Include: An Oversized Island…or Two

Here in Southwest Florida, especially, we see our fair share of visitors, and if you’re entertaining in your home, chances are your guests will be congregating in the kitchen. Oversized islands provide you with the space you need to prepare food, as well as entertain guests without the kitchen feeling like it’s overcrowded. Add one or even two of these to increase the functionality of the space.

Exclude: Space-Saver Microwaves

Building the microwave into the kitchen range has been something that we’ve been seeing for years, but its time in the spotlight has finally run out. Unfortunately, this type of set-up leads to inadequate venting from the kitchen range. This is why builders and designers are leaving these space-savers out of the equation, opting instead for proper ventilating hoods.

Include: Walk-In Pantry

Being organized in the kitchen is crucial, and the area that tends to become the most cluttered is the pantry. Building in a dedicated pantry, a walk-in variety if you have the space, is recommended. Not only do you have enough space for all of your food items, it’s easier to stay organized.

Exclude: Tuscan Design

The Tuscan kitchen has had its time to shine; however, for years now, this trend has been slowly leaving centerstage. This is where many builders see the most requests for remodeling, getting rid of the Tuscan design, in favor of a clean, crisp, modern appeal.

Include: Energy-Saving Appliances

Not only do we want to do our part to help save the environment, we also want to reduce operating costs in our homes. Replacing appliances, like your refrigerator, oven, microwave and dishwasher will allow you to save money on your energy bills, while also increasing the value of your home.

Exclude: Overstated Backsplashes

Big geometric patterns and bright colors don’t quite mesh with the contemporary color palettes we see in today’s homes. Busy backsplashes tend to get dated rather quickly, which is why we recommend sticking to simplistic neutral tones to better work with the modern feel that many homeowners are seeking.

Designing Your New Kitchen

When it comes to creating the kitchen space that you really want, keeping some of these ideas in mind will make a big difference. A few other items you’ll want to consider for your kitchen space include:

• Butler’s pantry
• Wine cooler
• Concealed appliances
• Natural elements

In keeping with a more timeless appeal in this space, you’ll be able to enjoy your kitchen for the long-term, without the need to revamp it every other year. Sticking to modern neutrals with pops of color throughout livens up this area of the home, while adding in functional elements, like a dedicated pantry and oversized island will allow your kitchen to work at its best for you and your guests, providing the best of both worlds.

Gulfstream Homes is ready to help you build your new home! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Your New Kitchen: 3 Things to Include & 3 Things to Exclude first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.

Open Air

We’ve been adding elements of nature into our modern homes for a while now by way of plant life, greenery and more, but this trend just took it one step further. Instead of a traditional tile backsplash, many home builders and designers are choosing to add windows to this space, so that home owners can open them up and let the light shine in while they’re cooking, entertaining or just hanging out. By allowing the elements of the outdoors to flow effortlessly into this space, you not only get a light and bright ambiance, but a feeling of a much larger room as well. If you’re ready to take your kitchen to new levels, this open air feel will get you there.

Go Metallic

Another trend that has been making its way into more homes in recent years are mixed metallic accents, and the backslash is no exception. Adding in a metal backsplash gives the space a more modern, industrial feel that can go along with other elements of the home, such as exposed plumbing in the bathroom and metal fixtures throughout. With metallic backsplashes, you’re able to keep the rest of the kitchen simple, so that your backsplash remains the focal point of the room.

Geometric Shapes

Tile has been a longtime pick for many builders and designers for kitchen backsplashes, mainly because it’s durable, versatile and full of character. Mosaic tile remains a top choice for this area of the home and designers are reinventing the way this trend is evolving by using bright, vibrant colors to make the backsplash the accent piece of the kitchen. Gone are the days of boring white or gray square tile. Say hello to funky geometric shapes all shades of the rainbow to really make an impact on this space.

Other Backsplash Trends

From an industrial feel to a more natural look, there’s a backsplash solution out there for any kitchen. Other popular trends that you can expect to see more of in 2021 include:

• Natural wood

• Stone and marble

• Sheet glass

• Slate chalk walls

• Mirror walls

• Brick

When you’re looking to design a new home or renovate your existing kitchen, these backsplash trends will help you get a little more out of your kitchen space. After all, you do too much in this area of the home for it to be bland and boring. Revitalize your kitchen and start by making your backsplash the center of attention…next to your delicious food, of course!

The Gulfstream Homes team is ready to help you build or renovate in Southwest Florida! Call (239) 254-1664 or visit www.gulfstreamhomes.com to get started.

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The post Our Favorite Kitchen Backsplash Trends first appeared on Gulfstream Homes.