Read this before you renovate!
1. Apron-front sinks
Photo: alisonkandler_interiordesign/Instagram
These farmhouse fixtures offer plenty of space for filling pots or washing dishes. Keep in mind that countertops have to be retrofitted to accommodate apron-front sinks — it’s not an easy swap if you grow tired of the look.
2. Black matte faucets
Photo: wendymaurodesign/Instagram
Come to the dark side. Black hardware contrasts beautifully against brilliant white countertops. This industrial-style high-arc faucet is from California Faucets.
3. Hammered copper sinks
Photo: mrdirect/Instagram
Copper is surprisingly low-maintenance. It is naturally anti-bacterial and fairly stain-resistant. However, it’s best to avoid contact with acidic foods and harsh chemicals as they will strip the patina off. This apron-front copper sink is from MR Direct.
4. Touchless faucets
Photo: oasisshowrooms/Instagram
If you’re prone to making a mess in the kitchen, you’ll want to consider touchless technology for your next faucet upgrade. This model is the Avery touchless kitchen faucet from American Standard.
5. Fluted-front sinks
Photo: restorationonline.com.au/Instagram
It’s all in the (architectural) details. Fluting refers to the vertical grooves in this elegant farmhouse sink. Australian company Restoration Online makes this fireclay model.
6. Industrial spiral faucets
Photo: kinkadedesign/Instagram
These flexible faucets are no longer just for commercial kitchens. Wash pots and pans with ease using the pull-down spray head.
7. Integrated drainboards
Photo: bresbasicbungalow/Instagram
This sink features not one, but two integrated drainboards. Popularized in the 20th-century, the slightly raised surface allows water from recently-washed dishes to trickle into the sink. Cut down on your dishwasher use by hand-washing your dishes and leaving them out to dry.
8. Warm metallic faucets
Photo: dahl.decor/Instagram
Don’t be afraid to mix metal finishes in the kitchen. Warm metallics, such as copper, bronze, brass and gold, are a welcome change from the polished chrome faucets we’re so used to seeing. This model is the pull-down Delta Cassidy faucet in champagne bronze.
9. Black composite sinks
Photo: rachelsanghee/Instagram
Inject a bit of drama into your kitchen with a black composite sink. The color hides any and all stains, and because the material is engineered, it’s extremely durable and cost-effective.
10. Pot fillers
Photo: rocksolidbuilders_ariella/Instagram
Pot fillers are a luxurious, yet convenient kitchen add-on. Sure, you’ll need to extend the water supply line, but boiling spaghetti with ease makes it well worth the investment.
11. Gold sinks
Photo: shoprachelgeorge/Instagram
If a black sink is too dark for your taste, perhaps you’d prefer a 24 karat kitchen instead. This gorgeous gold sink is from Norwegian kitchen, bathroom and wardrobe manufacturer Drømmekjøkkenet.
12. Bridge faucets
Photo: hollingsworthshowroom/Instagram
Yet another relic of the 20th-century, bridge faucets feature a horizontal bar that connects the hot and cold taps. This jaw-dropping design from Easton boasts an antiqued brass finish.
13. Double-bowl sinks
Photo: blancocanada/Instagram
Not so much a trend as a kitchen staple, double-bowl sinks are super practical. They make it easy to hand-wash dishes, wash produce, or utilize the garbage disposal. This design is from Blanco Canada.
14. Patinated faucets
Photo by James Bombales, design by Cynthia Soda
The chemical process of patination occurs as copper and bronze ages over time. The discoloration offers a weathered, rustic look. Although the kitchen faucet above is relatively new, as it ages it will develop a richer golden hue.
15. Marble sinks
Photo: addisonswonderland/Instagram
Is there anything more luxurious than an apron-front sink crafted from the same slab of marble as the countertops? This custom design by A Polished Finish looks absolutely seamless. Marble requires a fair amount of upkeep, so make sure you’re up to the task before committing to the soft natural stone.
