6 Kitchen Details You Should Update First

by Jan Kennemer 11/06/2022

No trend can remain popular forever. Regarding interior design, this is especially true in kitchens. If you've designed your kitchen based on popular trends—or are looking for inspiration for fresh changes—here are some trends gradually going out of style:

Tile Countertops

Tile countertops have been a popular trend for a long time. However, one major disadvantage is they require constant maintenance because of grout stains and chip damage. If you have tile countertops, consider replacing them with a more updated and easy-to-maintain material such as concrete or butcher block.

Shiny Brass

Metallic finishes are great in moderation. However, shiny brass accents can make a kitchen seem dated. Search for cabinet hardware like knobs, handles and drawer pulls. If you want to replace them while still keeping a metallic finish, go for brushed nickel or stainless steel.

Over-Range Microwaves

A common way to save space in smaller kitchens is to install a microwave directly over the range. While convenient, this can come with some disadvantages, including dating the whole aesthetic of your kitchen. Instead, place your microwave in a custom-build alcove over the counter.

Speckled Granite

Speckled granite countertops have been a mainstay of kitchen design for decades. Granite is still a great choice for countertop materials as it's strong and easy to maintain. But speckled, high-contrast varieties in particular are losing their trend appeal. Try swapping them for a more subtle granite color or for something new like quartz, concrete or butcher block.

Hanging Pot Racks

Another space-saving trend on its way out is the hanging pot rack. With so many new and innovative storage options, you can forego the hanging rack approach and tuck away your pots and pans. Cabinet rollouts or Lazy Susans are perfect for maximizing cabinet space and work especially well for storing your cookware.

Kitchen Desks

Even if you are working from home more these days, it might be best to get rid of your kitchen desk. Kitchen desks and miniature workspaces are falling out of style in favor of more efficient use of space like pantries or dedicated food prep counters.

If you need ideas for ways to update your kitchen and give it a long-lasting style, these are great places to focus on. With the right balance of trendy and timeless, you can keep your kitchen stylish for decades.

About the Author
Author

Jan Kennemer

Jan will show you how you can live close to Washington, DC – by public transit and/or highway – and still enjoy all the many amenities and friendliness of a quiet community. Jan is a life-long resident of Arlington, Va. So, she is very familiar with northern Virginia …Arlington, Falls Church, Alexandria and close-in Fairfax. She knows where to find those little out-of the-way places where you will still get excellent value and a home that meets your needs. As a Realtor® for over 20 years, Jan has developed a customized system for marketing and selling properties which includes the latest technologies combined with tried and true practices. She has received special training in working with first time buyers, repeat buyers and seniors. She is a certified VHDA trainer and is certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES©). Jan is also a certified e-Pro. She gets results you want – the best price in the shortest time. Jan is dedicated to helping clients satisfy their needs and wants while providing them with a strong investment for the future. She is readily available to provide explanations and information. She won’t push you into making an uncomfortable choice. Jan helps you to fully understand the transaction, so that you can always make an informed decision based on facts and figures.