Winter 2020

Out&About lifestyle

Two-tone kitchens with contrasting colours will be on trend in 2021; compact kitchens are no barrier to islands or breakfast bars; smart storage is key to any kitchen design

Making the most of a compact kitchen Where space is at a premium go for minimal clutter and maximum efficiency with a compact kitchen. Floor to ceiling cupboards work for narrow, galley style kitchens, giving it the appearance of extra width. Compact kitchens do not mean you cannot include an island or breakfast bar but make sure the size is in proportion to the room. An open island gives the impression of space and also provides a storage area. Hot water on demand Hot water taps are gaining in popularity and it seems they will be the ‘thing’ for kitchen design in 2021. With more people working from home – wanting hot water on demand for making tea and coffee in between online meetings – hot water taps will be a hot item. Two-tone kitchens and darker surfaces The trend for next year is to combine two colours in a kitchen rather than stick with

all wood, all white etc. The two-tone approach means lighter furniture and bursts of colour blend well with dark worktops, adding depth and character to the kitchen. Textures will also be mixed with wood combined with laminates or matt finishes, a combination that works in any sized room. Smart storage The kitchen larder is a much sought after feature. Optimum cupboard space and deep drawers continue to be a prime requirement in

any kitchen design. Hidden appliances

With so many gadgets and appliances in the kitchen, discreet storage is

increasingly popular. Larger items such as

dishwashers and washing machines are often already concealed behind matching carpentry, but users will also be looking to keep everyday smaller items such as the kettle or toaster from cluttering up the worktop. A dedicated area for those small, but necessary items could be the answer.

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O&A WINTER 2020