By Monique Valeris, ELLE DECOR
As 2018 winds down, design experts have already started thinking about the trends to expect in the year ahead-especially those that will dominate kitchens. This year, we've seen everything from banquette seating to two-toned kitchen cabinetry, and while those will likely continue to play a role in kitchen designs of all styles, there's a whole new crop of design trends to consider for 2019.
Whether you're planning to remodel your kitchen or just open to inspiration for a simple refresh, consider this list from a selection of our go-to designers on the top kitchen trends to expect in 2019.
1) Contrasting Textures
"In 2019, a combination of contrasting textures and sleek finishes will be most interesting. Think mirrored backsplashes with highly-polished, chunky Calacatta oro marble work tops, or cupboards with textured bronze inlays and matte cupboard fronts with sandblasted timber for a layered urban glamour." - Katharine Pooley
2) Raw Materials
"In 2019, modern kitchen design will be about going to back to basics. Kitchens are being pared down to allow raw materials to shine on their own. Think wood, stone, shiplap, and jute." - Anne Hepfer
3) Integrated Appliances
"We will continue to see integrated appliances. We have hoods that are slim and turn on automatically that are stronger than some of the industrial ones we have seen in the past. Induction cooktops continue to be increasingly popular because of their seamless look. You no longer need to see appliances sticking out everywhere anymore and that’s the new face of luxury." - Young Huh
4) Pendant Light Fixtures
"Statement hanging pendants will be important in denoting different areas within an open-plan space. Anchoring the dining area will be particularly important and sculptural jewelry, like pendants in hard finishes with a mid-century Italian influence, will be popular in luxury developments." - Katharine Pooley
5) Digital Technology
"Digital technology will continue to drive innovations and new pleasures in the kitchen, giving homeowners ever more specific home appliances targeted to their tastes. Wifi-enabled espresso makers can prepare your morning cappuccino before you even get out of bed, and wine technology is evolving from big wine fridges to restaurant-quality single pour preservation systems. Why stop at opening one bottle when you can have a private tasting flight of four?" - Carolyn Pressly
6) Hunter Green
"A hunter green kitchen garners a myriad of adjectives from classic, welcoming, warm, cozy, luxe, best friend, especially when we introduce the use of walnut woods and leather door pulls to give a little pop. It really doesn't get much better than this color and I'm definitely feeling that it's going to be huge in 2019. I see so much hunter green and olive green in the market (and in fashion), that it's destined to happen." - Becky Shea
7) Tall Backsplashes
"Tall backsplashes clad with heavily veined marble such as Arabascatto or Calacutta Oro will be making waves in high brow design circles." - Katharine Pooley
8) Classic & Modern
"In 2019, kitchens will be a mix of classic and modern. People want modern amenities and integrated looks, but they don’t want their kitchens to look space aged. It’s the heart of the home and they want their kitchens to feel warm, welcoming, and attractive." - Young Huh
9) Matte Black
"Matte black will continue to be a predominant finish for kitchen fixtures, hardware accents, and even millwork profile details. Black feels fresh as a crisp accent color in light-colored kitchens, and black finishes are a way to add some drama without fully darkening your kitchen. On the flip side, lighting will be distinguished by lively jewel-toned colors that bring an intimate living room quality to the otherwise utilitarian kitchen." - Carolyn Pressly
10) Leather and Wood Drawer Pulls
"Folks want organic, and organic we'll give them! We're seeing a huge movement away from the traditional polished chrome and nickel knob and pull, to hardware that has a little more warmth and depth to it. Used in moderation, on an island or a hutch, this is something I definitely see thriving in 2019 and a lot of our clients are gravitating towards this subtle yet impactful detail on their millwork." - Becky Shea
