Technology and Sleek Style Make Kitchens Chic

(ARA) - According to the U.S. Census Bureau, from 1950 to 2004 the average size of the kitchen increased 216 percent, while the home itself increased by only 72 percent in size. So with all this extra space, are homeowners focusing on added function or fashion? The answer is both.

As today's kitchens continue to increase in size, staples such as appliances, countertops and faucets have transformed from once "ho-hum" objects to technologically advanced and highly stylized "must haves." Additionally, groundbreaking advancements have added new options for the kitchen. There are many ways you can create a chic and savvy kitchen that will be light years ahead of your neighbors.

Tech-Savvy Appliances
Technology is the focus in home design trends -- especially with appliances. When it comes to dishwashers, models may be certified by the National Sanitation Foundation, ensuring that they reach at least 150 degrees to thoroughly zap germs. Others offer automatic leak detection systems or models, such as the GE Cafe dishwasher, which features SmartDispense technology that allows users to fill the washer with an entire 45-ounce bottle of detergent and automatically dispense just the right amount each cycle.

Technology doesn't stop there. In fact, other hot trends include double ovens, wine fridges and refrigerators that offer everything from Internet access to express-chill drawers that cool beverages in minutes.

Stainless Style
Choosing appliances in a stainless steel finish will also give your kitchen a chic and polished look, keeping things consistent with your new, high-tech image. In fact, the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers found that 10 percent of all appliances are now stainless steel, up 3 percent from five years ago, and most designers agree that the stainless trend is here to stay.

Keep your cutting-edge design coordinated at the sink, by installing a faucet that also makes a bold design statement in a stainless finish. The Ascent kitchen collection from ShowHouse by Moen is available in a LifeShine Classic Stainless finish that elegantly coordinates with stainless steel kitchen appliances, sinks and hardware, and features three undeniably modern faucets with excellent utility: a pullout, pulldown and bar/prep faucet. Its bold, simple elegance is a perfect fit for your new, chic space and the high-arc spouts and crisp lines provide the best of both functionality and fashionable design. And, for an extra touch of technology, consider adding a pot filler to your stovetop area. Models such as the Pot Filler by ShowHouse are available in a coordinating Classic Stainless finish and feature a 24-inch double-joint arm and dual shut-offs for added ease.

Complementary and Classic Decor
Just because your kitchen is on the forefront of technology, doesn't mean the decor needs to be futuristic to match. Showcase your advancements by keeping countertops and cabinets subdued with a modern twist. Black is forever in fashion for its elegance and practicality and its ability to make accessories and other colors pop. Make this the rationale behind your choice of materials in the kitchen, and implement the trend toward darker accent colors in kitchens. Honed black granite creates a clean look that highlights stainless steel and your other accents. Look for drawer pulls and cabinet handles with minimal designs, as you don't want them to compete with the rest of your decor.

Go ahead and create the dream kitchen you've always wanted. By looking to the future with technological enhancements and timeless designs, your kitchen will stay chic for years to come.

Courtesy of ARAcontent