What’s resonating when it comes to 2022 kitchen designs? Get the trend breakdown from today’s top talents as they dish on popular asks, tried-and-true staples, and the secrets to designing for everyday life.
Durable elements are in—and so are bold kitchens. “The moody kitchen is definitely having a moment and we believe it has longevity equal to a kitchen with white cabinetry,” says designer Philip Thomas Vanderford.
Philip Thomas Vanderford
Studio Thomas James, Dallas
What’s In: Long-Lasting Elements
“More and more of our kitchens are featuring durable surfaces, such as quartzite, that still provide the beautifully natural look our clients want, but stand the test of time with less staining and upkeep.”
“It’s really important to carefully think through the appliance order as the baseline to the start of the design process,” Atlanta-based designer Beth Webb offers.
Beth Webb
Beth Webb Interiors, Atlanta
On Tap: Ancillary Areas
“Clients are requesting additional spaces, like pantries and sculleries. Everyone wants additional space for warming drawers and wine towers. People are enjoying being home to dine so they are maximizing their space in a utilitarian but still beautiful way.”
“Good logical workflow and a clear understanding of how the clients will use the kitchen is key,” says designer Christopher Peacock, whose cabinetry is featured in this project by Jessie D. Miller.
Christopher Peacock
Christopher Peacock, New York City
Seeing More: Enclosed, Yet Open Spaces
“I am seeing a lot of enclosed kitchen spaces; but within those spaces, the designs tend to be more open, with wall shelving and less “built in”-looking cabinetry. Additionally, an eclectic organic feel of mixed textures and materials is very welcoming and bistro-like, and this is certainly popular.”
For Louisiana designer Penny Francis, the ultimate kitchen is one that meets a client’s every need, whether that’s a desire for a coffee corner or a request for pet food storage solutions.
Penny Francis
Eclectic Home, New Orleans
New Rule: You Call The Shots
“The perfect kitchen triangle is no longer priority. In fact, kitchens are now designed around the habits of the clients—how they work, live, and cook in the space.”
Together with SHR Contracting, designer Hillary Matt orchestrated this statement kitchen featuring Panda marble from Bas Stone and an oven by Lacanache.
Hilary Matt
Hilary Matt Interiors, New York City
Focal Point: Bold Additions
“Statement ranges and marble hoods add an edge to a kitchen and really give the space some personality. A marble hood is so unique to the space it is in, and since it is always custom, it adds that extra detail into the design that makes it stand out.”
Form meets function in this leather and brass wine storage unit by Jean Liu Design. The custom wine shelf is by Jean Liu Design, with leather by Fabricut.
Jean Liu
Jean Liu Design, LLC, Dallas
Noticing: More Eyes On Appliances
“Homeowners want to incorporate innovative pieces like refrigerator drawers that allow them to change the temperature from freezer to fridge, from fridge to pantry so any and all their kitchen storage needs can be met with the ease of one appliance. Another request that is quite telling of the last few years is wine storage, whether it’s a shelf or a wine refrigerator.”
What makes a kitchen an enjoyable gathering spot? Beyond installing large islands where guests can gather, kitchen designer Mick De Giulio says his team often incorporates furniture, soft seating and fireplaces into nearby areas.
Mick De Giulio
de Giulio kitchen design, Wilmette, Illinois
Common Denominator: Comfort Is King
“Regardless of age, people use the same expression when describing what they want from their kitchen: ‘I want a kitchen we can hang out in.’”
“Bringing nature indoors doesn’t mean it needs to be earthy,” says designer Brian Brown. “Using and highlighting horizontal plains makes the mind think of a horizon.”
Brian Brown
Brian Brown Studio, San Diego
On Board With: A Green Direction
“Bringing in elements of nature, with color and texture give a calming and serene vibe to a kitchen. Also, using materials that are environmentally sound add to that by knowing you’re being a steward of the environment.”
Walnut-and-brass pulls, together with recessed-metal panels, accent the painted kitchen cabinetry in this project by Karen Ferguson. The custom hood combines pewter and brass that carries through the kitchen. The appliances are by Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove.
Karen Ferguson
Harrison Design, Atlanta
On The Radar: Creative Combos
“A mix of textures and materials make a space feel warm and comforting, like the extension of a living space. There are so many appliances available, so creating areas that are high-function and high-design is the ultimate luxury.”
In this relaxed kitchen space by designer Mary Patton, a Visual Comfort & Co. fixture hangs above a quartzite-topped island, painted in Farrow & Ball’s Plummet. Jamesdar Kurv counter chairs in black/natural provide ample seating at the island.
Mary Patton
Mary Patton Design, Houston
Call For: Tranquil Vibes
“Clients have been asking for kitchen spaces that evoke a balance of serenity and sophistication. As you can imagine, the kitchen has become a focal point and high-traffic area in the home, so they want a foundational design that’s streamlined and can be customized with life.”
“We’ve really set out with the intention of warming up the kitchen to make it a happy, homey place not just to cook, but to live your life” say Chicago-area designers Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto.
Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto
Park & Oak Design, Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Character-Builder: An Embrace Of Warm Details
“Little changes make a big difference in achieving a homey place: mesh inserts or frosted glass on upper cabinets, spaces for artwork, open shelves for collectibles, warm wood stains. By incorporating these details into kitchen designs, you elevate it from a simple workspace to a true living space.”
