European Kitchen Design Influences US Trends
America has historically looked to Europe for kitchen design inspiration. At one time, this meant ornate carved wood looks, but now it means a more modern aesthetic. Today, we see the modern European kitchen design trends continuing to influence the American market, injecting sleek lines and glossy finishes into homes across the nation.
Many of the trends we see in modern European design were born from necessity. Because of the space constraints in Europe, there has often been a need to make space look larger by combining two rooms into one supporting multiple purposes. Because of this, modern European design is deeply rooted in clean lines and creative storage solutions to avoid visual clutter and carefully selected color schemes to add depth.
“While American kitchens were typically built as utility spaces, European kitchens were often an extension of the living room and added to the home’s gathering space,” says Maximilian Deitermann, an Atlanta-based real estate developer and interior designer.
We see much of this European kitchen design influence in American design today, including the use of flat panels as opposed ornately carved materials, the trend of hidden appliances, as well as the use of color and mix of materials to inspire depth and warmth.
Benefits of Panel Use
Mixing colors, textures and finishes in kitchen spaces is another way to create the illusion of depth that European designers so often seek.
One way to easily achieve this look is by using panels.
The design was scale-able and allowed for easy installation, leading to an open, sleek aesthetic. Designers can easily add on panels to create a new look without changing the functionality of cabinetry.
Panels are easily manipulated, designers can alter full panels as well as edge treatments, adding accents and incorporating a touch of color.
Panels are also able to be used creatively in applications beyond cabinetry: wall panels, barn doors, fireplace mantels, staircases and more. Because of their durability and innovative finishes, panels are resistant to staining and fading. Panels are also highly scratch resistant.
Source: KBB Online