fridge is great for family life. The highlights? You can keep your freezer frost-free with Siemens’ noFrost technology, there is also cold water and ice available on tap, it is easy to clean with the surface of brushed steel with antiFingerprint properties and there is plenty of space for your food items with Siemens’ focus on bigCapacity. If you are looking for ways to update your kitchen and make it feel more contemporary – a new fridge is a good way to get started. Read more about it here; www.siemens-home.bsh-group.com.
