A Guide for Your Journey Home

Kitchen Design Trends to Help You Create a More Functional Home

Kitchen designs will build on the momentum created by last year’s trends, including an emphasis on storage, nature-inspired accents and upgraded technology in lighting, appliances and fixtures. This year’s designs complement the simple luxury of organic style, while increased functionality becomes the main goal of updates and upgrades. These six trends are all about helping your kitchen work your way, adding substance and style that’s sure to last for years. 1. Flexible lighting As the kitchen continues to transform into a multifunctional space, lighting will play a key role. “Lighting controls, and the ability to adjust your light to the task at hand, is an important trend,” says Greg Martin, creative director of design at Kichler Lighting. “This could be as simple as the ability to dim light levels or as complex as app-controlled color temperature and light intensity.” According to the 2022 Design Trends Report by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, app- and voice-controlled lighting will be as popular as traditional dimmers and motion-sensing lighting in the coming year. Multiple sources of light are another significant feature for a space used for varied tasks, and Martin says adjustable sconces are especially hot for kitchens. Hardwired or plugged in, these fixtures can be installed how and where they’re needed, adding both illumination and style. For all fixtures, he continues to see strong trends toward black and gold finishes and notes that white light fixtures are beginning to gain popularity. 2. Walk-in pantries Last year, kitchens burst with new cookbooks, small appliances and cans of food following changes in cooking and shopping habits caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In its 2021 “What Home Buyers Really Want” report, the National Association of Homebuilders found walk-in pantries tied with double-basin sinks as the most desirable feature homebuyers look for in a kitchen. Not content with simply finding a place for everything, homeowners look to add functionality to kitchen storage, too. “Working pantries,” which include areas like coffee centers or a place to store and use small appliances, come in at No. 5 on the NKBA trend list. 3. Sink workstations Sinks will see major upgrades, and there are two styles vying for your attention. “The past has proven that spaces in our home must serve multiple functions, and your kitchen sink is no different,” says Caroline Danielson, director of showrooms at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery. The NAHB report identifies side-by-side double sinks as the most-wanted kitchen feature. According to Danielson, these sinks are popular because they allow for simultaneous tasks, like food prep and washing dishes. They also offer a variety of configurations, allowing the homeowner to select from various basin sizes and depths, as well as faucet location and mounting style. “Instead of your average stainless under-mount sink, we are encouraging clients to choose workstation sinks,” says Ebony Stephenson, owner of Designs by Ebony. Workstation sinks feature a built-in ledge for accessories like colanders, dish racks, cutting boards and ice holders; and often multiple faucets for added productivity. Stephenson expects to see galley-style sinks (wider than a standard 36-inch sink base cabinet), which could be especially popular in larger renovations and new construction where countertops and cabinets are specified. 4. Rounded accents Organic style quickly became a top decor style in 2021 and continues to influence kitchen design. Now, rounded accents are showing up as a complement to this nature-inspired aesthetic. “We expect that curves and organic shapes will be integrated more into kitchen spaces, promoting comfort, whimsy and natural elements,” says Katherine Cohen, manager of visual merchandising and photography at FLOR. For a grand approach, Cohen suggests arched windows, doorways and ceiling treatments that structurally integrate swells and curves. On a smaller scale, look for accents like circular trays, scalloped backsplashes, seating with curved backs, and soft furnishings with rounded geometric and abstract patterns. Cohen also notes a trend toward pairing curved and wavy decor elements with each other, such as round tables with circular rugs or round cutting boards with curved earthenware serving pieces. 5. Modern wood finishes Greens and blues will continue to dominate home design, and the kitchen is no exception. But according to the NKBA, white and wood tones will also be popular. Together, these hues are the foundation for today’s popular organic style. While the NKBA reports painted wood is still the most-popular cabinet choice, designers agree that wood grain, especially in light and medium tones, is gaining ground in the kitchen. “I’m seeing a renewed love for wood kitchens. Not the country oak from the 1980s, but gorgeous, grained walnut or white oak,” says Kelly Finley, founder and principal designer at Joy Street Design. Finley says these warm woods balance the coldness often found in tile and stone countertops. And it’s not just wood tones; prominent wood grains and textures are finding a place in kitchen design as well. 6. Smart appliances Tech-savvy appliances are moving into more and more kitchens for multiple reasons. First, many companies are simply updating and adding new features to their line of appliances to better align with today’s connected homes. Additionally, homeowners are willing to splurge, even if appliances are more expensive right now. “Given the delays in receiving appliances, homeowners are opting to wait to get everything they want in the ‘perfect” appliance,” says Finley. Saving time by preheating before getting home, being alerted when timers are done no matter where you are, and the possibility of having appliances serviced without a technician are all reasons homeowners are getting excited about adding more tech functionality to their kitchens, says Finley. © Meredith Operations Corporation. All rights reserved. Used with permission. The post Kitchen Design Trends to Help You Create a More Functional Home appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.

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Luxurious Living in Mystic Creek: A Stunning Walkout Ranch Home in Sioux Falls

Welcome to the epitome of luxury living in Sioux Falls! Today, we are thrilled to showcase a truly exceptional property that is part of our exclusive Distinctive Collection. Nestled in the prestigious Mystic Creek neighborhood, this stunning walkout ranch home at 7509 E Donnelly Dr is a true masterpiece that exudes elegance and sophistication. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the open floor plan and impeccable attention to detail. The kitchen boasts beautiful birch cabinets, a walk-in pantry, and a granite island and countertops that are as functional as they are stylish. The rich wood floors flow seamlessly throughout the kitchen, dining area, and living room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Natural light floods the open living room and entryway, thanks to the large windows that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Cozy up by the stone fireplace on chilly evenings, or enjoy the company of guests in the spacious main floor living area. With three bedrooms on the main level, including a luxurious main bedroom with a walk-in closet, double vanities, a tub, and a tiled shower, this home offers the perfect balance of comfort and privacy. Convenience is key in this home, as evidenced by the expansive main floor laundry room with ample storage, located adjacent to the locker mudroom. Step outside onto the two covered decks, one of which is screened in for year-round enjoyment, while the other is perfect for grilling and entertaining guests. The lower level of this magnificent home is an entertainer’s dream. A large gathering space with another stone fireplace provides the ideal space for movie nights, gaming sessions, and gatherings. The lower level also features newer LVP flooring, two additional bedrooms, and a bath, ensuring that everyone has their own space to relax and unwind. The wet bar, located just off the 38×13 walkout patio, adds a touch of luxury and convenience to your entertaining endeavors. One of the many highlights of living in Mystic Creek is the proximity to a variety of activities, all while being part of a close-knit community. Beautiful streams and ponds are within walking distance, offering a serene and picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. If you’re ready to experience the pinnacle of luxury living in Sioux Falls, don’t miss out on this extraordinary home in Mystic Creek. Click here to explore the listing and immerse yourself in the beauty and elegance of 7509 E Donnelly Dr. Your dream home awaits! — This blog post was co-authored with GPT-3.5, a natural language generation model by OpenAI. Learn more here: https://openai.com

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Discover the Perfect New Construction Villa in Sioux Falls!

Are you ready to find your dream home in Sioux Falls? Look no further than this stunning new construction villa located at 4509 W 34th St N. With its modern design and convenient location on the Northwest side of town, this property is sure to capture your heart. Listed for $318,900, this villa offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality. Boasting 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious 2-car garage, it’s the ideal space for those looking to downsize or start a new chapter in their lives. Step inside and be greeted by an open and inviting floor plan. The main floor features a spacious living room, dining area, and a well-appointed kitchen, perfect for entertaining or hosting gatherings. Additionally, there’s an extra living space that can be used as a den, providing you with the flexibility to create a home office, hobby room, or whatever suits your needs. The primary bedroom is a true retreat, complete with a walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom featuring double sinks. Imagine starting your day in this serene space, getting ready for the day ahead. The main floor also includes an additional bedroom and a full bathroom, ensuring guests have their own comfortable space. One of the highlights of this villa is the covered patio, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful Sioux Falls weather. Whether you want to sip your morning coffee or unwind after a long day, this outdoor space provides the perfect setting for relaxation and tranquility. And let’s not forget about the over-sized 2-stall garage, offering ample space for your vehicles and additional storage needs. No more worrying about parking or cluttered spaces – this garage has you covered. It’s important to note that the price does not include sod, sprinkler, and landscape, giving you the opportunity to personalize the outdoor space to your liking. Imagine creating a beautiful garden or a cozy outdoor oasis – the possibilities are endless. If you’re ready to embark on a new chapter in your life and make this new construction villa your own, don’t hesitate to click here to view the listing and learn more about this incredible property. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to call this place home. — This blog post was co-authored with GPT-3.5, a natural language generation model by OpenAI. Learn more here: https://openai.com

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