Just like fashion, kitchen design tends to follow a similar seasonal trend pattern. While plenty of the styles we’ve loved so much in recent times are still going strong, in 2021, we’re seeing an influx of new design trends which are quickly gaining ground in the kitchen style stakes.

Every day we speak with different clients that want to know how to transform their kitchens into something which is not only functional, but also incorporates the latest features and trends to create something which is truly contemporary—and we want to share our expert insights with you too.

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation or simply want to stay abreast of what’s happening in the world of kitchen design and kitchen trends, here are our top 10 kitchen design trends for 2021.

Our top 10 kitchen design trends 2021

1. Integrated workspaces

In 2020, the global environment drove a major shift in the way we work, with countless businesses being forced to find new ways to continue to operate with employees working remotely from home.

Even though we’re now able to see the light at the end of the Covid-19 tunnel, for many businesses, it’s likely that our newfound WFH arrangements (or at least some of them) will stick around into the future—something which is likely to continue to drive an increased need for more permanent workspaces with the home.

While it would be ideal to be able to dedicate an entire room of the home to become a home office, that’s a luxury many peoples’ homes simply can’t accommodate. Instead, many are looking to create integrated workspaces within communal areas of the home—including the kitchen.

Whether it’s a study nook extending from the heart of the kitchen or a streamlined workspace that can be completely concealed behind cabinetry at the end of the working day, 2021 is sure to see us looking for new and innovative ways to transform the kitchen into a multipurpose workspace. Think kitchen islands that double as a home office.

2. Pantry organisation

In recent years, we saw the rise of the ‘Instagram kitchen’ with plenty of us sharing perfectly stylised pics of our immaculately presented kitchens—now in 2021, it’s the humble pantry that’s getting all the attention. That can be easily done with cabinets and upper cabinets.

Not only is a highly-organised pantry pleasing to look at, but in our increasingly busy lives, anything that provides efficiency and order is invaluable. Whether you opt for baskets, tubs, racks, lazy susans, storage jars or a combination of all the above to keep your pantry items organised and contained, it’s a trend that’s unlikely to go anywhere any time soon.

3. Cantilever countertops

While waterfall countertop island benches have been a dominant feature in the world of kitchen design for quite some time, cantilever countertops are something we’re likely to see more of in 2021.

Not only does a seemingly weightless countertop that projects from the grounding cabinetry below satisfy in terms of design, but it also offers practical benefits by allowing counter seating to be wrapped around the end of an island rather than exclusively along the front.

4. Metallics

Just like timber, metals are another natural feature that’s still going strong in 2021. Pairing perfectly with anything from laminate, stone and concrete to timber, glass and ceramic surfaces, metals are a great way to add contrast, strength and interest.

Regardless of whether you have a preference for chrome, gold, brass or copper, what’s more important than your choice of metal is how you incorporate it.

While traditionally metals were reserved exclusively for the likes of appliances, tapware and cabinet hardware, metals can now be incorporated in a number of different ways. From feature pendant lighting to metallic-look cabinetry or inlaid metallic detailing in cabinetry or benchtops, we’re sure to continue to see metallics used in plenty of new and inventive ways.

5. Floating shelves

While every well-designed kitchen should include plenty of concealed storage to hide away all the practical bits and pieces one needs in a functioning kitchen, most current kitchen designs also incorporate some form of open or floating shelves to display some of our more beautiful kitchen wares, or even some eclectic artistic pieces.

While hardwood timber and timber-look laminate tends to be the most popular option, alternative options like powder-coated steel are also gaining popularity.

6. Timber accents

Whether it’s our ever-increasing eco-consciousness or a rekindled love of the outdoors that’s driving this trend, we’re seeing a significant push toward using more natural materials in 2021 kitchen design with the use of timber possibly the most popular.

While there’s still a hesitation to adopt all-timber cabinetry, incorporating some timber accents is an excellent way to soften what might otherwise be a somewhat clinical aesthetic of classic white cabinets.

Whether you opt for ash, oak or walnut tones, what’s most important is that timber features somewhere within the space. From using a timber veneer to highlight feature cabinetry to incorporating a floating timber shelf, timber-lining below the countertops or other custom-made joinery, there are plenty of ways to incorporate timber into almost any kitchen design.

7. Elevated butler’s pantries

Kitchens are always in a continual flux of evolution—while a walk-in pantry was once the height of luxury kitchen design, today, nothing can compare to a well-equipped butler’s pantry.

Butlers pantries have always been a luxury addition that almost every kitchen-owner would love to have, but in 2021, the concept is being taken to the next level.

Beyond merely incorporating some open shelving, a sink and microwave, butler’s pantries now often also include all the trimmings to essentially create a fully-functioning mini kitchen. It’s not uncommon for them to include the same high-end appliances, countertops and cabinetry you would find in the main part of the kitchen.

While an elevated butler’s pantry may provide much more than most households require for the day-to-day, they show their true value when entertaining—whether you’re taking care of food prep yourself or you want a private space to offer to the caterers, a fully-equipped butler’s pantry is the ideal place to hide away the mess away from public view.

8. Concealed appliances

In 2021, there’s no place for clutter. Instead, we’re seeing our love affair with clean lines and streamlined design continue to grow. Even while we’re seeing appliance design becoming ever-more aesthetically attractive, it’s still a popular choice among many kitchen owners to hide appliances away completely.

From integrated dishwashers to fridges, microwaves, coffee machines and other small appliances, almost anything can be concealed seamlessly behind cabinetry doors to create a completely streamlined look, keeping the benchtops and islands clean and tidy.

9. Overhead skylights

After spending so much of the previous year at home, the desire for space has never been so strong.

While expansive areas of glazing are generally the best way to create a sense of spaciousness, it’s not always possible to install additional windows—however, skylights are an excellent alternative. Installing overhead skylights in kitchens adds volume to the space, while also creating a light, bright and airy atmosphere.

10. ‘Smart’ connectivity

In 2021, we’re also seeing a growing desire to integrate more smart technology into our modern kitchens.

From touch-to-open kitchen cabinetry to automated lighting, integrated sound systems, smart refrigerators and other technologies which can be managed centrally via voice-activated home automation systems, the desire for anything that simplifies our daily lives continues to be welcomed with open arms.

Sample the latest kitchen design trends at our Melbourne showrooms

At Mint Kitchens, we’re always at the forefront of the latest kitchens and their design trends which you can experience in person when you book a tour of one of our Melbourne kitchen showrooms located in Burnley, Burwood, Moonee Ponds and Richmond.

We’ll work closely with you to understand your vision for your kitchen renovation and show you through our complete range of stylish and innovative kitchen solutions to create a unique custom kitchen design that’s carefully tailored to your family, lifestyle and design preferences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional white kitchens, or after modern kitchen designs, we got you covered.

Find out more about our kitchen renovation service, take a look at some of our previous work by viewing our kitchen design gallery or contact us to arrange a tour of one of our kitchen showrooms or speak to one of our expert kitchen designers.