But we think you may find some of the latest trends inspiring, so let’s talk about some things that are happening now.
1. Black and white kitchens
Contrast is back in style – and what greater contrast is there than black and white? But if you find the contrast too stark, you can always soften it with natural materials such as timber floors.
2. A splash of colour
Vivid colour is cool as long as it’s not too overwhelming, but in a black and white kitchen, all you need is a splash of colour to create a jaw-dropping effect.
3. The industrial modern effect
Picture:Boffi Studio Elemento
Here’s another example of using a little colour to create a big effect. What’s black and white and red all over? Or: What do you get when you cross a fire hose tap and a bit of bent pipe? In this case, industrial-style kitchen or bathroom tapware from Boffi Studio Elemento, a long-established Italian family firm with a showroom in Auckland.
4. Stunning under-lighting
Picture: Boffi Studio Elemento
Black and white is all the rage for bathrooms as well as kitchens – and in this case the contrast between the two has been reinforced by strong under-lighting to create a shadowy 3D effect.
5. The timber grain look
If black and white and loads of contrast aren’t your thing, the subtler natural look of timber may be more to your taste. The use of tough veneers can keep costs down while keeping aesthetics up.
6. Rustic kitchens and bathrooms
It took 400 years but the rustic look is back. You may not be keen on having goats or geese (see headline pic) wandering through your kitchen, but the look of rough-sawn timber and roughcast plaster walls is undeniably cool.
7. Outdoor rooms
Outdoor rooms are perfect for the New Zealand climate – even more so than decks – because they provide shelter from the rain and, if properly screened, wind. The best outdoor rooms are versatile – they have louvred or folding roofs which can be opened to the sun, a heat source for chilly nights – we recommend a gas fireplace – and durable but comfortable outdoor furniture.
8. Conversational kitchens
The kitchen is the heart of your home, and modern kitchens, no matter what style they are, tend to also be the hub of the home, making sure everyone has easy access and the cook isn’t left stranded away from the action.
9. Disappearing kitchens and 10. serious mood lighting
The photos above show how a hideaway kitchen and clever lighting can completely transform a room to exactly suit the mood of the occasion.
Inspired? If you’ve seen something that grabs you – or you have your own ideas – come and talk with us about transforming your kitchen, bathroom or outdoor area. We’ll make the whole process uniquely simple and stress-free with our design service, fixed price, skilled project management and, of course, the protection of your local Pzazz Building owner’s 10-point Peace of Mind Guarantee.
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