The combination of white and wood continues to set the standard in terms of kitchen design for the end of 2024. This combination not only brings modernism and warmth to this area but also makes the kitchen the true heart of the home.
Here are four tips to integrate this trend from leading Spanish and American interior designers based on their expert advice.
1. Create a white base to increase brightness
White conveys a feeling of spaciousness and clarity and using it as a base for walls and main furniture creates a sense of cleanliness and openness in the kitchen. In a recent interview for El Mueble magazine, Spanish designer Natalia Zubizarreta mentioned that “white furniture reflects natural light, so the kitchen feels brighter and more spacious.”
In this regard, famous American designer Bobby Berk suggested in Architectural Digest that “the white palette also makes it easy to highlight details in wood or other warm materials, achieving balance without saturating the space.”
2. Incorporate wood to add warmth
Wood brings a natural and cozy texture that creates a harmonious contrast with white. You can integrate it into countertops, shelves, or decorative details. El Mueble magazine emphasizes that “kitchens in white and wood manage to combine the freshness of light tones with the warmth of natural grains.” In this sense, American designer Amber Lewis recommends “opting for recycled wood or wood with matte finishes for a more natural and modern touch.”
3. Choose sustainability
Sustainability is key in today’s trends, especially in the kitchen. Choosing certified woods and eco-friendly finishes enriches the design and also contributes to environmental preservation.
In this regard, the furniture firm Santos emphasizes the importance of “materials that respect the environment and guarantee the durability of the kitchen,” to which American interior designer Kelly Wearstler adds that we should “choose sustainable materials that enhance the design without compromising the environment, such as wood from responsibly managed forests.”
4. Create a multifunctional space
As we have mentioned on several occasions, the modern kitchen is a versatile and multifunctional space that goes far beyond food preparation. Incorporating a center island or a wooden breakfast bar facilitates both family interaction and the flexibility to carry on different activities.
Spanish interior designer Asun Antó points out that “a U-shaped layout with white upper cabinets and wooden lower cabinets allows several people to be inside the kitchen without getting in each other’s way,” while Nate Berkus, a renowned American designer, mentions that “a central island in softwood can make the kitchen feel like the true epicenter of the house, ideal for meetings or working on family projects.” As you can see, these are simple tips that will help you transform your kitchen into a modern, cozy, and multifunctional space that follows current design trends.