BOHO STYLE MEETS SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE: Designing Eco-Friendly and Free-Spirited Spaces

 

Boho Style Living Room

When envisioning boho-style architecture, many people picture vibrant textiles, eclectic furniture, aesthetic colors, and lush indoor greenery—all elements that exude a free-spirited and artistic charm. In contrast, sustainable architecture often brings to mind eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and a commitment to protecting our planet. At first glance, these two concepts may appear to be worlds apart: one rooted in aesthetic expression and lifestyle, the other centered on environmental ethics. However, a closer inspection reveals that boho style and sustainability are not only compatible but also beautifully interconnected, creating spaces that are both visually stunning and environmentally responsible.

OBJECTIVE

In today's environmentally conscious world, a new trend is emerging within the world of architectural design – the “sustainable bohemian design.” This approach blends the traditional bohemian spirit with a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices, ethical sourcing, and mindful consumption. If you're attracted to the charm of bohemian design but want your home to reflect your values, “sustainable bohemian interior design” provides a unique and fulfilling option. Having explored various architectural styles, I find that "Boho" or "Bohemian" style aligns closely with "sustainable architecture." This is due to the incorporation of key architectural elements that promote a sustainable lifestyle for the building's occupants.

In this blog, I will discuss the key elements of Boho design to enhance your awareness and reading enjoyment. Discover how Boho style architecture aligns with sustainable design principles. Learn how natural materials, upcycling, and a love for nature make bohemian-inspired spaces both eco-friendly and timeless.

BOHO STYLE DESIGN DEFINED IN GENERAL TERMS AND A LITTLE HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

I tried to look for the term boho or bohemian style architecture on Wikipedia.com, for our definition, but they only have it in general terms, mostly referring to fashion and lifestyle. However, according to them, the Bohemian style, often referred to as 'Boho chic,' is a fashion and lifestyle choice characterized by its unconventional and free-spirited essence. While its exact origins are debated, Bohemian style is believed to have been influenced by the nomadic lifestyle of the Romani people from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. The term 'Bohemian' itself comes from the French word 'Bohémien,' which was originally associated with the Roma community due to a historical misconception that they originated from Bohemia, a region in the Czech Republic. Throughout history, Bohemian fashion has undergone significant transformations, reflecting the cultural shifts and influences of each era. 

Today, contemporary Bohemian fashion embraces flowing fabrics, vibrant colors, and natural, woven materials, rather than knitted ones. I believe this definition also applies to architecture and interior design for furniture fabrics, and other elements. This style draws inspiration from various sources, including the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s, reminiscent of the attire worn by attendees of the inaugural Woodstock music festival. The Bohemian style has gained global popularity, appealing to individuals seeking a unique and individualistic approach to fashion and lifestyle. It encourages a sense of freedom and self-expression, often attracting those who prefer to live unconventionally—sometimes in a nomadic manner—and who may choose to reside in colonies or communes, fostering a strong sense of community. 

KEY ELEMENTS OF BOHO STYLE ARCHITECTURE

1. A Love for Natural Materials

Boho design aesthetically incorporates materials such as wood, rattan, bamboo, clay, linen, and wool. These choices not only enhance warmth and texture but also align with sustainable design principles that emphasize the use of renewable, biodegradable, and locally sourced materials. By opting out of synthetic products and mass-produced finishes, both styles champion authenticity and eco-friendly living, inviting you to create a more conscious and inviting space.

Rattan furniture is made of natural material.

2. Upcycling and Reuse as a Lifestyle

Boho style stands out for its unique blend of vintage treasures, repurposed décors, and artisanal creations. This emphasis on items that are “collected over time” perfectly aligns with sustainability's circular philosophy—extending the life of materials and reducing waste. By choosing thrifted furniture, heirlooms, and repurposed pieces, you not only embrace a narrative rich in history but also play a vital role in lessening the demand for new resource extraction. Embrace boho style, and make a positive impact on our planet!

3. A Deep Connection to Nature

Boho interiors thrive on the beauty of indoor plants, earthy tones, and a harmonious layout that cultivates a soothing atmosphere. This aesthetic resonates with the principles of biophilic design in sustainable architecture, which promotes natural light, fresh airflow, and vibrant greenery to enhance the well-being of occupants. By embracing these concepts, we can create spaces that not only uplift and inspire but also reconnect individuals with the tranquility of nature, ultimately leading to healthier and more joyful living environments.

Biophilic Bohemian Style Bedroom

4. Supporting Local Craftsmanship

Embracing handmade textiles, artisanal furniture, and locally sourced décor is vital to achieving the essence of boho design. This not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports sustainable architecture by bolstering local economies and cutting down on transportation emissions. By choosing handcrafted pieces over mass-produced items, you not only enrich your space with cultural authenticity but also champion environmental responsibility, making a positive impact on our world.

5. Flexibility and Longevity

Boho style embodies the essence of adaptability, seamlessly combining layers of furniture and décor that evolve over time, telling unique personal stories instead of chasing fleeting trends. Similarly, sustainable architecture champions versatile spaces that adjust to the changing needs of their occupants, effectively reducing waste and the financial burden of constant renovations. Both celebrate longevity and flexibility, making them far superior to disposable, short-term solutions that ultimately undermine our living environments.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Boho style architecture celebrates aesthetic freedom and individuality, while sustainable architecture prioritizes ecological responsibility. However, these two styles share a powerful connection: they both promote authenticity, foster natural connections, and encourage thoughtful living. When combined, they produce spaces that are not only visually captivating but also environmentally considerate—homes that weave narratives while honoring the planet. The vibrant spirit of boho creativity harmonizes seamlessly with sustainable principles, illustrating that design and responsibility can truly thrive together. This fusion invites us to embrace a lifestyle that is both stylish and conscientious, proving that we do not have to compromise on one for the other.

Ar J CASTANEDA

Architect, Sustainable Architecture

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CITATIONS AND PHOTO ATTRIBUTIONS:

DEFINITION OF BOHEMIAN STYLE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bohemian_style

Photos are original copyrighted materials owned by Architalktural.

FREEHAND SKETCHES AND DIGITAL METHOD IN THE DESIGN ARENA (PART 2)

 

This is a continuation of our 3-part mini-series, the first of which, I concluded with the following words:

“In the next episodes, we can expect AI to enter the arena. Oh well, let's just welcome it, but I believe we should not let it dominate the show. Instead, let us use our own creativity and use AI as a modern tool only that we have full control of. Use it to enhance our own ingenuity, nothing more, nothing less. So what do you think? Come, join me in this journey...”

The truth is that I have nothing against the digital method, or should I say, a design process with much precision and efficiency. Of course, we must always innovate and push forward advancements in technology, not only in architecture, but also in all fields of knowledge. My point is to utilize both manual and digital methods with a sense of balance and appropriateness. I believe that our personal creativity is a gift from the one who created us, and so, we should not let it simply slip away from our hands. In the design arena, we should not treat the digital side as an opponent, but rather consider it as a friend or teammate instead. I believe that in the field of architecture, freehand drawing and digital media should work together in harmony to meet our ultimate goal – to turn our imagination into reality.

OBJECTIVE 

Aside from my personal experiences, I occasionally used research work in Academia.com, which is supported by citations that eventually support the authenticity of this blog, which serves as a commentary on the referenced research work in return. This time, I found one that suits my objective in this blog. It's a research work submitted by Mirjana Pali, an Architecture graduate of Epoka University in Albania. So, please expect me to quote some excerpts from the research work to help us understand more deeply the objective of this blog.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF FREEHAND OR MANUAL DRAWING

In the first part of this series, I quoted from a research work mentioning the prehistoric or even neolithic era, while Pali's writings elaborate more on the Renaissance and Modern era:

“The two-dimensional drawings are traced from the ancient Egypt as the first mediums used in thinking and design process. At the time of the Renaissance, the information detected from the two-dimensional drawings wasn't sufficient and that is why Filippo Brunelleschi introduced perspective and the three-dimensional physical model. Since then, physical models have been widely used for presenting the mass, details, interior space, and structural relationships of a design, becoming a very important tool through the design process. The same methodology was also used during the nineteenth century, helping the masters in understanding better the volumes and the spaces created. It is interesting and surprising how architects like Frei Otto, Pier Luigi Nervi, Anton Gaudi proposed such complex geometries in a time when technology wasn't involved in architecture. Each of them brought an innovation in different techniques of working with physical models and templates to experiment with the free form geometries. Also, in the twentieth century architects main tools to design projects with very complicated shapes and curved forms, were the physical models of various scales.

However, the advance of technology in the areas of building, environmental control and computing, meant that architectural design processes needed to be adapted with the modern tools. (Hadjri, 2003) So, in the digital age, the designers faced a new thinking process and explored new, unconventional shapes in a more efficient and practical way.”

TRADITIONAL DESIGN MEDIUMS AND DIGITAL MEDIA

In this section, let me just give a brief commentary on the research paper done by Ms. Pali. Two major mediums were described: (1) Sketching as a medium; and (2) Modeling as a medium. Although sketching was the traditional medium used in communication between the architect and the constructors even since the Gothic era, and has been widely used for centuries, no one could prevent the use of digital sketching from entering the design world. On the other hand, modeling as a medium was not exempt from the duel. Here, the works of Antonio Gaudí were highlighted, where he uses physical and explorative tools such as hanging chain models or stacking plaster pieces. However, there were challenging factors that made the design process quite difficult. The efficiency depends on the expertise and skills of the architect, according to Ms. Pali.

ARCHITECTURE IN THE DIGITAL AGE

As per Ms. Mirjana Pali, “...the introduction of these new tools (computers) may limit the expression of the creative work. Therefore, care should be taken when using this tool in architectural design.” I absolutely agree with Ms. Pali on her point of view on this matter. I have always been pointing out that a careful sense of balance should be taken into consideration when using new and traditional tools together in the design process.

Pali mentioned about two notable architects that had opened the way to a new architecture that is born (the digital architecture): (1) Frank Gehry who used CATIA computer program, as an important design tool, to produce a smooth and well dimensioned steel structure pavilion for Barcelona; and (2) Peter Eisenman who also used computer to design the Aronoff Centre for Design and Art by generating a series of tilted building forms.

THE CHALLENGE

With regards to the computer-based design, Ms Mirjana Pali quoted that, “...it limits the creativity of the designer, who is more focused on the shape and the rules that different programs provide to him and in this way he is just producing an automatically product, that everyone could do it. So, what makes one design special from the other is the idea and the imagination behind it and not the shape or its construction. Finding a way of integrating both of these approaches would be the best and most efficient solution during the design process.”

The emergence of digital architecture has greatly influenced both the educational and working sectors, according to Ms. Pali. There has been a gap that has emerged between the actual curriculum in schools and the digital approach and which has caused some difficulties for students. She said, “One way of intervention in this process could be using combined design techniques, starting producing physical models in different scales, than following with 3-Dimensional digitalization, ending up with the 3D modeling. And in this way, we can manage better the changes happening in the modern society.” Again, this statement apparently coincided with the solution that I was trying to point out in my previous blogs concerning the “sense of balance” for both the traditional and digital design process.

For the working sector, Ms. Pali quoted some examples of programs like Rapid Prototyping, Digital Design Fabrication, CNC Machines, DIM, and BIM models are integrated in the process of creative design, in order to build a bridge between conceptual design, produced in architectural studios, and real-world construction.

Once in my career, I have encountered making a study on the use of CNC machines and how the operator should be trained in order to produce a physical model based on the samples given in physical form. However, the difficulty arose when the management decided to train the existing Machinist who used to operate the conventional machine. It has to take so much time, effort, and money to fund the training because we need to train the Machinist to be a designer first and teach him how to operate CNC. I think that’s one good example of the effect of the transition in technology.

For me, the effect of digital methods in design has a greater impact on the workforce than on schools. Students and school faculty could adjust based on the availability of equipment in carrying out the education process, but in the workforce, companies or freelancers have to meet the growing demand for digital presentations. It is because, timetable is a very critical factor in project management nowadays, and companies have to compete with rival designers who could meet the client’s requirements.

On my part, I used to be proficient in AutoCAD, but my skill gradually became stagnant as I went on and climbed the ladder for so many years with very minimal use of the software, until I turned into an intermediate user. Fortunately, Sketchup became popular and I had the chance to learn and use it as 3D modeling tool. While there are dedicated BIM software solutions like Autodesk Revit and ArchiCAD, you might be surprised to learn that SketchUp, can also be used effectively for BIM purposes.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I am finalizing this blog through an agreement with Ms. Pali's statement: “As we live in a period when digital developments are widely influencing the design process, treating the effects that cause the gap between physical and digital mediums will help in reaching the goals of this paper, in order to finalize it with a new, effective and practical design method for the architects of the digitalized age."

As we have been discussing so much about digital design and architecture, I should say that nowadays, AI technology is becoming so popular and widely used in the design industry. It is so phenomenal, and its rapid growth far exceeds all the recorded advancements in the world of digital technology. It is so imminent that even non-professionals can create something that appears professional to many, not only in architecture and interior design, but in almost every field: from song composition and music arrangement to creating artworks, graphic design, and creative writing, among many others. Now, we couldn’t hide the fact that it seems so threatening for designers like us, huh? What do you think? Let’s talk more about it on the last episode of this series. Thanks for following.

Joey Castaneda

Architect

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CITATION:

Excerpts and photos taken from the following website:

https://www.academia.edu/37379157/Bridging_the_gap_between_handmade_and_digital_media_Computational_Design_in_Architecture

Other photos courtesy of https://www.pixabay.com

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This document may contain copyrighted material whose use may not have been acknowledged by the copyright owner. We believe that this constitutes a "fair use" of the copyrighted material as generally provided for in every copyright law of the country in which it was produced. If you wish to use this copyrighted material for your own purpose that goes beyond "fair use," you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. On the other hand, if you see that your copyright material appears on this website and you disagree with our assessment that it constitutes "fair use," contact us.

FREEHAND SKETCHES AND DIGITAL METHOD IN THE DESIGN ARENA (PART 1)

 

I strongly believe that the traditional freehand sketching method in design, especially in architecture, should be treated the same way as how we conserve our own cultural heritage. That would include the way we preserve our ancestral homes as part of our advocacy for sustainability and continuity. The traditional freehand sketching style deserves a place in the heart of every architect who doesn't want the style to simply slip away from our individually gifted hands. - Joey Castaneda 

 

Throughout the years, computer technology (not to mention the emergence of AI) has gradually invaded the world of design. This shift is much like the impact of modern machinery in various industries and crafts, where machine production has replaced handmade methods. Freehand sketches used to be the star of the show for centuries, a fundamental knowledge in architectural design education, even from the generation where I came from (1980’s), yet the tradition has been facing significant challenges due to the appeal of the digital revolution. It has influenced all fields, prompting educational institutions to include relevant study materials in their curriculum. As a result, architectural students are encouraged to adopt these digital tools, making it increasingly challenging to maintain proficiency in traditional sketching techniques amid the rapid and extensive development of design applications.  

 

The question is whether freehand sketches still retain their important position in light of the development of computer applications. Furthermore, can an architect design without the aid of freehand drawing these days? I’ll leave the challenge to you.  

 

OBJECTIVE 

As part of my advocacy for the conservation of cultural heritage, I wrote this blog post. Despite the advancements in technology, I believe that the old-fashioned technique of freehand sketching and rendering should be maintained. However, I believe this fight should begin with us, pioneer architects and educators. We should not let the advancement swallow the tradition and let it totally diminish from the industry. In the fight for cultural preservation, our ancestors won. They took care of it for centuries, and they earned the victory because the evidence is still intact to this date. 

 

DEFINING ASSOCIATED KEYWORDS 

The first thing to do is to identify the subject matter, starting with its keywords and their definitions. I referred to some useful vocabulary references to find the easiest non-technical definitions. 

 

FIRSTLY, what is design? Wikipedia says, "A design is the concept of or proposal for an object, process, or system. The word design refers to something that is or has been intentionally created by a thinking agent, and is sometimes used to refer to the inherent nature of something – its design." Sounds like a great definition, but way too technical for my readers. So anyway, since I love my readers, I decided to take a look at how educators define it. I went to research work done by a university faculty member of Mattaria-Helwan University in the mid-east region, Ehab Nasr (see citations). According to Nasr, "Design is a creative process which brings an idea to reality." Wow! That was so simple and direct to the point. So, I think let’s just stick to the professor's definitions. 

 

Our next keyword is "freehand sketching." - "Freehand sketches are a translation or expression of one's thought within an understandable and intelligible frame."  

 

Lastly is "digital architecture." - "The digital architecture is a new type of architectural engineering produced by digital technologies and accompanied by an emerging new approach in the forms and functions. The digital architecture uses the computer models, simulation, programming and images for creating the material architectural model."

 

 

A BRIEF HISTORY OF FREEHAND DRAWING 

According to a research work entitled Asia and Middle East Freehand Drawing and Architectural Expression by Hanif Budiman, Ibrahim Numan, Noor Cholis Idham (see citation): 

“Drawing is a fundamental form of human expression. Prehistoric drawings depicting aspects of early societies, such as hunting scenes, have been found in caves in southern Europe (Moran, 2013). Humans used drawing as a way of expressing their existence. The other earliest type of drawing was also found on the walls of caves in India, China, Australia, South America, even in Celebes in Indonesia. The drawing produced by Neolithic times were eventually stylized and simplified into symbol systems (proto-writing) and eventually into early writing systems. The development of the drawing is founded in early civilizations such as in the Indus valley and Egypt. This idea is a picture symbol or pictogram, a symbol pattern that has been arranged as a communication language with a certain pattern that implies a certain purpose.” 

 

In other words, drawing originated from the prehistoric writings of our ancestors. Therefore, drawing started as a means of communication and endures up to this time when we perform drawing, regardless of whether it is freehand or digital, in communicating with our clients as part of the planning and design process. 

 

THE ROLE OF FREEHAND SKETCHING IN THE DESIGN PROCESS 

It would be very straightforward to say that freehand sketching is still essential in the process of architectural planning and design. We cannot deny that not even the design trend, or technological advancement to the extent of the introduction of AI, could eliminate the use of the freehand sketch method. Before we can finalize the design using the digital method, it should always begin with the conceptualization and analysis stage which is best and quickly done by applying freehand sketching. For a detailed example of the process, I refer to a figure below taken from Mattaria–Helwan University research work by Ehab Nasr (see citation): 

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF FREEHAND SKETCHES 

Not only in architecture, but even in other fields of art such as traditional painting, artists always ought to begin by sketching the draft before the paintbrush touches the canvas. That’s where we can see the importance. In a discussion of this topic, a like-minded friend encouraged that if we push to keep the artistic side alive rather than letting the focus be purely on efficiency, maybe we can shift the trend. I kind of agree with this; just like the seafarers, I guess we really should shift the stirring wheel to reach our target destination.

For digital artists, it's a relief to know about the invention of drawing tablets where they could apply freehand sketching through a digital pen using the application software. This is a good example of a mixed design method. Architects performing conceptual planning could make use of this combined method that maintains the application of artistic skills and digital technology simultaneously. Therefore, finished products are both aesthetically and efficiently designed. 

 

USES OF FREEHAND SKETCHES IN DESIGN 

Based on the outline in Nasr’s research, the following are the uses of freehand sketches: 

A. Thinking tool: It is a means for generating, conceiving, putting forth and testing the ideas (visual - inspiration process development - design ideas crystallization - imagining - noticing).  

B. Communication tool: Freehand sketches are means of communication between the architect and himself, the architect, work team, the professor and architectural student. It is a means of dialogue between the architect and the project owner as an abstract language on understanding and communication between the parties of the design process.  

C. Interpretation, analysis and comparison tool: It helps in making the vision and interpretation of the design problems and its solutions and comparing between alternatives for choosing the best. 

D. Expression of innovation: The individual expression of the initial idea and it is also means of the innovating process; expression of an idea whether Interpreting, explaining, visual, recording the mental impressions.  

E. Exploration and development tool: Whereas it is used as means of exploring the design problems and finding out many solutions to it. It also helps the architect to explore and understand the design form and helps in developing the ideas for reaching the final thought.  

F. Documentation tool: It is used in coordination between the eye and hand to be a mean through which the images can be imported, documented and helps also in the historical documentation. 

 

DIGITAL APPLICATION USES IN DESIGN PROCESS 

The uses of digital application in the design process include:  

• Data Collection& Analysis.  
• Conceptual Design Preparation.  
• Idea Development.  
• Computer Aided Design& Presentation (2D& 3D).  
• Simulation.  
• Digital and Physical Building Model (Generation of architectural forms)  
• Remote Collaboration.  
• Virtual Reality. 

Putting together all the information derived from Nasr's work represents the importance of freehand sketching in the design process to the extent that it can encourage architects to prevent the gradual diminution of sketching in the workplace. Instead, it should be integrated with digital methods and treated as design components working together in a system that is aimed to create aesthetic, yet efficient work of art. 

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

I would not elaborate this topic much in this blog since I want to turn this into an interesting mini-series I have in mind. I figured out that this subject could not be discussed in one sitting only and I believe the information I have shared so far would be good enough so you may understand the overview of my objective. It is the cultural identity and the sense of originality of the architect or an artist that I want to emphasize and preserve in this endeavor. The bottom line is that we should stop arguing about which one is best. Let's discuss this with a sense of balance.

In the next episodes, we can expect AI to enter the arena. Oh well, let's just welcome it, but I believe we should not let it dominate the show. Instead, let us use our own creativity and use AI as a modern tool only that we have full control of. Use it to enhance our own ingenuity, nothing more, nothing less. So what do you think? Come, join me in this journey... 

JOEY CASTANEDA, Architect

Link in account for architectural works.

Linktree account for artworks.

CITATIONS:

Excerpts and photos of research documents submitted by the following authors to https://www.academia.edu/

• Ehab Nasr Elden Ahamed Mohamed, THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL ARCHITECTURE ON FREEHAND SKETCHES THROUGH DESIGN PROCESS, Department of Architectural – Faculty of Engineering Mattaria – Helwan University – Cairo – Egypt. Emirates Journal for Engineering Research, 19 (1), 49-60 (2014)

• Hanif Budiman, Ibrahim Numan, Noor, Cholis Idham, Freehand Drawing and Architectural Expression; 1 Architecture Department, Faculty of Architecture And Design, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University, Istanbul 2 Architecture Department, Faculty of Architecture And Design, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University, Istanbul, 3 Architecture Department, Faculty of Civil Engineering And Planning, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta JOURNAL OF ARCHITECTURAL RESEARCH AND DESIGN STUDIES 

• Other photos taken from Pixabay and Pexel websites

FAIR USE DISCLAIMER:

This document may contain copyrighted material whose use may not have been acknowledged by the copyright owner. We believe that this constitutes a "fair use" of the copyrighted material as generally provided for in every copyright law of the country in which it was produced. If you wish to use this copyrighted material for your own purpose that goes beyond "fair use," you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. On the other hand, if you see that your copyright material appears on this website and you disagree with our assessment that it constitutes "fair use," contact us.

KITCHEN INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2025

"Nothing is more important than ever to feel relaxed at home after a long day at work and be connected in the kitchen. That feeling would always give us the urge to think about placing our kitchen at the top of the list, whenever we plan for any upgrade or renovation in the house. Yet given the constant introduction of new equipment, design concepts, and finishes, you might be wondering which kitchen design trends will endure. So, what's worth investing in? And what are the items should you discard?" - Joey Castaneda, Architect

OBJECTIVE

My involvement in food manufacturing projects earlier in my architectural career motivated me to compile these kitchen design trends. Aside from the design of huge food processing plants, I was also involved in the design of model kitchens for food outlets located in some shopping malls and other commercial establishments to promote a food based franchise business.

In my observation, the momentum started by recent trends, which included a focus on storage, accents with a natural theme, and modernized technology in fixtures, appliances, and lighting, is continuing up to last year. The simple luxury of organic style is complemented by recent kitchen designs, while improved utility is the primary objective of updates and renovations. With these seven kitchen design trends, you can make your kitchen function the way you want it to while also adding flair and substance that will last for years.

Here are seven kitchen design trends you may adapt for your homes this year:

1. Smart Kitchen

Appliances are becoming smarter nowadays. Technology advancements are no longer just for sound systems and media rooms; they are also making significant strides in the kitchen. The integrated smart-technology alternatives and systems that support end users' lifestyles have been revolutionary and appear to develop daily. Today, you may find technology incorporated into the majority of kitchen appliances and equipment. Same thing also applies with kitchen components from basic touch-closing cabinets to smart faucets that can be operated by your smart phones. The luxury kitchen design trend is truly moving toward smart kitchens. Experts point out that most clients are spending more time at home; they want their kitchens to simplify their day-to-day activities. You might be worrying this option is expensive and belongs to the elites. The good news is that, not anymore. As technology advances, older versions are still in the market and eventually become more affordable. Keep searching and you will find one that might suit your budget.

Another related factor is the energy efficiency of the equipment. Due to the increasing energy cost nowadays, this matter has been given the most attention whenever homeowners plan to do kitchen makeovers or extensions. However, this usually falls under the functional category, rather than aesthetical. Moreover, kitchen equipment manufacturers nowadays go with the design trend too, and even fashionable to the extent of blending, if not exactly matching, with specific color themes.

Just like automobiles, kitchen appliances nowadays are getting eco-friendly. But further than that, buyers nowadays are considering more factors such as ESG or Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance. This goes along with the Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs. These must be new to your ears, but I believe there are some few enthusiasts who are already aware and conscious about these factors when buying products. Nevertheless, I am not an energy person, though I have concern with environment, but these are not my expertise, so I would not go any deeper into the subject matter. My main goal is to provide you with some useful design pointers, hoping the items I have compiled would somehow bring about valuable thoughts on your decision making whenever you think about a kitchen make-over or incorporating some of them, if not all, in building your new homes. Well, you may want to apply these ideas in other parts of the house too. Why not?

2. Natural Wood Tones

There is no doubt that natural wood is still a material of choice for most clients and home experts. Wood helps to provide organic vibes and natural accent to the kitchen by connecting it to the outside environment. However, the trend does not actually allow the material to dominate the arena. To maintain a contemporary touch, wooden surfaces blend along with granite working countertops.

3. Glass Cabinet Doors

We just could not hide the fact that we always lusted for the elegance of glass in every part of the house, office or building facades. Have you noticed lately that not only the dining or terraces are equipped with glass doors? Wooden or plain kitchen cabinets nowadays are being combined with a couple of glass doors, mostly frosted type, regardless of function, whether decorative or storage.

4. Mirror Splash Backs

My earlier career dictates the now called traditional design trend when we used to specify the same materials for the countertop and the wall. However, you yourselves would notice some new kitchens today with separate material for the horizontal and vertical surface. And to take note, glasses or mirrors are now the higher end choice for the wall which adds elegance and extended kitchen appearance. To add a few, it also adds extra mirror function for the end user, some would enjoy such ambiance while working in the kitchen, or simply just pouring out drink or having a quick snack. Of course, this type of idea should be categorized into the personalized option. They still could go for other materials or colors of their choice, depending on their personality, as long as it is compatible without compromising designer’s recommendations. Some would consider the cost of the material, which is somewhat practical for both sides.

5. Bold Lighting

Kitchens nowadays are drastically stealing the entertainment limelight at home and becoming an instant rock star, a title traditionally owned by the living or dining rooms. Of course, in every entertainment event, the star of the show always earns the brightest and most sophisticated lighting. That is why from the dim lighting trend during my younger days, pendant lighting is the best choice today.                                                                                                                                                                 

This revolution was brought about by the recent lifestyle trend which turns cooking as a good way to entertain guests, where homeowners are able to show-off their talents, rather than sitting down in the living room watching TV. Of course, the role of the designers is to adjust with such lifestyle change in order to stay in tune. To create interest, interior designers usually play with the size of the lighting fixtures, up to the extent of recommending industrial-style options, that breaks up the lines and create vibrant silhouettes. This works well with clients who don’t just think about a facelift, but also considering a slight expansion of the kitchen area.

6. Stand out Taps

Another design trend that is becoming more popular these days is the use of stand-out taps. The increasing demand makes manufacturers produce a selection of finishes such as silver, brass and the standard chrome. But the black and white ones are eventually becoming the mainstream in the market. New kitchens without stand out taps couldn’t really represent the title “new kitchen” at all. So whether you do the purchasing yourself or your contractor does it for you, make sure you add one in your shopping cart. You may want to consider this model.

7. Kitchen Plants

Another way of bringing the outside in is putting plants on the vacant spaces or shelves in kitchens, dining and even the living area. Besides filtering the air naturally and enhancing our mood, house plants are not just a trend considering its long-lasting popularity. Not to mention its never-ending blend with wooden finishes or furniture pieces.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Considering all the above-mentioned design trends, there is one characteristic of modern kitchen that applies to all. It's none other than a "minimalist kitchen." Our cover photo above and the picture below represent as a good examples.

Planning a renovation or not, I would greatly advise that you always love your kitchen. Remember that this is a space that brings the whole family together and at the same time will help you entertain guests. If ever you want to push through with the plan, whether you decide to go with the trend or just your heart, have fun with it. Make sure it addresses your needs, and keep in mind that even though remodeling process might be so tedious and occasionally exhausting, it will be worth it in the end.

Joey Castaneda

Architect/Artist

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