How to future proof your kitchen renovation
With kitchen trends ever-changing and potential buyers increasingly design savvy, we have compiled a list of our top tips for creating a timeless kitchen that will provide decades of use without looking dated.
Neutral Colour Palette │ By keeping colours neutral you will help future-proof your kitchen, providing a blank canvas for day to day life. Whites, woods and light coloured tones keep the kitchen looking fresh and bright. Shades like white, beige, grey, and soft taupe create a serene backdrop that can adapt to changing trends. Bring colour in with artwork, small appliances and kitchen accessories.
Quality Fixtures & Fittings │ High quality tap ware, sinks and fixtures will stand the test of time and will not chip, scratch or wear with age. Choosing a European brand ensures it is of the highest quality which is backed by an extended warranty. Opt for classic stainless steel or brushed nickel instead of trendy colours such as black, copper and brass. Spending more on fixtures may be costly up-front but over time you will be rewarded with a quality product that has longevity.
Durable Surfaces │ Silica-free engineered stone & granite bench tops are the most durable surfaces to stand the test of time in the kitchen. Marble (although beautiful & timeless) is a natural product which is not as resistant to staining. Marble and Corian can be re-sanded and sealed if you are wanting to invest in a benchtop which can be re-vamped every few years. Avoid laminate, concrete and wood as a bench top surface as these are more likely to date.
Open Plan Configuration │As our home lives evolve, so does the kitchen & living area. Where possible, keep the kitchen open plan. Being able to converse with guests whilst entertaining and also being able to monitor the kids whilst cooking makes for a more functional space. An open plan kitchen, dining & alfresco is also more attractive to potential buyers in the future.
Streamlined Cabinetry │Invest in good quality handleless cabinetry with flat doors and groove openings. Kitchen cabinetry with handles can look chunky and old-fashioned. Door finishes in durable materials such as laminate will wear better than timber veneer or painted finishes. Opt for high-quality cabinet hinges, drawer runners and groove finishes to ensure longevity and smooth operation.
Timeless Flooring │ Classic floors in hardwood timber, engineered wood or large format tiles are timeless and will endure plenty of traffic as the years go by. Ensure your flooring choice coordinates with your cabinetry and worktops in a quality finish.
Stylish Splashback │ Choose your splash back wisely as it is one of the first features to draw your attention in the kitchen. It is best to avoid a ‘feature’ tile and opt for modern finishes such as sheets of porcelain or better still, continue the same stone from the bench top up the wall. Tiles can be classic however care must be taken to protect the grout lines as they can get dirty over time and age the kitchen.
Integrated Appliances │ If possible, go for integrated appliances that are hidden seamlessly in to the cabinetry. Invest in high quality ‘smart’ appliances that have extended warranties, and can be controlled remotely.
Smart Lighting │Lighting is a powerful tool to create ambience. Hidden strip lighting, recessed cabinet lighting, task lighting, internal lighting & mood lighting. There are a variety of options for clever lighting within the kitchen that will keep it looking and feeling modern. Incorporating lighting which can be controlled via smartphone allows for extra flexibility for home owners.
Personalise With Accessories │ By creating a kitchen that is a blank canvas, you can personalise the space with accessories. Indoor plants, vases, chopping boards, glassware and artwork can inject personality into the kitchen. Accessories are easily interchangeable when you want a different look.
Designing a kitchen that stands the test of time involves blending classic design elements with practical considerations. By focusing on quality materials, versatile designs, and functional layouts, you can create a space that remains stylish and efficient for years to come.
