Cool and contemporary has proven to be
a popular choice in kitchen design over
recent years and with stylish new materials
and funky features this trend is set to
continue. Vale Life talks to Mike McNabb,
owner of Room For Living in Cowbridge,
who tells us about what's in store for 2011.
TREND SETTING
What are the current trends in kitchen design?
Kitchens are once again becoming the heart of the home. Open plan is definitely the order of the day, with living areas adjoining cooking and eating. Designs are definitely reflecting this trend and it is a challenge for the designer to make one space work for all of these different activities. This trend can influence the designer down a difficult path as they attempt to turn a room into a 'Swiss Army Knife'.
It is easy to lose sight of the fact that a room must combine functionality with beauty. Technology will play an increasing part in people's desires, with intelligent fridges and networked appliances but there is no point loading gadgets, televisions and quirky appliances into a kitchen whose fridge is in the wrong place or whose cabinet hinges crumble after twelve months. I have definitely seen a shift towards a more contemporary look. High gloss and bright colours are definitely more popular than at any time in the last 20 years. However, there is still a strong market in the traditional looking cabinets with turned columns and raised and fielded panel doors. Whatever the design a person should go for, I would stress that the most important factor is quality and functionality at a price that is affordable to their budget.
Describe a typical customer at Room for Living
Every customer is an individual and this means that each person's requirements can vary from one extreme to the next. It is possible to group people to some extent, however, the beauty of my job is that you never know what to expect when a potential client first walks through the showroom door. The one thing that doesn't vary is the requirement of the designer to match the design to the desires, and needs of the client. Young professional couples, the elderly, families, the single person, and the disabled person can all come in looking for a new kitchen on any given day. I relish the opportunity to help them create the kitchen of their dreams. It never ceases to amaze me how people shatter any first impressions when they begin to chose their new kitchen. And there is no better feeling than seeing that kitchen, modern or traditional, installed successfully and making a real difference to the life of my client.
What's new for 2011 Mike?
I've just returned from a visit to Germany to look at the latest trends and what's coming through for 2011is a more generic, contemporary look, with handle-less, finger print friendly doors in modern laminate and surfaces in both chunky laminate and non scratch glass. For the more traditional look, the trend seems to lean towards two tone painted wooden doors.
What about colours?
We're seeing more subtle colours coming through such as champagne and truffle.
Will we be seeing this in Room for Living then?
Oh yes, we're always keen to be at the forefront with new trends and will definitely be bringing these to the showroom in 2011. In fact, there are many plans afoot for the new year so watch this space.
