A Place Called Home - Your Native Range — decor trends

At Native Range we're always thinking about home decor trends, and where things are haeaded. It helps us design and create innovative products that are in line with what the consumer wants. Of course, over the years kitchen decor has changed quite a bit. Kitchens 100 years ago were unrecognizable by today's standards. Purely functional spaces tucked away from the home's heart, they relied on basic appliances, furniture for storage, and limited counter space. Even running water wasn't a sure thing! These kitchens were all about practicality in a world with far fewer conveniences.

Since then our kitchens have become central gathering places in our homes, are filled with electronic conveniences, and are much more than just functional spaces. Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore the biggest kitchen decor trends for the past five decades, and look at the hottest trends of the 2020's. 

Like all home decor, changes in kitchen decor are driven by cultural and technological shifts. As women entered the workforce, kitchens became more efficient with open floor plans. Economic booms fueled trends like stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, while environmental concerns led to a focus on natural materials. New materials like Formica allowed for bolder design choices, and smart technology is now being integrated to create a more connected kitchen experience.

Perhaps you recall Rooster Figurines from your grandmas kitchen? These ceramic or porcelain figurines were a common sight on kitchen shelves or countertops. They might be brightly colored, hand-painted, or feature kitschy details. They were popular from the 20's to the 70's. It was a time when kitchens were often going for a Farmhouse Aesthetic. These figurines were mass produced, which made it easier for people to incorporate these decorative elements into their kitchens. The period between the World Wars and the post-war era saw a desire for bright and cheerful aesthetics in homes. The rooster's bold colors and lively image fit this optimistic mood.

Kitchen design in the 1950s and 1960s reflected the era's optimism and focus on technology. Functionality was key for the modern housewife, with dishwashers becoming a must-have. Aesthetics leaned towards cheerful colors like pastel pink and turquoise. Even the materials embraced the new age, with laminates and vinyl offering affordability alongside pops of metallic accents that hinted at a futuristic style. As the 60s rolled in, bolder colors like avocado green emerged, alongside lighter wood finishes for cabinets.

Let's take a look at the dominate kitchen decor trends for the last 50 years, since the 60's. 

1970s: Think harvest vibes! This decade was all about warm and cozy kitchens. Wood reigned supreme, with natural finishes and textures like knotty pine for cabinets. Appliances often hid behind cabinet panels for a streamlined look. Counter tops were earthy, featuring materials like ceramic tile and butcher block. And yes, the rooster motif was definitely a popular decorative element!

1980s: Boldness took center stage. Kitchens embraced bright colors, often in high-gloss finishes. Think cherry red cabinets, teal countertops, and black appliances. Stainless steel also started to gain popularity. Formica made a comeback, but with more geometric patterns.

The 1980s kitchen cabinet scene was all about a bold departure from the earthy tones of the 70s and a move towards a sleek, modern aesthetic. Here are the key trends for 80s kitchen cabinets. Gone were the harvest golds and burnt oranges. Teal, a vibrant blue-green, emerged as a popular choice, often in high-gloss finishes. Other trendy colors included white, black, and even cherry red. Laminate, a cost-effective and durable material was widely used for both cabinet doors and countertops. The high-gloss finishes helped accentuate the bold colors popular in the 80s.

1990s: A shift towards a more timeless look emerged. Neutral palettes dominated, with white and cream cabinets becoming a staple. Granite countertops became the new status symbol, often in dark colors to add contrast. The shabby chic aesthetic also found a home in kitchens, with distressed wood finishes and vintage accents.

2000s: The era of McMansions brought about a focus on grand kitchens. Open floor plans became trendy, with large islands offering additional prep space and seating. Stainless steel appliances became a must-have, and homeowners opted for sleek and modern finishes.

2010s: Minimalism took hold. Kitchens prioritized clean lines and uncluttered surfaces. Gray and white color schemes dominated, with pops of color added through backsplashes or artwork. Natural materials like wood and stone remained popular, but with a more modern twist.

2020's: 

The biggest trend in 2020's kitchen décor revolves around functionality and personalization, with a focus on these key areas:

• Smart technology integration: Appliances that can be controlled remotely, refrigerators that keep track of groceries and expiry dates, and smart lighting are becoming increasingly popular.

• A move away from all-white kitchens: While white kitchens remain attractive, there's a growing interest in warmer tones and pops of color for cabinetry and backsplashes. Blue and green hues are particularly trendy.

• Two-toned cabinets: Combining light and dark colored cabinets adds visual interest and can make a space feel more spacious.

• Textured surfaces: Think matte finishes, subway tiles with a handmade look, and unboring countertops made from quartz or soapstone.

• Open shelving: This gives the kitchen a light and airy feel, but it requires keeping things organized and clutter-free. The wine shelves at Native Range are perfect for this trendy decor style. 

• Personalized storage solutions: Built-in organizers, pull-out drawers, and hidden compartments help maximize storage space and keep the kitchen functional.

Kitchen trends of the 2030's

Kitchens of the 2030s are likely to be a blend of high-tech functionality and a focus on health and well-being. Imagine voice-controlled appliances, personalized cooking suggestions, an Ai menu, nutrition and recipe assistant, and maybe even holographic recipe guides. Sustainability might be a priority, with homegrown herbs or features that extend the life of fresh produce. The kitchen itself could become a multi-functional hub for work, socializing, and relaxation, with adaptable layouts and hidden appliances when not in use. The future kitchen might even cater to mental well-being with calming design elements and personalized features.

Staying Timeless

While trends may come and go, achieving a timeless kitchen is all about smart choices. Opt for natural materials that age well, like wood cabinets and stone countertops. Stick to a neutral color palette for walls and cabinets, with pops of color coming from easily changeable elements like decor. Classic design elements like shaker-style cabinets and clean lines ensure your kitchen won't look dated. Invest in high-quality construction for long-lasting functionality. Most importantly, design your kitchen for how you use it, prioritizing a smooth workflow. Finally, personalize your space with timeless touches that reflect your style, like vintage lighting or heirloom pieces. By focusing on these principles, you can create a kitchen that's both beautiful and trendy for years to come.