The trends of kitchens in the present are composed as a result of, movements and moments from yesterday that never lost their direction. We remain inspired and influenced by the impact these legacies still have on design today, tomorrow, and…

That kitchen island: Consider. Conceive. Create. Celebrate.

One of the elements that are getting much-deserved attention and design reconsideration, is that oh so important kitchen island. When a kitchen has enough space and an island is beneficial to the function of the project. I would say absolutely go for it! The potential and possibilities to elevate this piece to new levels are not only numerous but very exciting!

Without a doubt, once a design is conceived, the final creation should remain cohesive to the personality of the project. The use of similarity is used to tie together elements that might not be right next to each other in the space. That island design can stand out “in the crowd.” It just doesn’t have to be the twin sister that sits in the middle of the kitchen anymore.

This is a blank canvas. Take another look at the scale, direction, materials, style, and function. Seek inspiration: perhaps from a favorite piece that already exists in your life. Explore images and look to the past for portions of the design that seem relevant and appropriate for the project. If some or all of these initial steps get overwhelming, then consider hiring a designer. They can offer up a second set of eyes and ears for you. Their strength and purpose are to develop a creative, yet consistent design, one that you may not know you even wanted. The end result is to be able to celebrate what was once only perceived and is now an actuality.

Form + Function: Countertops + Beyond

Natural stone + Engineered Stone

Experiencing the galaxy of industry options for potential countertop candidates is an incredibly visual, and informational journey. Listen, learn, and trust during this journey. The diversity and variations of each material possess distinct personality attributes. It possesses varying degrees of function, usefulness, and purpose. Get to know them well, the relevant and fitting selection will become obvious. Be insightful: their personalities and characteristics can be just like people. So choose wisely and eliminate those that seem inconsistent to project criteria for kitchens.

 

Backsplash areas: Open your mind + expand the view

In developing the design and cabinet layout, does it work to expand the countertop material up onto the wall’s backsplash area? Viewing the material in this position speaks to a graceful, visually smooth, and uninterrupted installation.

Waterfalling:

Considering the design and cabinet layout once again, imagine expanding the same countertop material by carrying it down onto the side of a base cabinet.

For even more visual dynamic impact, once again carry the same countertop material down the back of an entire bank of unfinished lower cabinets. This installation would be done on the back of an island or peninsula. As a result, it emits a powerful yet graceful harmony to space. There are actually a few unnamed individuals out there, who are known to have physically hugged a waterfall installation.

Those sexy edges:

An eased edge profile is a very popular edge and a good option for kitchens. If you want a thicker look, mitered edges can be created for this purpose. The presence of mitered edges has over the years, gained a lot of strength in industry exposure. Through forward-thinking creatives and innovative designers, the industry is now producing edges with unique design characteristics and purposes.

Not just another brick wall.

The vast variety of large format tiles available in today’s market just gives me goosies. These far-out and amazing products, are seen and applicable in a ton of materials, sizes, shapes, and dimensions. What once was considered large, like the 12 x 24-inch tile, now seems industry standard. The popularity of a more seamless and simpler presence is capturing more and more attention.

A favorite method of operation (obsession) for me is to expand the expected and usual boundaries for any given tile installation. When it comes to kitchens and when it comes to large format tiles, there is no exception to this rule.

“The space that is the kitchen requires unity!”

The appeal of installing products in multiples and on a large scale is ultimately one of the more impactful details that should be considered. Above all, kitchens require unity. I cannot say that loud enough! There are so many visual breaks with all of the elements, materials, surfaces, structures, and objects in this room. This can create a visual challenge for continuity. 

All of these things are such a small slice of what can be seen, heard, touched, and discussed. The takeaway here is that we are being offered ever-expanding options, materials, and products. They are inspirational, they are innovative and they are meant to be a temptation of our sense of creativity and imagination. They are meant to be the seed that we can plant to be the next trend…

Appreciations, curtsies, and cheers to RocktopsKC.

Written By: Ann Arkebauer

Click here to view more of Ann’s amazing work

 

Ann Arkebauer is a Kansas City-area interior designer and artist. For more than 30 years, Ann has worked with families, individuals, and businesses to elevate their spaces and take a little risk along the way. Whether you are into modern edginess, classic timelessness, or a personal style not formally identified, Ann can help you get the look you want – or maybe the look you didn’t even know you wanted!

Are you ready to rock your home? For more information on granite and quartz countertops in Kansas City check out our website at RocktopsKC.com, or better yet, visit our showroom and get inspired. Rocktops creates beautiful kitchen and bathrooms throughout Johnson County and the Kansas City metropolitan area. We are your premier Kansas City resource for granite, quartz, quartzite, marble, and more! Contact us at 913-782-0802 or email at

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