kitchen trends

Technology & Gadgets - This is a fast growing area and in early 2010 we have seen a number of key developments. These include specialist mood lighting and the opening of kitchen fascias electronically. We are also seeing a rise in built in kitchen appliances and gadgets.

Lighting - There is likely to be shift towards more eco friendly lighting in 2010. Mood lighting is also set to feature heavily.

Eco Friendly - Kitchens are likely to become much more efficient and provide more eco friendly properties.

Textured Finishes - These have been popular in Europe for quite a while and are expected to hit the UK in a big way this year. We expect to see textured work surfaces and cabinets.

Shiny Handles - Handles took off in a big way last year and in 2010 we expect to see more and more consumers going for shiny handles.

Patterns - Patterns are set to feature heavily this year in kitchen design. This builds upon the growing popularity for textured finishes. Stripes have already started to become popular as home owners are looking to create the wow factor in their homes.

Grey and Earthy Colours - These types of colours are set to grow in popularity after the popularity of them during this seasons catwalk. These colours are already popular in America.

Intelligent Kitchens - These are kitchens that are personalized to the consumer's need and works in just the way they need. It's a trend that has been around for a couple of years now.

source: Magnet Kitchens, the fitted kitchens specialist

Granite - Naturally beautiful and extremely pleasing on the eye. Granite surfaces have become very popular in the last few years and this is reflected in its price. Granite is a bold a powerful stone which means its often the focal point of a kitchen.

Timber - Solid timber work tops create a warm and inviting kitchen. Timber worktops go well with traditional and contemporary style kitchens. The right choice of wood can also make your kitchen look extremely expensive.

Laminates - These are always popular as they are often the most affordable. Advances in technology means that these look more and more like the real things (stone).

Quartz - Even tougher than granite and is extremely durable. This means they are long lasting and are growing in popularity. Can be expensive.

Corian - A man made material, which is extremely durable. Can usually be acquired reasonably cheaply and can provide a nice finish.