New years are always full of possibility – and while it’s hard to say exactly what the future of kitchen decor will look like, it’s always fun to review the previous year to try and predict what might lie ahead. Overall, 2021 kitchen trends took on an eclectic mix of the traditional and contemporary, reflected in aspects like Kitchen flooring trends ranging from classic chess-board tiling to geometric patterns. For the best in kitchen trends 2021 – here’s a look back at the past year – along with some style clues for 2022.

 

In The Zone

Already the most-used kitchen in the house, it was only a matter of time before designers welcomed the use of our kitchens as multifunctional spaces for cooking, study, entertaining and much more besides. Throughout 2020 and into 2021 this became even more prevalent (due in part to the increase in people working from home).

As the New Year approaches, so does the need to ensure everything is kept orderly and organised – which is why in 2022, we predict even more brilliant kitchen storage ideas in addition to “zoning”. One of the many kitchen flooring trends 2021 had to offer included the use of contrasting materials to help create structured areas while maintaining a sense of togetherness in “broken-plan” spaces.

 

Sitting Pretty

Multifunctional kitchens call for equally varied seating ideas upholstered in a range of comfortable fabrics -and from ergonomic work chairs to bar stools, in 2021 we saw a lot of variation in seating styles combined to create a look similar to the “layered lighting” trend we also saw this year.

Going into 2021, we predict a more cohesive approach to kitchen seating, creating a look that harmonises with the rest of the room. Velvety-soft upholstery looks gorgeous in richly-hued kitchens, adding a retro nineties feel – while textural elements like wool and linen fit perfectly in with more neutral styles.

 

Clean Living

In 2021, we saw another trend arising from the pandemic that was less of a style statement than a safety precaution – although the two were not always mutually exclusive: in addition to high-tech, hygiene-focussed innovations like anti-fingerprint technology, we also saw antibacterial worktops in a range of finishes alongside easy-to-clean materials to help minimise the transference of bacteria and viruses.

As health continues to be a priority going into 2022, we predict further developments in kitchen tech (both at home and in the catering industry) that will help create kitchens with the perfect balance of safety-consciousness and style.

 

Hidden Gems

For those who prefer a more streamlined look, clever storage continues to be a perennial favourite in kitchens past, present and very likely – the future. In another instance of the traditional versus contemporary, 2021 included a combination of elements like butler-style units crossed with canny modern storage solutions to stow away everything but the kitchen sink.

As perfect as they appear, streamlined kitchens aren’t entirely without their flaws (for one thing, hiding your appliances always seems to lead to some confusion over exactly where the fridge is). One thing we’re not confused about is the likelihood of this trend continuing into 2022 – and beyond.

 

Light Fantastic

This year, sculptural elements lent an artistic feel to lighting in spherical, coned and triangular shapes, While pendant lighting continued as a popular choice, there was also a shift towards chandelier designs, from luxe contemporary finishes to more vintage styles in keeping with the nostalgia trend.

Layering lights at various levels also created additional visual interest, whether clustered together or set apart in different areas of the room. This year, we anticipate a softer approach to kitchen lighting where – in keeping with the trend for muted colours, we’ll also be using low light in our kitchens to soothe our senses and – if we’re entertaining – set the mood.

 

Centre Stage

While it’s often said that the kitchen is the heart of every home – at the heart of every kitchen is (arguably) the kitchen island. Favoured by home decor lovers far and wide, they’re perfect for multipurpose spaces, acting as a workspace, counter and even an impromptu dinner table (when things are especially busy, sometimes all three).

This year, the kitchen island trend shows no sign of abating – and similar to design trends seen in seating and upholstery, expect the integration of surrounding design elements to have a big influence here as well.

 

Flying Colours

Although the Pantone colours for 2021 were duo of shades called “Ultimate Gray and Illuminating” (a soft, blue-grey paired with a vibrant yellow), the dominant colour for kitchens this year was most definitely green – and it’s easy to see why: from a colour psychology perspective, it’s one of the more peaceful colours, evoking thoughts of nature and tranquility.

In 2021 it appeared on both walls and furnishings in shades of soothing sage and forest green – creating the perfect environment in which to feel grounded, centred and calm. Looking forward to 2022, we predict a continuing trend for rich, dramatic hues in kitchens like aubergine and teal (offset by bright metallics), alongside a “two-tone” trend contrasting more muted colours.

 

Monochrome Magic

While white kitchens are generally considered a safe bet (especially if you’re considering selling your home) – in 2021 they showed that they were anything but boring, as layered shades of ecru, cream and ivory harmonised beautifully alongside various textural finishes to create a warm, inviting feel.

Similarly, black (typically more of an accent colour) created a surprisingly comforting feel in kitchens that was anything but gothic or severe – even when used on the walls. This year, white kitchens continue to trend – but as an alternative, using shades with a little more depth and drama can create an unexpectedly cosy feel in your kitchen.

 

From the Country…

Amongst the many kitchen trends 2021 had to offer was a continuation of the rustic trend. This emerged in 2020 out of a longing to escape from the city to infinitely greener and more peaceful pastures – but if you couldn’t quite escape urban life, you could at least create a rural sanctuary at home.

Throughout the past year, butler, and dual sinks in ceramics and composite materials added a homely, traditional feel to kitchens – while we even saw the unexpected revival of long-forgotten trends from decades ago, such as chintz, pantries – and even sink skirts.

 

… to The Coast

All that is set to change: while nautical elements are usually reserved for bathrooms, this year those seeking a sense of escapism can look forward to kitchen trends from even further afield as we leave 2021 kitchen trends like cottagecore behind to welcome in oceanic motifs like seashells and shades of serene blue so that – whatever happens with your holiday plans, you can still have your very own place in the sun.

 

Simply Marble-ous

Marble is another solid favourite in kitchens, adding a touch of class and sophistication to floors and countertops – and in 2021, we saw heavily-veined finishes creating a luxe feel in kitchens everywhere.

While it’s a beautiful look, it’s also a heavy investment – so if you are unable to spring for the real thing, there’s always alternative ways to recreate the look courtesy of imitation materials like vinyl. This year, we anticipate the introduction of softer colours and fabrics alongside curved countertops to help soften up the look as well as stronger monochromatic styles.

Staying in Neutral

Neutrals continued to be popular – particularly in kitchens favouring a “wabi-sabi” look integrating natural materials like marble, rattan, metal, wood and stone. This tactile trend is a progression from the hygge styles we’ve seen in recent years, reflecting a need for more tranquillity in our kitchens.

This year, the trend kept some of its previous elements including Japanese-inspired monochromatic hues. While the “greyscale” look of previous years now appears somewhat dated – in 2022 we can look forward to a further evolution of the “new neutrals” look, integrating muted colour along with earthy tones to help bring some added warmth to the look.

 

Greener Kitchens

No, not the colour: this time we’re talking about eco-conscious kitchens. In keeping with the trend for materials and colours evoking nature, 2021 saw an even greater focus on sustainability and quality, integrating environmentally-friendly elements into home decor in the form of recycled or even imitation-from-concept materials like laminate.

Looking towards the New Year, designers forecast even more ways to make your kitchen a planet-friendly place, from stylish recycling solutions to combination taps and energy saving induction hobs. In these kitchens the future isn’t just bright – it’s green.

 

Shelf Care

The “shelfie” trend that continued to trend throughout homes throughout 2021 shows no sign of stopping – including in kitchens where favourite knickknacks and ornaments took pride of place alongside pretty ceramics and glassware.

Despite appearances, there is an art to shelf styling: use items that fit with the rest of your decor, and choose a combination of objects in different shapes and sizes including things like bowls, framed pictures and kitchen-friendly houseplants. This year we’re scaling things down to a single shelf to avoid visual overload – a sure sign that 2022 is going to be all about focussing on the things that truly matter.

For more style inspiration, why not visit our kitchen showroom Manchester or kitchen design Preston showrooms, where you’ll find lots of ideas to help you give your kitchen a new look for the New Year.