It can seem like the obvious choice to introduce designs that prove popular, but there are some kitchen features interior designers are sick of seeing. To put it simply, they’ve become overdone and could be making your design look boring.
We get it – there’s a lot to consider when you’re deciding on kitchen ideas, and if you see certain features used a lot, it seems like a safe bet to include them. But this approach isn’t always the best. In fact, it’s the reason you’re scheme lacks unique style.
If you’re designing a kitchen or simply want to switch a few things up, these are the kitchen features interior designers are sick of seeing, and what you should be introducing instead.
8 kitchen features interior designers are tired of seeing
It’s out with the old and in with the new and unexpected. This year’s kitchen trends are all about creating unique designs and personalized decor, so ditch these overused features for a successful scheme.
1. Farmhouse sinks
(Image credit: Seasons 4 Design/Amanda Archibald Photography)
When you think of a large, statement kitchen sink, there’s one particular style that likely comes to mind. The farmhouse sink has become a must-have feature for so many homeowners over the last few years – but interior designers have seen it far too often.
‘A kitchen feature that I’m tired of seeing is the farmhouse sink. It has been overdone and no longer has that special, unique quality. There are so many other interesting and elegant sink options out there,’ says Lauren Carranza, of Seasons 4 Design.
‘One that I love is an integrated stone sink basin with an apron front. It is seamless and cohesive, and the stone apron front provides the visual interest of a farmhouse sink with its front elevation, but in a new and fresh way.’
2. White kitchen tiles
(Image credit: Janis Nicolay / Knight Varga Interiors)
Kitchen trends have been shifting away from stark white schemes in favor of more personality-filled spaces. Whether you add colors, texture, or interesting patterns, it seems white tiles are one kitchen feature interior designers are sick of seeing.
‘I’m ready to move on from white tiles in the kitchen. We can do better! If you want to keep things neutral, consider zellige tiles in off-white or cream,’ says Thea Bloch-Neal, of Curated by Thea.
However, if you are keen to introduce subtle colors into your kitchen, Look to a pale hues. ‘Try a light blue or pale green tile – colors that are soothing and family-friendly,’ Thea suggests.
3. Stainless steel range hoods
(Image credit: Renovation Sells / Fio Creative)
The kitchen has to be functional first, so making practical features aesthetic is an effective way to add style to your space. And this year, designers are recommending you steer clear of utilitarian-looking extractor hood ideas.
‘Another feature that I wish people would shift away from is stainless steel range hoods. They can come across as too cold and industrial,’ says Lauren. The hood is a great place to add a decorative element, drawing the eye up and hiding a less attractive element of the kitchen.
‘When designing a smaller kitchen, consider using your cabinetry to create a custom hood facade with matching cabinet fronts. This keeps the eye moving throughout the space, makes the area feel larger, and allows other kitchen elements, like your range or sink, to shine instead of the stainless steel hood vent.’
4. Microwaves above stoves
(Image credit: Urbanology Designs / Photography Matti Gresham)
Layout and placement are often just as important as the decorative elements of your kitchen design. And while the arrangement of your scheme will depend entirely on the room you’re working with, there are some kitchen layouts to avoid.
‘I’m so bored of seeing microwaves over stoves. Microwaves are generally not visually appealing, and the space above your stove is a major focal point of the kitchen,’ says Janelle B. Photopoulos, of Blakely Interior Design.
Instead, consider placing your microwave somewhere that is still practical, but a less visible spot. ‘We always opt for a statement hood instead and design the microwave into the base cabinetry,’ she adds.
5. Open shelving
(Image credit: deVOL)
If there’s one kitchen feature that divides opinions, it’s open shelving. Though it’s proved popular in recent trends, designers say it’s time to ditch them for something more practical.
‘Open shelving is an often overused kitchen element that can become a deeply impractical feature for homeowners. Open shelves demand expert styling to become the beautiful display areas they were intended to be, however, most homeowners find it challenging to maintain the styling of these shelves and these spaces quickly become dusty and cluttered,’ says Julia Rose Schweyer, of Julia Rose Interiors.
And, she’s not the only one sick of seeing open shelving in kitchen schemes. ‘While it might look great in photos, living with it in a kitchen can be a hassle. Instead, opt for cabinets with fluted glass. This gives you the open shelving look while still providing space to tuck things away quickly when needed,’ adds Thea.
6. Kitchens lacking personality
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
Sometimes, it’s not one particular feature that interior designers get bored of – rather an approach to kitchen design, or even an aesthetic. There may be some kitchen styles that begin to dominate because they are beautifully timeless, but seeing the same color and material combinations can get tiresome.
‘The current kitchen du jour features light putty colored cabinets, white walls, and a marble counter that extends onto the backsplash. While it’s undeniably beautiful and tasteful, as someone who consumes a lot of interior design content, I no longer find this combination particularly interesting or inspiring,’ says interior designer Emily Vaughan.
‘I’m more drawn to kitchens that express a distinct point of view and showcase their homeowners’ tastes. I would experiment with color, pattern, and textures to create a distinctive palette. Many people hesitate to make bold choices in a permanent space like a kitchen, [but] I believe that people are more likely to become bored with safe, conventional choices than with something they truly love and choose with passion.’
Peabody Cotton Tea Towel (Set of 2)
Kitchen linens are a great way to introduce softness, texture, and pattern into your kitchen. This set of two comes in a warm neutral that brings in a classic pattern.
Hyacinth Printed Café Curtains, Set of 2
Cafe curtains are becoming one of the most popular window treatments for kitchens – and hey off a great way to bring in color and pattern without having to make major changes.
Still Life with Apples and a Pot of Primroses Print
If you don’t want to make too many changes to your kitchen, focus on introducing colorful, textural, and interesting decor, like this still life art print from Lulu and Georgia.
7. Kitchen pendant lights
(Image credit: Morrison Interiors /Shade Degges)
Kitchen pendant lights are often the favored style, but designers are getting bored of boring designs. ‘I’m so tired of seeing undersized, basic pendants over an island. There’s no visual weight so they tend to get lost in such an open space,’ says Thea.
Instead, opting for something more striking – or even sculptural – has a much greater impact. ‘We recommend a larger scale statement fixture or multiple large lanterns or pendants that are scaled appropriately for the size of the island.’
However, for some designers, it’s time to ditch the pendant lights altogether to create a more unique, unexpected feature. ‘While hanging pendants are a kitchen staple, they might not be the right choice for every space,’ says Emily.
‘Kitchens with low ceilings or those lacking symmetry might be better served by a collection of thoughtfully placed flush mount lighting. I find this approach refreshingly unexpected, and with the wide array of stunning fixtures available today, you can still use lighting as the jewelry of your kitchen without relying on hanging fixtures,’ she explains.
8. Basic upper cabinets
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens with tiles by Bert & May)
Storage is a premium in kitchens – especially in a smaller space – but why not create a more visually interesting feature with them? ‘When I see a kitchen with a continuous run of upper cabinets extending to the ceiling, it often feels visually flat. This design misses the opportunity to creatively use the vertical space,’ says Emily.
Rather than introducing cabinets in every open space, try to take a more considered approach. ‘Combining countertop resting cabinets with open shelving can introduce visual interest and movement, all while maintaining ample storage space. You can also leave some open space, especially around a range hood, to let it stand out as a focal point,’ Emily suggests.
‘Additionally, incorporating a pantry cabinet that doesn’t reach the ceiling can evoke a more furniture-like appearance, adding character beyond the standard built-in look.’
Now you know these kitchen features interior designers are sick of seeing – and what they want to see more of instead – how will you approach your design? Whether you add color and texture or take an unexpected approach to your upper cabinets, there’s plenty of inspiration here.
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