European Kitchen Design Trends

Eurocucina, the huge biennial trade show held this year in Milan, showcased the latest trends in contemporary kitchen design.

The trend continues for the increased integration of the kitchen with the living room to promote family togetherness and to function as an open, multiple-use space.

A major theme of exhibitors was the use of natural woods for kitchen cabinetry.  Oak was especially dominant in dark and natural finishes with sharp, crisp edges.  The look is very natural with the wood treated as simply as possible.  Integrated handles were used extensively for cabinetry rather than traditional applied handles.  Open wall shelving was also seen as a dominant trend with most exhibitors.

Another big trend noted was the return of white and black for appliances.  After years of the dominance of stainless steel, white and black are now seen as more sophisticated.  If stainless steel is used, it is in a matte finish or one that is treated to resist fingerprints.

In countertops, quartz, glass and wood are favored materials. Textured and matte finishes emphasize a natural look to go with the natural cabinetry.  Thicknesses were explored as well with both extra-thick and extra-thin materials used.  Also waterfall countertops were used for a more contemporary look with the countertop material extending to the floor as a leg.

A fun trend is the integration of indoor gardens into countertops.  With proper lighting, one could grow herbs and snip them when preparing a recipe.  What could be fresher?

Miele's RemoteVision

Miele is on the cutting edge of appliance technology. They have introduced RemoteVision, a wireless appliance support system that monitors your refrigerator, freezer, wine storage unit, some dishwashers and laundry units to warn you if there is a problem. We all spend a lot of money on food these days. Wouldn't you like to be informed if a door was left ajar so it could be closed before food began to spoil? And for wine connoisseurs who have a lot invested in valuable vintages, being alerted to a problem could save them hundreds of dollars. If a problem occurs, you will receive notification via e-mail and a service appointment can be scheduled. When you are purchasing the ultimate in appliances, protect your investment by including the ultimate in service as well.