Max-Top predict worktop trends for the year ahead

As we settle in to 2017, Stephen Moss, managing director of Max-Top, discusses his predictions for emerging worktop trends in the year ahead. He looks at the importance of surface materials, how Scandinavian taste is influencing the UK, the role of space in the kitchen and the colour tones that are set to be popular throughout the year in the latest issue of ABC+D magazine.

Upgrading from laminate worktops to quartz

The number of people upgrading from laminate to quartz has risen steadily throughout 2016. This trend looks set to continue in the year ahead as the quality and value of materials become important considerations. Previously, quartz was seen as a luxury kitchen surface, perhaps out of the price range of the average household but the development of composite surfaces is opening the possibility of natural stone as an option for both kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

Upgrading from laminate to quartz is one area where people can indulge in excellent surfaces without breaking the bank. Furthermore, the aesthetics of natural stone greatly increase the grandeur of the room. Our findings align with 2016 AMA Research which reported that an emphasis on stylish designs, coupled with the demand for professional style kitchens and appliances, is leading to consumers trading up to higher value materials and products.

“Tastes are evolving and shifting in wonderful ways and it looks like the maxim of less is more is becoming increasingly relevant” Stephen Moss

Industrial Theme

Industrial design is a style that has grown in recent years, particularly in Scandinavia and the trend looks set to continue in 2017. It is particularly prominent in Copenhagen and is an aesthetic that is proving increasingly influential in the UK. Characterised by details such as exposed brick, exposed pipes, rustic metals and minimalist furniture, the trend is inspired by factory spaces. The style is particularly popular in restaurants and casual dining establishments and is also trickling in to the interiors of residential homes. Warm Grey finishes that match rustic themes are suitable for those seeking the stripped-back, industrial look in the kitchen or bathroom. It is a shade and finish that draws attention to other industrial features such as industrial-looking appliances and wall fittings.

Clutter-free worktops

Having clutter-free worktops is an emerging interior design trend. It can open up the space of a kitchen and allows the home cook to calmly prepare food at a clear surface. The options for cabinetry are developing to enable this layout, carrying various compartments and shelves for everything from seasoning and oils to paper towels and tea bags.

Clutter-free worktops are great for those looking for a minimalist look. The clean, minimal theme has grown in popularity following the success of books such as The life- changing magic of tidying-up by Marie Kondo who suggests the reduction of clutter can bring a sense of calm and clarity of thought. Clear worktops can also create the illusion of a larger kitchen space, so for consumers with a smaller kitchen environment it’s well worth considering having a tidy-up.

Monochrome Tones

This year we’re anticipating a rise in popularity of grey, black and white tones in the kitchen. These colours can work to varying degrees, whether it’s entire cabinets, worktops or appliances, or subtle hues coming through in various details and accents such as kitchen accessories. While black and white have always been popular finishes, last year saw the demand for grey products surge and we expect that demand for grey surfaces, of all shades, to be a key trend for 2017.

These tones can work in either a traditional or modern kitchen environment and provide a stylish, memorable environment throughout the year.

Moving Forward

Signs are promising for the kitchen and work surface sector in the year ahead. Tastes are evolving and shifting in wonderful ways and it looks like the maxim of less is more is becoming increasingly relevant. This combination of quality surfaces and monochrome tones is set to lead the way in 2017 to achieve the consumer goal of a tasteful and relaxing kitchen and bathroom space.