A kitchen remodel is the perfect opportunity to turn your space into a dream kitchen. When we renovated ours, it was most fun to focus on design features. Pinterest boards. I studied what I liked and what I didn't, and from there made an absolutely thorough wishlist for the designer. Whether you're prioritizing a double island or opting for custom cabinetry, the right choices can elevate your home and match your design aesthetic. Features like enhanced counter space and adequate storage space make daily food preparation more efficient, while thoughtful design elements like natural materials and modern hardware are features that people remember. What are homeowners prioritizing these days during their kitchen renovation?
To get insight into trends and popular features that homeowners pursue during home renovations, we tapped Jorge and Debbie Goncalves Owners of Kitchen Solvers of Orlando. The duo describes themselves as a one-stop shop, meaning that Kitchen Solvers can manage a variety of subcontractors and provide a hand-in-hand process.
Leading Trends
Over the past year, several kitchen design trends have gained popularity, blending style with functionality. "Brushed gold hardware has emerged as a favorite," notes Debbie. "I think it adds a touch of elegance to modern kitchens." Larger kitchen islands with cabinets in contrasting color schemes bring individuality and charm. Colorful kitchens including blue, green, and light wood-stained cabinet colors have become on-trend. "Beverage and dry bar stations are increasingly sought after for their practicality and added home value," notes Jorge, and that tracks — most homeowners already have a coffee area, so why not integrate a coffee bar. "Storage solutions, such as floating shelves and open storage, also offer convenience and visual appeal, making kitchen essentials easily accessible." When it comes to lighting, homeowners are embracing LEDs and smart light systems. LED under-cabinet lighting creates soft, ambient illumination, complementing the workspace without the harshness of overhead fixtures. Additionally, the team noted that quartz and leather-finished quartz kitchen countertops are gaining traction for their durability and sophisticated aesthetic in a kitchen makeover.
Popular Kitchen Features
- Soft-close cabinet doors and drawers
- Solid wood dovetail construction drawers
- Walk-in pantries. "Clients are increasingly realizing that pantries are often overlooked, but are a large part of the kitchen, so making sure the kitchen pantry is functional has been a trending focus," observes Debbie.
- Kitchen cabinetry inserts for additional storage
- Double sinks. "Double the kitchen sinks, double the space to wash dishes, dry plates, or wash produce," highlights Jorge.
- High-end kitchen appliances, including wine refrigerators
Features That Focus on Livability
- The overall kitchen layout. "An open concept (encompassing the kitchen space into a living space) allows for the home to have a better flow, more prep space, and makes the kitchen the heart of the home," emphasizes Jorge. A functional kitchen is everything, and if you get it right, your daily routine will thank you.
- "Smart features in the kitchen, such as smart appliances and accent LED lighting, including under and above cabinet lighting, allow the client to have remote access, save energy, and be safer," shares Debbie.
- "Deep drawer cabinets allow for more use of the kitchen and more functional storage solutions," notes Jorge.
