Materials come and go, but there's one enduring material that is set to make up the focal point of our kitchens long into the future: glass. And the way to bring this into our interiors this year is through fluted and antiqued glass – in cabinetry, architecture and backsplashes.
See: Kitchen trends – new looks and innovations for cabinets, worktops and more
These ever-stylish features are not only chic but practical too, as they accentuate the light in your kitchen – thus making the space feel brighter and more spacious. Plus, as we begin to welcome guests into our kitchens once again, it is only fitting that we dress the room for the occasion in the most stylish outfit possible.
But why else has glass suddenly taken over our kitchens, and why should we make the change if we haven't already? Here, the experts share their thoughts.
Why are these glass features growing in popularity?
Our recent Homes & Gardens report found that fluted glass and glass backsplashes have transformed many kitchens over the past year, but what is the main driving force behind their success?
'Generally, we are seeing a return to glass within the kitchen – glazed cupboards featuring fluted glass, glass backsplashes in delicate shades and with silver threads for luminosity and jewel-colored glass pendant lights,' says Director of The Regency Kitchen & Bathroom Company, Richard Moore.
Their popularity coincides with the ever-accelerating importance of sustainability as we move away from 'disposable materials that look good for a small time frame but that need to be replaced immediately,' Nina Anastasopoulou at Harvey Jones also suggests.
'Customers are now looking for materials and products that will add value to their homes and will last as we tend to stay longer in our properties,' she adds.
See: Kitchen ideas – decor and decorating ideas for all kitchens
Why should we bring glass into our kitchens?
This is what the experts have to say about why – and how to – introduce glass into your kitchen design.
1. Emphasize the light in your space
'Glass and mirrored backsplashes are a great choice that allows light to travel further within the room,' begins the Creative Director at Harvey Jones, Melissa Klink.
Her thoughts are highlighted by Owner and Design Director at Higham Furniture, Tim Higham, who explains that antique glass backsplashes can 'bounce light around a room and create a feeling of space whilst being less blingy as clear mirrors.'
See: Kitchen layout ideas – clever ways to arrange cabinetry and configure your space
2. Glass creates the illusion of space
'Any use of clear, reflective, and mirrored surfaces will add energy to an area, helping the kitchen feel more open,' Melissa explains, in her discussion of what is, perhaps, glass' greatest asset.
She continues: 'An antiqued mirror, in particular, will add interest and help disperse the feeling of being constantly on display, while clear glass is a wonderful clean option that can be introduced to accentuate the color palette of the room.'
3. Combine vintage aesthetic to contemporary luxury
'Using a mirror is the perfect way to make any small space feel bigger and brighter, whether it's above the basin in a tiny bathroom or in a small kitchen as a backsplash or decorative piece,' begins Home Designer at Neptune Fulham, George Miller.
'A mirror creates a more open and spacious atmosphere, and if you want to add some texture and variation to the look and feel, antiqued glass works perfectly with its unique vintage finish,' he adds.
4. Fluted glass is minimalistic
Despite radiating light from inside a cupboard, Tim praises fluted glass for its obscuring powers that conceal the contents of a cupboard and leave your kitchen looking clean, uncluttered, and indisputably minimalistic. 'Fluted glass obscures the contents of a cupboard but still allows any lighting inside to create a warm atmosphere,' Tim shares.
Meanwhile, Kitchen Designer Tom Howley equally praises glass's ability to create an 'ambient light source when enjoying a romantic dinner or cocktails with friends,' especially when used on the front of a cupboard.
5. Glass creates a reflective finish – that will lift a dark kitchen
See: Small kitchen ideas – designs for compact kitchens
If you have a particularly dark kitchen, or you're looking to elevate a more shaded shade, Tom Howley recommends finishing with glass, which 'maximizes the flow of light into darker corners.'
They have a lovely reflection which helps in a darker room,' adds deVOL's Creative Director, Helen Parker.
The future of our kitchens looks very bright (and beautifully stylish) indeed.
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