Kitchen Design Trend: Straight Lines
When we think of the use of straight lines in kitchen design, we typically consider how they are used in terms of layout, e.g. to determine the working triangle and maximise space. However, designers are increasingly seeking new and creative ways to work straight lines into the kitchen space, going far beyond layout.
Straight lines influence both aspect and depth perception; while vertical lines make a space feel taller, horizontal lines widen the field of view. The use of geometric shapes in residential settings is a playful way to make straight lines more eye-catching whereas the idea of linear perspective, where parallel lines appear to converge in the distance, helps to make spaces feel larger and deeper.
In a world where plans rarely stay on track, integrating straight lines into interior design is becoming an increasingly popular kitchen design trend amongst homeowners. Impeccably straight lines rarely occur in nature, so perhaps consumers are drawn to the sense of security and stability against naturally occurring disorder that they symbolise.
There are a whole range of ways to incorporate the straight line trend into your kitchen designs. The most effective way(s) of doing so will depend on your customers’ desired overall aesthetic.
There are also a variety of products which can be used to integrate this trend into your designs. Here are some of the products available from Häfele which can help create the linear aesthetic:
1. Furniture
These Scilm plinth panels perfectly accentuate straight lines created by cabinet bases. The 3m plinth panels come with finishing strip included and are available in five striking finishes to suit both contemporary and period-style kitchens: anodised silver, powder coated graphite, anodised bronze, anodised brushed copper and anodised brushed brass. Clips and plinth connectors are available to order separately.
2. Lighting
When hung in a straight line above a kitchen countertop, pendant lights can emphasise kitchen cabinets’ vertical, straight lines. The Harry drum LED ceiling pendant features a distinctive, hand-blown glass shade, available in a clear or champagne finish. It comes with an accompanying circular ceiling plate (in antique brass or satin nickel). Supplied with the all the necessary fixings for easy installation, the pendant can also be vertically adjusted up to 1200mm.
3. Technology
Technology in the form of cookers, hobs and flat screen televisions are great for enhancing the straight line kitchen design trend. This Smeg Victoria range cooker in dark grey combines a sharp, linear design with outstanding functionality. It comprises a main oven, auxiliary oven and grill compartment with a gas hob, which each boast a range of different cooking functions.
4. Accessories
Maximise the linear effect of your splashbacks with AluSplash. This revolutionary aluminium-based splashback allows a straight, unbroken finish to be maintained, unlike tiles, and can even be used behind the hob. Available in ten on-trend colours, AluSplash is an affordable, durable and easy to install choice that will add a chic, sharp line to any kitchen design.
Häfele are proud to be the exclusive UK distributors for AluSplash, find out more about Alusplash here.
5. Small Appliances
Encourage your customers to opt for small domestic appliances that either have a straight design, or contrast the linear theme, such as the Smeg ECF01 Coffee Machine - tall, slimline and with beautifully bold curved detail. Easy to use and maintain, the machine makes professional-style coffee and is guaranteed to become a firm favourite with your customers.
6. Handles
Incorporate straight style handles, such as this new Fosil lever handle, into your designs, to carry the linear look down to even the finishing touches. Available in a choice of four finishes, (brushed black nickel, brushed nickel, rose gold and matt black painted,) the handles are suitable for a door thickness of 35-43 mm and come supplied with fixing screws. Matching escutcheons are also available.
If you want to integrate the straight line trend into your kitchen design projects, click below.
