Kitchens Accommodate TVs, Charging Stations

The third of three stories on this week’s topic: Kitchen Design

When interior designer Barbi Krass of in Birmingham was recently working with clients in Franklin, she was challenged with building into the busy family’s kitchen design a big television.

“It’s a large, pull-out flat-screen that can swivel to the island (with counter seating) or the kitchen table area,” said Krass, a resident of West Bloomfield.

The interior designer joins many others in this area who are addressing a host of unique needs that weren’t part of the design scenario a decade ago.

Ann Arbor-based Masco Cabinetry’s 2001 GenShift 2011 study revealed that today’s homeowners put computer and television needs close to the top of their kitchen-extras list, especially Generation Y (20somethings) consumers.  

On a typical weekday, Gen Y spends more time entertaining and watching TV/using a computer in the kitchen than Baby Boomers or Gen X, revealed the report.

The kitchen is more than a room to prepare food – it’s essential for everyday functionality, efficiency, and time management.

This generation in particular might appreciate a computer station near the kitchen (either desktop or laptop), which allows them to cook dinner, answer homework questions, read the latest Facebook updates, and check their bank account balance. An additional consideration could be a charging station for tech devices.

For homeowners without children, the functionality of the space changes slightly. This group is more focused on friends, cooking and wine clubs, intimate dinners for two and baking. An entertainment space adjacent to the kitchen might be an important addition, the report suggested.

Other trends (cabinetry) in kitchen design from Masco Cabinetry (which features KraftMaid, Merillat and Quality Cabinets) include customization and anything but bland, said Sarah Reep, director of designer relations and education for KraftMaid Cabinetry.

“From finishes to layouts, more and more homeowners are experimenting with cabinetry design,” said Reep. 

Top trends in cabinetry include:

From Light to Dark: Dark, rich cabinetry finishes have been increasing in popularity over the years. “This trend will continue into 2012 as homeowners choose darker, warmer colors over the traditional natural mid-tone finishes,” said Reep.  

Pops of Color: Consider a brightly painted island or cabinetry built from different wood types. “Homeowners can give their kitchen its own unique personality by mixing and matching a variety of colors, finishes and wood types,” said Reep.

Fine Furniture: The right china hutch or buffet can transform a kitchen. Just ask interior designer Rick Carmody of  in Ferndale. One of his kitchen designs features  the homeowners' prized antique hutch right alongside staineless steel appliances. Reep said homeowners can also order cabinetry with styles that echo furniture looks. “Often, homeowners want their kitchen cabinetry to complement pieces in their living room,” she said.  

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