New year, new you—new kitchen? While kitchens serve a practical function, they are becoming more and more of a centerpiece in the home. It is no longer just a space to cook and wash dishes; it is also a room to gather, to relax, and to entertain. The latest trends in kitchen design reflect its evolving role, prioritizing elegant countertops, bold design, and multipurpose convenience.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz is not new to the party, but in 2021 it is the top trending material for countertops. One of the biggest advantages of using this nonporous manufactured stone is that it requires zero maintenance. On top of this convenience, it is stain, heat, and scratch-resistant, making it a win-win-win for homeowners in search of something durable. Because quartz is cut to size from large standard slabs, it is easy to install into custom spaces. No matter how you want to shake things up in your kitchen redesign, quartz can meet you there. While quartz comes in all colors, current kitchen trends favor lighter shades of gray and white.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a timeless natural stone for kitchen countertops, but it is trending for use in high-end kitchen design. Intricately veined marble countertops are always a statement piece, elevating the space with a luxury finish. Marble is certainly a higher-maintenance countertop material than something like quartz, but it is unmatched for its elegance and opulence.

Bold Color Contrasts

Let’s talk color. One of the latest trends in kitchen design is a two-toned color palate with bold contrasts. The good news is, there are countless ways to interpret this trend and make it your own. Dark colors are in, but your accent could be black cabinets contrasted with stunning white marble countertops or light-colored walls with dark gray granite surfaces. Another popular choice is to paint walls or cabinets a bold accent color like blue, green, yellow, or burnt orange. Don’t forget about how floors and furniture can come into play as well!

Solid Slab Backsplashes

Kitchen backsplashes have long been a way to make a statement. Lately, though, interior designers have been shifting away from small, intricately patterned tiles toward solid stone slabs. Create a bold, elegant look in your kitchen with marble countertops that connect seamlessly to a matching marble backsplash. This kitchen trend uses a timeless material to bring a touch of drama to a functional, yet stylish space.

Large, Multifunctional Kitchen Islands

Modern kitchens are embracing the kitchen island as a focal piece, rather than an extra prep surface. These large, multifunctional units now integrate appliances, sinks, and storage. Many of them are designed to fit four or more stools, making them not just a place to prepare meals, but also to serve them. With large kitchen islands trending, the countertop material becomes an even more integral part of the room’s design.

Phoenix Stone and Laminate

Do you have a vision for how you want to transform your kitchen into a modern gathering place? Phoenix Stone and Laminate can help you translate it into a reality. Countertops are key in all five of these latest trends in kitchen design, so choosing a material, a color, and a unique look are some of the biggest decisions you will make in a kitchen renovation. Contact Phoenix Stone & Laminate today to learn more about our materials and receive a free estimate!