The beginning of the year often brings a renewed interest in a change and potential renovation.

This is the time when many homeowners look to finally take on that long-desired renovation project.

When it comes to upgrades, redoing one’s kitchen often tops the list.

What are the current trends in design?

And how can you create a kitchen space that is both current and inviting without being overly trendy?

Black countertops: Black countertops remain popular, especially for those looking for a modern, hip vibe.

Wood elements: From butcher block countertops to wood cabinetry in unexpected shades, wood remains a solid choice for those looking for durability.

White cabinets: You simply cannot go wrong with white cabinets. Elegant and neutral, white is a timeless choice that never goes out of style.

Two-tone cabinetry: The trend for more than a decade is to mix two materials or two colors of cabinetry.

Kitchen islands: From both an aesthetic as well as functional standpoint such as an additional eat-in kitchen option, kitchen islands are a popular standard in kitchen design.

Mudrooms: These days, there is a growing desire to keep mess out of the kitchen. And mudrooms serve a distinct purpose for those who desire to ensure that outdoor elements are not tracked through their indoors.

Hidden pantries: For many homeowners, the desire is for storage to be tucked away as opposed to open and visible.

Expansive backsplashes: Tile and stone are key elements to glam up your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to go big and bold!

Hidden outlets: There is a current design trend toward hidden outlets and switches and clean backsplashes.