Kitchen Styles Go Organic in 2013

What’s on deck for 2013 kitchen styles? How about warm, earthy gourmet spaces? Mix wood, slate, stone, and other rustic materials with industrial pieces. Now you’ve got the new style. Here’s what you’ll be seeing in new kitchens in 2013.

In a current article in House Beautiful, Peter Dunham calls the new kitchen style “homey.” The Los Angeles-based designer says, “We’re moving toward a more organic modernism with warm, modern materials that look vintage: slate, irregular floors, weathered concrete, natural crackle-glazed tiles that look handmade. Less slick kitchens!”

Yes, we’ll be seeing a lot of wood and stone in 2013 — but not the way you’ve seen it before. Look for pieces in a more rustic, natural form — then pair them up with warm, rich colors for a more lived-in and inviting look.

Earthy Colors

Greens, blues, grays, browns, yellows, reds — these colors will be making a grand appearance in kitchens across the country. Whether on painted, weathered cabinets or handmade, upcycled tile, earthen colors will warm up our cooking spaces like never before. All shades are fair game, unless they glow neon. Stick to what you find in nature, and you’ll be right in style.

Organic Wood Cabinets

Instead of traditionally styled, stained, and glazed cabinets with fancy millwork, look for a more understated display of rustic wood on cabinet surfaces. Spalted maple or natural birch drawer fronts will be mixed with clean, industrial-styled cabinet doors and brushed stainless steel. And this year, austere shaker cabinets will be reinvented in many ways. It will be a welcome, yet unusual departure from the kitchens of the last 10 years.

Wood, Stone, or Tile Counters

Granite may not be the material of choice for countertops anymore. Wood and stone like slate should dominate — then add tile tops and backsplashes with a handmade look and feel. It’s all about color and textures that make you feel at home and comfortable this year.

Materials in Their Natural Form

Anywhere you can use materials in their natural form, it’s time to do so. Exposed beams on walls and ceilings will add a rural touch in some kitchens. Wood counters will sport natural, unfinished edges in their shift to a more organic style.

Rustic Floors

Rustic floors will be the rage. Reclaimed wood or polished concrete with amazing stain work will pull the other organic elements of the room together. Slate floors will also be in demand over highly polished marble or tile. Yet even in their natural form, these floors will still be a work of art. Artisans will be lending their expertise to make them part of a unique and extraordinary kitchen design statement.

Check out pictures and inspiration for this article in the Organic Kitchen Designs ideabook on Houzz and see what interesting changes 2013 has in store for your next kitchen remodel.

Enjoy more home decor ideas from Terry Mulligan:

Is it Wise to Buy and Decorate Your Dream House Now?
5 Easy Ways to Save Space with a Bench in Your Dining Room
6 Perfect Wood Accessories for Your Kitchen