Guest Post - Top 12 Kitchen Design Trends for 2021

Every year brings us new trends to follow. Hopefully, 2021 will bring us a healthier and happier year. So, in that name, we should reorganize and redesign the place where the health and happiness come from- the kitchen! 

Kitchen is one of the most visited spaces in each house. It is used for hanging out, preparing meals and sometimes for dining. Therefore, you need to prepare your kitchen to be according to the latest trends. What can you do?

Instead of blindly guessing this year’s trends, check out these 12 kitchen designs that will make your entire year better. Try some of these top 2021 kitchen trends. 

1. Colorful kitchen islands

Believe it or not, kitchen islands will continue to dominate the kitchen trend scene in 2021. Large kitchens that will have enough space to implement a kitchen island will be extremely popular. So, if you have a chance to install the kitchen island, do it, but don’t make it ordinary!

New 2021 is all about originality and novelty. Out with the old, in with the new! Instead of aiming for the classic kitchen island, add some personality to it. Choose a color that will match your kitchen and paint your kitchen island. Deep blue, green or wine red will be a big hit this year. So, hop on the bandwagon and be one of the first people to try out this new trend. 

2. Warm colors

Even though white kitchens will never go out of style, you won’t make a mistake if you enrich your kitchen with some warmer colors. Warm tones will be one of the biggest trends in 2021, and that doesn’t only include the appliances. 

If you want to follow this trend, consider repainting your cabinets and walls. Even something simple such as a creamy colored wall can contribute to the warm atmosphere in your kitchen. Just like comfort foods, comfort colors are the best way to highlight the homey feeling in your house. That’s why you should strive for warmer colors such as beige, aqua and orange. 

3. Different texture

Not keen on colorful kitchens? You have nothing to worry about as this year trends will also go beyond colors. It’s time to mix and match the different textures in your cooking area and enjoy the originality of your kitchen. 

Be daring and consider white bricks on the wall completed with the black marble countertops. This will perfectly match the natural wooden floor and brass latches and hinges on the cabinets. Experiment with some black finishing touches and your new, unique kitchen is ready to be used.

4. Specialty ovens

As we’re spending more time in our homes, cooking has become a daily activity for many families. Restaurant trips and take-outs have been replaced by the home-made cooked meals. Therefore, we can notice the growing trend of purchasing specialty ovens for your kitchen.

Specialty ovens can be practical. They can combine a traditional oven and a microwave into a single product and save you space and money. Most of them use steam to cook your food which also has a positive influence on your health. Due to the increasing lifestyle changes that started in 2020 and continue to 2021, these specialty ovens will be a healthier alternative to microwaves.

5. Touchless tech

No matter how hard we try to minimize the effects of the global pandemic, it still influences our daily life and habits. We wash our hands and things around the house more frequently to prevent the virus from spreading. However, we sometimes forget that we have to use our dirty and clean hands to open and close the faucet. That’s why touchless technology will be one of the biggest hits in 2021.

Besides motion sensor faucets in your sink that will make washing the dishes and fruits and veggies easier and more convenient, touchless tech has countless benefits. It will save water and money on utility bills; it will minimize the contamination and virus spreading and many more. So, no matter what type of kitchen you have, adding touchless technology can make your life easier and better.

6. Hidden appliances

Not everyone is a fan of stainless steel and industrial-looking kitchens. That style has bees extremely popular last year, so it's time to take it a step further and introduce a neat style that is based on hidden appliances. Who'd want to look at their refrigerator or dishwasher all day long?

But how can you create hidden appliances? One of the best things you can do is add fronts that will mimic your cabinets. That’s how you won’t be able to tell your cabinetry and fridge apart. This will create a nice and tidy blended look in your kitchen.

7. Open shelves

Do you have kitchenware you're particularly proud of? Why don’t you display it in your kitchen like a small exhibit? You're probably thinking that it will create an additional mess and make your kitchen look untidy. However, if you implement open shelves and plate holders in your kitchen, you'll have an ideal place to show off your cute cups, lovely plates and other cutlery.

Besides looking magnificent, open shelves are practical. As everything you use daily is displayed, you won’t have troubles finding the stuff you need. However, you shouldn’t forget cleaning your plated, glasses and cups before you use them as the dust from the kitchen may have gotten to them. 

8. Increased storage

You’ve probably been in the situation to buy food in bulks due to the quarantine and lockdowns. You’ve also probably noticed how much space does the food take. That’s why in 2021, you’ll need to implement a larger storage space in your kitchen.

One of the main upgrades should be focused on food preservation. Even though you have a freezer in your home, to preserve larger quantities of food for a longer period, you'll need an upgrade. That's why getting a larger freezer is a must-have in 2021. Besides that, consider the storage place for small kitchen appliances, such as waffle makers, toasters and mixers. Keep them safely stored away from the children. 

9. Marble countertops

Are you keen on expensive looks and posh styles? If so, marble countertops are the ideal choice for you. Even though marble has been popular before, this year it will get a special spotlight in your fancy kitchen.

One of the best things about marble is no matter how and where you use it, it will look delightful. Paired with colorful fruit baskets and kitchen countertop plants, marble is the perfect option for those who aim for an expensive kitchen look. Besides looking marvellous, marble is easy to clean and maintain in the style kitchen. 

10. Eco-friendly kitchen

Taking care of the environment and the planet is extremely popular now. To live an eco-friendly life, you don’t only need to change your lifestyle and habits, but also your home. What can you do to create a greener kitchen and sustainable space?

One of the easiest things you can do is recycle. Create separate bins for plastic, organic waste, glass and paper, and stick to it. There are many benefits of sustainable kitchens, one of the main being saving money. If you implement LED light bulbs and smart thermostats, you’ll be able to save energy and money in your kitchen. Add some plants to freshen up your space and make it seem greener. 

11. Terra Cotta style

What is your first thought when you hear the words terra cotta? Most people instantly think about Italian styles, warm earthy colors and potted plants. And they are right! Who said that traditional can't be beautiful? If you're a fan of unique, yet traditional kitchen styles, you're on the right track.

Pair warm terra cotta tiles with sophisticated countertops to create an atmosphere that is ideal for cooking. You’ll never want to get out of your kitchen! Don’t forget to include the durable kitchen floor mats in your cooking area to relieve the stress from your feet after cooking for the entire day. Besides that, floor mats can provide additional safety and style in your kitchen. They can be matched with unique brass and colorful tiles, which creates warm and cozy vibes you crave.

12. Bring back the rustic

Even though the rustic style has made its way back some time ago, new rustic is modern now. For this trend, you don't have to invest large sums of money. All you can do is keep the old furniture and create a rustic atmosphere in your home.

If you’re renovating your kitchen, make sure to avoid common mistakes for kitchen renovation. For new rustic style, you just need some paint to renew the cabinets and furniture. On top of that, stick to wooden ornaments and details to recreate the old kitchens our grandmas used to have.

Conclusion

Designs and trends change from time to time. New 2021 brings us a little bit of everything for everyone. You can surely find a style that suits your needs and likings. So, be amongst the first ones to implement these trends in your kitchen.  

Author Bio

Jasmine Anderson is a Sydney based lifestyle blogger and a toddler mom. She loves to spend quality time with her family, go thrifting, and spend just a little bit too much time on the internet.  twitter: https://twitter.com/AndersonJess_AJ

Tips for Coming Up With a Realistic Plan for Building Your Dream Home

Building your dream home is not a walk in the park. It is a complex journey that defines who you are, where you want to live, and how you want to live. As with a typical journey, you will need to research and plan for your trip. While doing your research is paramount, you will also need a few tips to guide you along the way.

Here are tips for coming up with a realistic plan for building your dream home.

Set Realistic Goals

Building your dream home is one of the most important goals you will ever set in life. While setting your goals, consider satisfying your brain's two sides; the practical and emotional side. This will ensure that the result will be a reflection of what you have always wanted.

Establish a Budget

Come up with a realistic budget that details out how you will approach every phase of your project. Start with what you can afford and create a plan to finance your house's completion soon. Remember to include the cost of all things you will need to complete your project, such as general contractor fee, cost of land, taxes, and designers fee, among others.

Buy Land or a Neglected Older House

Identify where you want to build your home. Do you want a house in the mountains or near an ocean? Whatever your aspirations are, make sure you consider them when building your dream home. You can buy a plain piece of land or purchase land with an old house. You can transform an old neglected house into an eye-catching modern mansion with a cost-effective budget.

Assemble a Team of Professionals

It's very risky to approach a home building project without the guidance of renowned professionals. Entrust your largest investment to dedicated professionals who will ensure that the end product conforms to the plan.

Accept Challenges

You have your plan with you, all the permits, and secured finances; now, you are focusing on starting your construction project. You have accounted for everything to ensure that all falls in place, right?

However good you are at planning, stuff happens. How you will handle hiccups, make a significant difference. Strive to stay calm and work closely with your team to address the issue on time. The benefit of working with a team of professionals is that they won't blame each other for the mistakes. Instead, they will look for ways to make the situation better.

Guest Post - How to Elevate Your Bathroom to Futuristic Standards

When you think about making modern home upgrades, rooms like the kitchen or master bedroom might initially come to mind. While these areas are important since you might be spending a lot of time there, don’t neglect your bathroom in the process. 

Smart homes and houses that feature futuristic technology are becoming more popular than ever. And, it’s easier to make your bathroom fit in with that futuristic, luxurious look than you may realize. 

With that in mind, let’s look at a few easy, practical ways to upgrade and elevate your bathroom to futuristic standards. By making some changes, you can create a luxurious spa-like feel in the comfort of your own home. 

Focus on Conservation

The environment is a hot topic right now because more people are starting to take notice of the dangers we’re facing. Climate change is a serious issue, but so is water conservation. Water demand has tripled over the last 50 years, and continues to get even greater. Thankfully, when it comes to the water used in your bathroom, there are several different upgrades you can make to use less and do more for the planet, including: 

• Installing a low-flow toilet to save up to 27,000 gallons of water a year

• Checking all faucets for leaks

• Attaching water-saving showerheads

• Installing aerators for your faucets

If you really want to invest in an upgrade, consider buying a new water heater or water softener. Most models today are more energy efficient and can lower your utility bills. Plus, if you belong to the 85% of American homes with hard water, a new water softener can help to keep your bathroom looking cleaner. Your tub, toilet, and sink won’t get yellow/brown rust stains, which will keep everything sparkling and looking more modern. 

The more you’re willing to update in your bathroom when it comes to appliances and accessories that can help with water conservation, the more you’re protecting the environment in the future. 

Let There Be Light

The lighting in your bathroom can make a big difference in the overall look and feel. Modern, large-scale lighting can make your bathroom look more futuristic and luxurious in an instant. Don’t be afraid to get creative and bold with your lighting choices. Installing a chandelier as an accent light, for example, is a great way to make a statement and control the mood. 

Bath bar lights, sconces, and vanity lighting can also give your bathroom an updated look, especially if you’ve been dealing with the same lighting for years. 

If you really want to make your bathroom feel like a modern, expensive spa, consider layering your lighting. This is a technique most spas and salons use to set the right mood. Installing a dimmer switch is a great way to change the mood depending on what you’re doing. 

For example, if you want a nice, relaxing bath, setting the lights low can help you relax. You can use brighter lights in the morning when you’re showering and getting ready for the day. The simple addition of a dimmer can make a big difference in your overall control of the bathroom, and it can make it feel sleeker. 

These are, of course, just a few ideas to help you get started on your futuristic bathroom. Think about some of the features you would most like to see in your bathroom to make it feel more luxurious. Those features may be more ‘doable’ than you realize! 

The future is here, and it’s not impossible to make modern changes to your bathroom that will make things more convenient while bringing your space up to date. Additionally, by choosing energy-efficient, LED bulbs in your fixtures, you’ll be doing another great service to the planet!

Author Bio: Noah Rue is a freelance writer.

Current Design Trends to Incorporate in Your Kitchen Remodel

Families spend much of their time in the kitchen, so this crucial gathering place must be as well-designed as possible. Today's home designers often create kitchens that are open and prominent because this functional room is the home's heart and operations center. More people are opting to cook meals from home these days, so kitchens are becoming more and more important to people. Carefully planned kitchen remodeling that considers current design trends can make a substandard kitchen shine and give a home the greatest appeal if it's put on the market.

Light and Organic With Large Islands

White, beige, or other light-colored quartz countertops and natural-colored cabinets are among anticipated top trends in kitchens for 2021 and beyond, according to recent research conducted by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Subway-style backsplashes, organic materials and dedicated device charging, and viewing stations are also trending. Large islands will remain a prominent design element, according to the survey, and L-shaped kitchens will be trendier than ever before.

Pop of Color

If neutral color schemes aren’t your thing, you’re in luck. Colorful cabinets have been all over social media and design blogs. An easy way to make your kitchen modern is by painting the cabinets a shade of green or blue. This trend can even become timeless if done correctly. And if trends change in the future, you can just easily paint over the cabinets. You can also choose neutral cabinets, but decide to add your pop of color to your backsplash or walls. Choose an accent wall to paint a trendy color. This is a non-committal way to make your kitchen trendy.

Small-Space Design

Many people are drawn to smaller spaces. The minimalist way of living is becoming more and more popular. This is manifesting in people’s kitchen areas. Utilizing the space you have is key because of this. Instead of purchasing a large dining room table, add a bar table and chairs into your kitchen. Instead of filling your countertops with appliances, purchase an all-in-one toaster oven or air fryer. Don’t overcrowd your kitchen with decor either. Clean and empty countertops are more desirable right now. Remember the phrase “less is more” if you want to achieve a minimalist and compact feel in your kitchen. 

Trendy Hardware

One of the easiest ways to make your kitchen up-to-date is in the hardware. You don’t have to completely tear up your kitchen and add new cabinets, countertops, and flooring. Brass hardware is especially trendy right now. Find some new brass knobs for your cabinets. If you do want to complete a total home remodel, pairing brass hardware with green or blue cabinets will make your home perfectly on trend for the coming year. Another simple way to add some warming hardware to your kitchen is through your faucet. Statement faucets are also predicted to be on trend next year. These may cost you a few hundred dollars, but can make a large difference in your kitchen overall. 

Smart Kitchens Have Arrived

Appliances that are linked to smart home controllers or mobile phone apps are no longer something of the future. Adding smart refrigerators and stoves is possible at any time, but kitchen remodeling is a perfect opportunity to add sensors, smart gadgets and other innovations that may not have been available when the kitchen was built. This can include upgraded LED lighting that can be dimmed and turned on or off without switches. Smart faucets that sense when hands or pots are present under them are available now too.

Hardwood Flooring Still Trending

Some ornate aspects of traditional kitchens are fading away in favor of simpler design elements, but one thing that hasn't faded in its appeal in recent years is hardwood flooring. This classic floor covering is expected to remain the most popular choice for many years to come. For homeowners who want something different, ceramic flooring is now trending because of its wide range of sizes, styles, and designs. In fact, tile is available that looks like hardwood but is even more durable. Ceramic tile that looks like stone is also popping up in more kitchens than in years past.

In 2021, trendy homeowners will be looking for simple, natural design as well as sophistication in appearance and capabilities in their kitchen remodels and in every aspect of life. The ideal kitchen combines personal style with trends that will endure to create a kitchen that meets a family's needs, reflects its style, and doesn't feel dated before it wears out.