5 kitchen design trends for a sustainable, efficient and modern lifestyle

According to the 2023 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study with more than 3,600 respondents, sustainability is key to kitchen renovations in 2023. Most homeowners (92%) seek sustainable features for their new kitchens, including LED bulbs (65%), energy-efficient appliances (61%), water-efficient fixtures (34%) and energy-efficient windows (27%). Making eco-friendly choices is important for 54% of homeowners. 

Kitchens have become the ‘heart and soul' of the home, places to gather and connect or even work, which is evidenced by 47% of the respondents prioritising a timeless design that represents their lifestyles. 

So it comes as no surprise that there’s a trend towards more colour, mixed materials and playfulness in 2023 in one of the most essential spaces in our homes. 

For those looking for a one-stop shop for kitchen renovations, Nover is worth exploring. Spanning a history of 69 years, the Sydney-based company specialises in the wholesale distribution of quality products for kitchen renovations, offering joinery and decorative panel products, bins, storage solutions, hinges, sliding and folding systems, drawer systems, runners, handles, sinks, taps, basins, appliances, hardware and fittings, adhesives, doors, benchtops and lighting solutions.

Here are five kitchen trends to consider when renovating or building:

1. Sustainability

Environmental consciousness is becoming more prevalent in all areas of our lives including in kitchen design. Consumers are increasingly aware of how the built environment contributes to not only their health and wellbeing but also to their environmental footprint. Sustainable materials, such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and eco-friendly benchtop options are on the rise. Additionally, energy-efficient appliances and lighting solutions as well as water-saving fixtures have become popular choices. 

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2. Smart technology

According to Statista, over 335 million homes will have at least one smart speaker within the next five years. In addition, global spending on Internet of Things products is forecast to reach $1.1 trillion in 2023. 

No wonder this trend has entered the hub of the home. Refrigerators with built-in touchscreens or voice assistants, induction cooktops, intelligent ovens with remote control features, and automated taps, can enhance convenience and efficiency in the kitchen.

Additionally, automation is conquering our kitchens. With smart devices, we can control lights, temperature, and other functions with the sound of our voice or by using a smartphone. 

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3. Mixed materials and moody colours

According to leading interior design magazines, all-white kitchens are a thing of the past. Homeowners want the hub of the home to reflect their personalities and lifestyles. Colour is taking over, ranging from natural hues to brighter, bolder tones. In particular, warm and earthy hues are emerging to create welcoming spaces in line with the colours of nature. Another trend is mixing materials to create visual interest. Darker joinery combined with a lighter benchtop and textured feature doors for overhead cupboards, for example, create contrast and are pleasing to the eye. 

For those who want a bold design and the latest technology in materials, Fenix, a versatile and innovative Nano Tech material designed by Arpa Industriale, is anti-fingerprint, hygienic, durable and waterproof. Available in 22 colours to reflect Australian interior design styles, Fenix is suited for a range of horizontal and vertical interior applications.

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4. Clever storage 

Less clutter equals less stress – physically and mentally. Therefore, it is never a bad idea to invest in clever storage solutions.

The key to an uncluttered kitchen is concealed storage options and integrated appliances. Nover offers several space-saving storage solutions specifically designed for keeping the kitchen organised. Peka storage solutions, made in Switzerland, maximises every inch of space and includes smart kitchen and furniture fittings that bring order to kitchen units and storage cabinets. From spacious larder units, a type of pull-out pantry, and innovative corner units to handy pull-out systems, Peka's interior fittings unlock the full potential of kitchen storage.

5. Lighting 

Whether for task lighting or indirect atmospheric illumination, Nover’s own Krome range enhances the look and functionality of any kitchen. While general lighting illuminates the entire space, task lighting mounted under cabinets shines shadow-free light directly at the work surface. Strip lighting mounted under cabinets or kickboards adds that final touch of style. Different control options are available including infrared sensors and wireless remotes.

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