1: The trend of new kitchens is an allover muted color palette – white is dominant but grays, creams, and soft pastels are also prevalent. Bright colors can be used as accents, making them changeable with season or homeowner. Stained wood in medium to light colors is an alternative to paint.

2: Simple lines, less fussy details, and fewer frills not only help with budget considerations but match with busy lives.

3: Kitchen spaces opened to other living spaces, primarily dining and family rooms. Everyone together for time together or big gatherings.

4: Stainless appliances are still here, although with the light cabinet colors, white appliances are also being purchased. More appliances planned beyond the basic four. Wine or beverage coolers, steam ovens, wok burners, built in and dedicated coffee areas, warming drawers, and drawer microwaves are some of the newest appliances that can need a place in kitchens.

5: Granite sinks in a range of colors to coordinate with countertops.

6: Quartz instead of granite for countertops. More worry-free and non-porous, making it resistant to stains; non-toxic, non-allergenic, with many options.

7: Smart areas for electronic charging and storage are rising in popularity and, with every member of the family having a device or two, there are plenty of cables to plan for.

8: Large, deep drawers to make storage and access easier more and convenient.

9: Brass is back, although in a more warm and refined way. Satin not shiny finishes for everything from faucets to hardware, frequently as an accent with natural or rustic materials.

10: Vent hoods in metals – stainless, copper, color, or brass in addition to wood hoods. These metals can coordinate with other metals used in the space for faucets, hardware, and lights.

11: Using texture for contrast instead of strong color. Having subtle differences and giving attention to details for a calmer, relaxed but interesting feel.

12: Lighting, lighting, lighting everywhere. Above, inside, below cabinetry; recessed in ceilings and toekicks; sometimes with dimmers; usually LED for light quality, heat control, and environmental concerns.

13: Attention to aging in place concerns, where wanting or needing to stay put is a reality and possibility. Clearances and thinking about future access in kitchens, bathrooms, doorways and halls.