2021 Kitchen Trends

Last year turned our daily rhythms upside down. Home took on a whole new meaning as people brought family-life, work, exercise, and cooking all under the same roof. Guest rooms became offices, living rooms transformed into makeshift gyms, and kitchens became, well... everything.

Whether cooking a large meal or homeschooling kids at the table, kitchens are central settings for our lives. As 2021 begins, we expect the construction industry to implement designs that consider our unique context and make people’s lives a little bit more relaxing. Here are a few kitchen trends we believe you’ll see more of this year.

#1 Organic Style

The organic kitchen is on the rise in 2021. This style implements the same straight lines popular in contemporary designs, yet balances the look by introducing warm colors and natural materials. Architectural Digest claims that the dominating aesthetic for homes in 2021 can be described in one word: soothing. To evoke a sense of ease, construction companies will include wood finishes and soft natural palettes in designs throughout the year.

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We had the privilege of implementing this organic style into a kitchen for our client and fellow contractor, Peter Kornbluth. Kornbluth came to our shop with an olive log that he harvested from his 110-year-old orchard of 64 trees that was destroyed, along with his home, in the Jesusita Fire.

He had the vision of using this wood for his home rebuild, so the logs were milled, dried, and built into all of the new house's cabinets. The final result was breathtaking. The warm tones of the olive wood paired beautifully with the sleek lines of the cabinets and countertops. After so much loss, we were honored to create a peaceful kitchen environment for the Kornbluth family.

#2 Large Islands

With an increase in the number of people working remotely and kids learning from home, a large island is a staple in 2021 kitchen designs. While creating extra cooking and storage space, islands have developed to accommodate work and studies by incorporating numerous outlets. With people doing multiple tasks in the kitchen, many families are choosing to increase seating options and use their islands as a second dining room table. 

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While renovating a home in the Sea Meadow community of Montecito, we opted for a spacious kitchen design complete with custom cabinets and storage. In the center of the bright and airy space, we built a large island to make additional room for meal preparation, working, and family gatherings. We loved partnering alongside Ann James Interiors to design a kitchen that is both beautiful and practical.

#3 Increased Storage

With more time at home last year, many of us found ourselves experimenting with new recipes - making everything from sourdough bread to whipped coffee. Some experiments required purchasing new kitchen supplies, and storage is beginning to feel the strain. With more people opting to dine in, pantries and increased storage will be vital in 2021 kitchens.

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Our team would be honored to help you transform your kitchen into a calm and relaxing environment. Contact us today, and let’s discuss your needs!

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Change and Resilience

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Plaza Pacifica: A Home That Persevered