Kitchen cabinets can make or break the kitchen. They are the first thing the eye sees when entering the kitchen and they bring the room into a full decorative circle. The cabinets serve both utility and decorative purposes, so they will need to fit the kitchen perfectly. The end of 2013 closes out with some useful, yet beautiful, trends in kitchen cabinets.

1. White Oak

White oak has increased in popularity as homeowners realize the utilitarian uses of oak. The boards from the oak provide stability and a particular resistance to shrinking or warping. It is also quite pleasing aesthetically. The grain is quite distinctive and holds lighter or neutral stains with style. The cabinetry from this wood is efficient, durable and clean-lined with an organic quality.

A wire-brushed cabinet with a two-textured finish is highly requested in oak cabinets. This style is rustic and understated. “Understated” is a popular key word in today’s kitchen styles; it is not the minimalist look which was popular before – it is lighter and simpler.

2. Uncluttered Kitchens

The trend is also steering toward light, uncluttered kitchens. The “lighter and simpler” term also refers to the color of the cabinetry: blondes and whites are in. Recessed-panel doors pull the cabinets into the kitchen, further promoting a non-cluttered appearance.

Kitchens are trending toward an understated, simpler appearance which can be witnessed in even the most embellished cabinets. Add-ons such as crown moldings, carved feet or raised panels are still popular but are far more constrained than before. Over-the-top detailing will be phasing out in the coming cabinetry fashion. Lines are easier and carving is downplayed.

3. Furniture Cabinets

The American kitchen is becoming a central part of the home more than ever before with the use of fine furniture cabinetry. Styles stretch from islands that look like tables to freestanding pieces to cabinets which emulate furniture. A piece leaving the bedroom and entering the kitchen is the armoire, which holds storage drawers as well as an upper piece for various kitchen appliances. Many homes are adding a flat screen television to this piece to complete the community feel of the kitchen. Many of these pieces are created with painted maple, providing an easy going vibe in the kitchen. Black walnut or stained cherry are popular choices for these pieces, which make a terrific family-heirloom look.

Bulky islands are being transformed into airy pieces by replacing closed bottoms with turned legs to the base. Finally, drawer pulls are being exchanged for furniture-style pieces on the base and wall cabinets to finish the central feel of the kitchen.

If you have any other questions on creating a kitchen that feels more like home, contact us today!