Have you ever noticed how your kitchen is like a magnet? The family seems to collect there. When you have guests, they all seem to end up there. We are in the kitchen many times per day, preparing every meal, drink and snack. We see that space A LOT. The kitchen really is the heart of the home, and it should be a place that is pleasing to your eyes. 

Taking on a kitchen renovation project is not something to be taken lightly, and the time one takes now to plan can make all the difference. Budgeting for the costs of a dream renovation may involve refinancing the home or saving over the years, which gives you ample time to consider a design that fits your style. While the term “timeless” is often tossed around in the design world, trends do come and go, but the opportunity to remodel a second time may not. So you’ll want to make sure you’re happy with the results for years to come!

Taking on a kitchen renovation project is not something to be taken lightly, and the time one takes now to plan can make all the difference. Budgeting for the costs of a dream renovation may involve refinancing the home or saving over the years, which gives you ample time to consider a design that fits your style. While the term “timeless” is often tossed around in the design world, trends do come and go, but the opportunity to remodel a second time may not. So you’ll want to make sure you’re happy with the results for years to come! 

Increased time at home thanks to the pandemic has people looking at their kitchens in a new way. They want something that works for them and reflects their personal style. Now, homeowners are weighing both the resale value as well as, “What do I want to see in my home?” equally in their design decisions. They want something timeless that will take them through whatever comes next.

But timeless doesn’t mean bland and it doesn’t mean neutral either. Timeless design is about making sure your choices aren’t bound to trends that quickly change and become dated (how is that avocado accent wall holding up for you?). It includes choosing high-quality materials that can age gracefully throughout decades of frying, broiling, baking, and memory-making. 

Good choices for your project means, most importantly, you will end up with a kitchen you love spending time in and showing off.

We’re always going to be eating, entertaining and gathering in the hearth of the home. Let’s create a kitchen that inspires, one that surrounds us in functionality, that adds to the joy we create and the memories made. Adrienne Gallman, showroom manager of Short Hills Marble and Tile gave us some tips.

Go Neutral? Not Necessarily.

Kitchen designed in partnership with Stonington Cabinetry & Designs features a Dynasty White slab countertop.

For a while, people thought white cabinets and white subway tiles were timeless because the color is neutral. But more and more we find people longing for some personality. Gallman suggests looking at the details. “Details on cabinets can add personality. You can use ceramic tiles but use them in different patterns,” she suggests. While at first glance, this kitchen is predominantly white, brass accents and fixtures add warmth to the design. The walnut range and navy blue island bring a richness and depth the design would otherwise lack with traditional platinum accents. 

You Don’t Have to Play It Safe

Custom cut-to-fit Roberto Waterjet mosaic was designed and installed in collaboration with Toth Construction & Design

Many experts recommend staying ‘safe’ regarding style and design choices to ensure the best resale value. With the pandemic, more people are “nesting” and staying put. They plan to stay in their homes for a few years and want to invest in design choices with more of their own unique personality. Gallman says one way to do this is to opt for the many spectacular colors and styles out there. “The way you put them in patterns makes a big difference,” she says. 

This backsplash was done in Allstone / Short Hills Marble & Tile exclusive Roberto Waterjet pattern. Blue Macuba and Lagos Azul natural stones add pops of blue that pair with the offset mosaic used for most of the backsplash without being overpowering. The shades of blue, gray, and taupe that compose the Roberto Waterjet mosaic create a statement piece in a kitchen without falling into the trap of being “trendy”; the muted tones are adaptable to changes in fixtures and accents to keep this kitchen on trend for years to come.

What are Qualities of a Timeless Kitchen

Featuring Nestos stone slab, subway tile, Adelaine mosaic, and Penny Round mosaic.

If you aren’t an expert in design, sometimes it’s hard to know what are timeless choices and what are trendy items that will end up looking dated in a very short time. It may also be difficult to know what pieces work well together and what’s clashing. While giving your kitchen some personality, it’s easy to take an “anything goes” attitude and just pick what you love. But if you want a timeless design that has some longevity, there are some considerations to keep in mind. “Timeless is about balance and harmony,” says Gallman. “Choose where you want to create impact and make sure it plays well with other elements.” 

Which style do you like best for your kitchen? Comment below!

Checkout our full line of tile & mosaics at shorthillstile.com