Benchtops

• Extending your benchtop seamlessly up into the splashback gives an uncluttered look and an easy-to-clean surface.
• Manufactured kitchen surfaces, which copy the look of stone, are all the rage. The easy-clean composite surfaces hold their colour and grain consistency. Popular composite stone brands include Essa Stone, Corian, Stone Italiana, Quarella, CaesarStone and Trezzini.
• For a natural, clean look, neutral colours with a limestone or sand-pebble effect are popular.
• For a distinguished feel, try the new black Trezzini composite stone with white textured flecks.
• When it comes to laminate benchtops, don't be square. Curved edges and seamless lines are hot. New laminate colours on the market offer flexibility and individuality.

Design

• Kitchen design will be determined by its position in the open-plan living area. A popular design will be to open the back of the house with a flow through from the kitchen to the living area, opening onto an outdoor entertaining deck. The kitchen bench becomes the focal point as it differentiates between the functional kitchen area and the rest of the space. A galley or island kitchen is perfect for this design.
• Modular islands or preparation stations that can be moved around to suit individual requirements will feature prominently.
• Choose benchtops, sinks and fixtures with an ample thickness to give your kitchen a welcoming feel.

Colours

• Warm honey tones will be popular, with the natural hue of timber creating an instantly warm welcome.
• Prints and patterns are creeping into kitchen design.
• Kitchens are becoming more playful with the introduction of stripes and floral prints on splashbacks and benchtops.

Appliances and fixtures

• Kitchens are looking more streamlined as appliances are hidden in cabinets, deep drawers or entire walls of cupboards. Clever storage systems – such as benches with hidden shelving and cookers that drop down rather than opening in the conventional manner – are just two of the ideas on offer.
• Colourful, retro-styled appliances are always popular. Visualise cherry-red-coloured mixers and powder-pink kitchen scales.
• Cooktops on island benches, steam ovens and warmer drawers for plates are a dream come true for the serious cook.
• Our concern for the environment has been acknowledged, too – an eco drawer has been designed featuring compartments for paper, aluminium, glass and cardboard recycling.

Splashbacks

• Glass splashbacks will continue to appeal. They can be painted any colour to match the decor of your kitchen and create a bright focal point.
• Wooden splashbacks will make an appearance. As long as they are treated properly they will last as long as their glass and steel counterparts will.
• Steel splashbacks will prove popular. For easy cleaning, go for a matte finish rather than high shine.