Gray is the New White

Wondering what color you should paint your cabinets? The kitchen industry’s leading manufacturers say that while white cabinets continue to be tops, gray is the shade they’re betting on the to take white’s top spot.

Check out new functionality

Colors are not the only thing changing; check out the new hardware coming out on the scene, such as hydraulic, easy-close doors that fold up and out of the way with the touch of a button – making them a godsend in kitchens that are tight on space.

Classic Black and White Palette

Although this look may change as styles continue to evolve, but the appeal of a black-and-white kitchen is eternal. It is all about contrast – stark juxtapositions that create the tension between contemporary and country. Warm hardwoods contrast nicely with modern equipment and finishes.

Go Bold

Bold colors are not the only way to create some buzz – go big with the light fixtures, too. If your kitchen is on the smaller size, oversized lamps are a great way to go. They add drama without being overbearing.

Contrast Light and Shadow

Mixed-up mosaics are in, and they are expected to be all the rage for kitchen renovations in 2017. Keeping the cabinets dark works as long as the countertops and backsplashes are kept light or white to balance light and dark in the space.

Maximize Kitchen Storage

Getting enough storage can be tricky, especially for apartment dwellers or any homeowner whose kitchen is short on space. Custom cabinet designers are doubling up storage with useful multi-tiered drawers.

Automate your Kitchen

Our future kitchens may be a lot more independent than those of today. From sensor-activated lights that illuminate your kitchen only when it’s in use to meat thermometers that alert your smartphone when dinner is done, kitchen technology has your convenience in mind. Appliances such as the hands-free faucet from Moen is perfect for homes with small children who cannot reach the handle or any kitchen where cooks have sticky fingers.

Go Commercial-Grade

Want professionalism, a sense of more space, or just maximize prep space for cooking? Go for big spaces with a big island and backdrops in white or neutral. Include a pop of color like bright orange light fixtures to add personality.

Reinvent Quartz

Quartz countertops continue to be hot for 2017. Caesarstone recently introduced a line of six neutral colors for its durable quartz countertops. Shown is the grayish-beige “Linen,” whose subtle color gradation lends itself to sleek contemporary designs. Nonporous and are resistant to heat, quartz countertops are also resistant to spills and scratches, making them a smart choice for families or busy cooks.

Mix Countertop Materials

Nothing says contemporary then by mixing your countertop materials: granite, quartz and laminate are no longer your only choices. Wood countertops are very fashion-forward, too. Try selecting an earthy wood grain, and contrasting it with some Calcutta marble for the best of both worlds.