NARI offers design tips during May Home Improvement Month: Lighting, mixed use of cabinetry, wine storage top kitchen trends in 2014

Kitchens remain a top remodeling project in 2014, according to the Member Profile Study done by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), in time for National Home Improvement Month this May.  Eighty-two percent of NARI members identify kitchens as their primary service offering.

This year, the association’s 2014 CotY (Contractor of the Year) Awards program, which recognizes top projects in 25 categories, totaled nearly $73 million worth of remodeling projects and identified national trends, especially in the areas of kitchen updates.

“Consumers want practical, comfortable kitchens that are efficient to use and easy to live in,” says Kevin Anundson, MCR, CKBR, NARI National President and vice president of Renovations Group Inc. in Elm Grove, Wis. “Bigger isn’t better, but homeowners still want a feeling of space, and open concept with islands are still a significant part of kitchen trends in 2014.”

Improving the overall look and feel of the kitchen was most often cited in the CotY entries as the main motivating factor by homeowners for remodeling, followed by improving function.

Lighting

The continuing trend of fewer upper cabinets in the kitchen creates more space for decorative task lighting, often on adjustable arms that gives the option to have the light directed where it is needed most. Decorative fixtures in black, iron and aged brass finishes make a bold statement. Other trends:

·         Pendant lights over kitchen islands continue to be a great opportunity to bring style into the mix.

·         Chandeliers in kitchens add an unexpected sparkle and can soften up the hard lines and smooth surfaces of appliances and countertops below.

·         An oversized light fixture becomes a focal point in an otherwise plain room.

·         Under-cabinet lights, controlled by a dimmer, provide ambiance.

Built-in cabinetry that looks like furniture

Mixing and layering finishes and woods to create a custom look is another emerging trend, along with built-in accent cabinets that act as a framework for the rest of the cabinetry.  These cabinets, often designed tall and narrow with glass fronts, provide the look of a built-in china cabinet to showcase collectables. In general, upper cabinets are less popular in areas that obstruct lines of sight, especially to outdoor interests or to an adjacent family room. 

• Appliances are subtly hidden behind the cabinetry for a clean, streamlined appearance.
• Colorful kitchen cabinetry has made a big comeback. Palettes using and mixing blues, orange, browns or greens countering neutral white, wood or dark finishes are providing kitchen flair.

·         Dramatic contrasts of light cabinets and dark countertops provide visual impact.

Wine storage

With the explosion in the wine market over the past few decades, wine is becoming more of a lifestyle choice and factoring into kitchen designs.

·         Dedicated “butler” areas for entertaining, sampling and sharing wine with guests are very popular, allowing the cook the opportunity to socialize during food preparation.

·         Integrated wine coolers, an answer to tight kitchen spaces, are nestled into cabinetry along with wine racks to showcase a homeowners’ collection.

If you're planning a home renovation project this year, consider incorporating some of these trends to update your kitchen. Before construction gets underway, consult with a professional remodeler about the renovation projects you have planned.

NARI is the source for homeowners seeking to hire a professional remodeling contractor because members are full-time, dedicated remodelers who follow a strict code of ethics, observing high standards of honesty, integrity and responsibility.

Consumers may visit www.NARI.org to find a qualified professional who is a member of NARI or call NARI National at (847) 298-9200 and request a free copy of NARI’s brochure, “How to Select a Remodeling Professional.”