It’s the new year and now is the perfect time to plan out a kitchen remodel. Whether it’s a big total overhaul or just an aesthetic update, devising a plan now will have you enjoying your kitchen once the summer and fall seasons are here—not to mention finally having the space for that holiday cooking. Let’s check out some of the most popular and latest kitchen remodeling options to inspire your imagination and get your kitchen remodel wishlist off to a beautiful start.

1. Double island. There’s no doubt, we love our kitchen islands. So much so that it’s been decided that one just isn’t enough! When you think of all the functionality an island offers, it makes sense that two-times the storage and seating can be twice as nice. If you have the floor space to add in a second island (either side by side or one in front of the other) it can actually be a cost-effective way to bring greater function to your space as opposed to building additional walls. Elements to include can be a microwave drawer, wine chiller, trash compactor, sink, cabinetry, open shelving, and an induction cooktop. Don’t forget to save room for plenty of seating!
2. Natural elements. Kitchen remodels are warming up with touches of the outdoors and more natural elements than ever before. While granite used to be the most popular countertop choice, today, butcher block is back. Not only is it a sustainable and ecologically friendly countertop option, but it’s also extremely durable and functional. Other softer, more traditional tones like aged brick and reclaimed wood are making a comeback for their timelessness and coziness. After years of all white ultra-modern kitchens, this trend will make any kitchen feel more welcoming and serene.
3. Liven-up with lighting. Remodeling a kitchen doesn’t have to mean a total gut. Instead, the addition of just new lighting can have a transformative effect on updating this space. Cabinet lighting is a very popular option that brings a high-end, curated look to cabinets. Rather than repainting your cabinet doors, opt for mullioned glass cabinet doors, lit from within. Replacing the pendant lighting you currently have with larger; more statement pieces is a simple and instant way to update the space.
4. Low profile cabinets and appliances. For lovers of a sleek, modern look, things are getting even more futuristic. While for years we wanted to show off our shiny stainless-steel appliances, now we’re focused on concealing them to blend in with cabinetry to create a continuous visual flow. Whether high-shine or matte finished, low-profile cabinetry doesn’t have the hardware or inlaid designs like traditional cabinets. Instead, they create one streamline look that is a very dramatic visual. Look for cabinetry which now features fingerprint-resistant coatings that keep them looking perfectly polished. Conceal appliances using custom cabinetry options or opt for new appliances which come in matching shades.
5. What’s better than one kitchen? More than one kitchen? Yes, it’s a thing. As the kitchen becomes more the heart of the home where entertaining, homework and family breakfasts take place, many homeowners are looking for more convenient places to prep, bake, and store a growing supply of small appliances and gadgets. From butler’s pantries to breakfast bars and dishwashing stations, you can create a separate space for virtually any task that could use its separate area. Why not put that wasted hallway space or pantry closet to better use? A second kitchen doesn’t have to be a full build out of an all-new kitchen. It can sound excessive but may become one of your favorite spaces in the house.
6. Large and impressive stove hoods. With microwaves moving into easy-to-access drawers within cabinets and islands, more space is getting freed up above the stove. This can become the perfect place for a large, decorative kitchen hood. Not only does a kitchen hood become a formal focal point that provides a kitchen with a bit of architectural structure and elegance, but they are extremely functional. Not only does a vent help keep your kitchen from overheating and reduces the amount of humidity in the space, but it can vastly improve the health and air quality of your home. There are lot of unhealthy chemicals produced in the cooking process, not to mention smoke and grease. Although there are ventless hood options available, a vented hood is the best option for helping to keep your indoor air quality at its safest.