Skip to content

Kitchen Trends for 2022

The core elements of a classic style kitchen are timeless, however, each year subtleties in designs change, with different colours, textures, and materials proving more or less popular. With 2021 coming to a close, it’s time to look forward to 2022 and the key kitchen trends we expect to shine through. 

As was the case with our 2021 kitchen trends predictions, it’s hard not to mention the impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on how we use our homes. While 2020 and early 2021 saw the nation spending more time at home, the back end of the year has been a time for recovery. It’s true to say that whilst some elements of our home, work and social lives have returned to pre-pandemic patterns, we’re also embracing new ways of doing things and both this ‘new’ and ‘old’ are influencing our homes and living spaces.

We spoke to our expert design team to get their predictions about the top kitchen design trends that we are seeing right now, and the ones that look set to continue into 2022.

1. Opening shelving

Although it may not appeal to minimalists, open shelving is becoming a more popular addition to kitchen design. The addition of open shelving is particularly apt for industrial style kitchens as well as french country and shaker style kitchens where the furniture will often include open elements. 

With kitchens often part of larger, open-plan rooms, open shelves are a neat way to inject personality into the space, to make it feel more inviting and homely. Not only can open shelves be used decoratively to add a unique style, but they are also a handy storage solution allowing most-used utensils, ingredients or cookery books to be kept within arm’s reach. 

2. Decorative glass

Decorative glass has always been a popular choice in kitchen design, however, its use has evolved over time. Previously it was only seen on the inside of kitchen cabinets, but more recently decorative glass is being used for splashbacks, and as a backdrop for open shelving.

There are a huge choice of finishes available but the antique and smoked styles are the most in-demand at present. They add to the ambience of larger kitchens by reflecting the natural daylight into the room throughout the day, and the mood lighting in the evening. Unlike clear glass or mirrors, the homeowner does not need to be concerned with the upkeep and regular cleaning as decorative glass has a faux patina providing a great camouflage for unsightly smudges and finger marks.  

3. Home bars

A trend that we started to see at the end of 2020 and into early 2021 is the addition of home bars in kitchen designs. With the pandemic forcing people to spend more time at home, many adapted their homes to meet their new requirements. This trend picked up pace throughout the year and is one that we expect to see continue.

Our homes have not only been our sanctuary, but also our main entertaining hub and as social events at home have become more of a regular thing, there has been more demand for kitchen designs that include a home bar, drinks cabinet or drinks area.

4. Neutral walls and statement islands

While last year green was the popular choice for hand painted kitchens, this year we have seen a return to the more neutral colours surroundings. Bolder kitchen colours are still popular, however, are more reserved as an accent colour often incorporated into the island unit. 

Lighter coloured cabinetry is more forgiving which makes it well suited to family kitchens. It is also timeless, which is something to consider if homeowners are planning a larger kitchen or with a view to selling the property at a later date. It can be tempting to get caught up in of-the-moment design trends, but with a large investment such as a bespoke kitchen, it’s important to make sure it lasts the test of time. 

5. Metallic accents

The trend for gold and bronze tone accessories really came in to its own this year however we are now seeing homeowners become braver and bolder in its use. Where previously it was typically smaller accents of these tones that were dotted throughout the design in terms of handles or taps, more recently we have started to see it appear in the form of under mounted sinks and even entire island worksurfaces. Silver and chrome had been the go-to colour for kitchen accessories but we’ve seen many manufacturers bring in a broader range of metallics recently. With us spending more time at home we’re perhaps adding a touch of hotel-decadence or luxury to our properties. 

It’s always worth consulting a kitchen designer before committing to an unusual product or finish as they can advise about the suitability of a material for the homeowner’s lifestyle. 

If a new kitchen is part of your 2022 dreams then be sure to get in touch with us today to organise a showroom visit for inspiration or book a design consultation with a member of our expert team. 

Alternatively, if you’re looking for more design inspiration then be sure to follow us on Instagram: @davonport_interiors or Facebook: @DavonportKitchens

Back To Top