What’s at the forefront of kitchen design? One designer shares her insights

Caren Rideau of Kitchen Design Group knows kitchens, having done more than 500 of them over her more-than-30-year career. The Pacific Palisades-based designer feels three trends in particular will be at the forefront of kitchen design this year.

Unimposing Hoods

“I like to integrate unimposing hoods into my work, especially if the kitchen is in an open space. For example, if it is open to a dining room or space or family room, I like the hood to feel unassuming and be a backdrop to everything else around it.”

Appliance Stations

“If the space allows, I love to integrate appliance centers. It is an easy answer to store the messy functions of everyday living. For example, coffee stations, toaster ovens, and toasters are the biggest requests I get from my clients. They can be open for most of the time but closed when you want to close it off from pop-in guests.”

Functional Pantries

“Functional pantries are one of my favorite spaces. A functional pantry is where the magic happens, and it is separate from your kitchen. It is a place to store trays and large serving pieces, and I especially love to integrate countertops for the counter appliances: toasters, slow cookers, and air fryers. You can stage your dinner parties, bring a piece of cheese to room temperature, or use counter appliances without  having them over the main counters of your kitchen.”

See also:

Caren Rideau | Profiles in design