As 2018 starts to draw to a close, it’s time to turn our attention to what lies ahead in the world of kitchens. With this in mind Adrian Stoneham, managing director of Stoneham Kitchens, predicts what he sees as being big news in kitchens for 2019 (www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk)

STAND-OUT SINKS

If you’re searching for a statement piece to excite your kitchen space, look no further – knockout, extraordinary sinks are one of 2019’s hottest trends and could be the missing piece in your kitchen design. A resurgence in apron sinks is set to dominate the market, made commonly from white porcelain or fireclay but seen more and more in eye-catching copper. Apron sinks are a great combination of form and function with a hefty, durable interior, lots of washing-up space and often stunning, decorative fronts that lend plenty of beauty and style. Gold sinks are also growing in popularity as are earthy materials such as marble and cement, which look especially dazzling mixed with warm timbers and cabinets painted in moody hues. For a real talking point, consider coloured ceramic sinks, which come in all shapes, sizes and shades, and might just be exactly the pop of colour needed to reinvigorate your room.

SMOOTH CONCRETE

For many, concrete might seem like an unusual choice for a kitchen but given the right setting, its rustic, textured look can set just the right tone, particularly for those looking to create an industrial design. In its exposed, uncovered state, concrete has a bold, hard-hitting quality. Incredibly versatile, it can be cast into shapes and slabs or poured, smoothed and polished, making it suitable for floors, worktops and even kitchen cabinetry. In addition, concrete is a resilient and durable surface too, and has longevity similar to natural stone or wood. As the trend for industrial design continues to dominate the market long into next year, why not consider concrete for your room to create a bold, striking look.

BLACK IS BACK

Demand is increasing for kitchen furniture painted in black and is set to overtake grey in the new year. Climbing its way back from its heyday in the eighties, black offers a sharp contrast to kitchens devoid of colour and also adds elegance to a space that no other shade can. Combined with the warmth of walnut, tones of oak and gold or bronze finishes, black might just be the melodramatic trend of 2019 you need to uniquely update the hub of your home.

METAL SHELVING

Open, exposed shelving has been a growing trend for a few years now, with timber shelves leading the way. However for 2019 metal shelving is likely to surge ahead, with the trend promising to deliver attitude, style and flexibility to any contemporary kitchen. Perfect for organising your room and displaying your favourite culinary items. Metal shelving, with its reflective qualities, also helps to bounce light around the room to create a larger looking space.

COPPER REIGNS

Previously reserved for quirky accents in the kitchen such as taps and knobs, in 2019 copper will be found across the room’s largest appliances, from ovens to extractor hoods to fridge freezers. Boasting the title of ‘Metal of the Moment’ for some time now, it will continue well into 2019 to be used by homeowners to add warmth and interest to any style of kitchen, from modern to traditional and everything in between.

SNUG DINING

2019 is set to combat discreet kitchen diners with a flourishing trend for cosy banquet dining nooks and corners. This homely, delightful setup will skyrocket in popularity next year and it’s no surprise why. Not only do these dining spaces exude casual, contemporary charm, they’re also a brilliant use of the kitchen area, allowing for flexible seating and extra breathing space in your room’s layout. After all, a kitchen should be as much about eating and socialising as it is about cooking.

TERRIFIC TECH

Next year, prepare to witness a new wave of innovation in kitchen technology. Quickly becoming common place in the home, 2019 will welcome modern, luxurious must-haves such as all-in-one gas and induction hobs as well as sleek, hidden extractor fans. Cooking will become even easier, with hob units available made from both gas burners and induction heat, creating the perfect balance of capabilities that are ideal for chefs with limited time. For built-in extractors, glass perimeters are set to take over in customer demand, creating a sleek, minimalist look that’s barely there and appearing camouflaged into the kitchen’s bulkhead. For added ease, these are illuminated by LED lighting, can be matt painted to the shade of any ceiling and are controlled remotely with an electronic device.