Whether you’re looking to redecorate your kitchen or are ready for a complete remodel, you’ll want to make sure the job is done right, and preferably with style! Any makeover, no matter how big or small, requires inspiration, which you are likely to receive from countless magazines, billboards, blogs, and your friends’ decorative keys. But how do you sift through all of these options and choose a style that is sure to stand the test of time? If you’re ready to put the noise aside and make decisions that are sure to last, it’s time to get acquainted with the popular trends many modern, quality kitchens embrace. Read on for the top five bold traits that are taking the industry by storm.

1. Elegant color choices

If it’s a neat and elegant look you’re after, white cabinets stand out above the rest. White not only creates a light and pleasant atmosphere, it is also timeless, perfectly complementing everything from natural hues to brilliant bursts of color. So you can’t go wrong with this clean and versatile look, especially if you’re prone to frequent redecoration projects.

While white is undoubtedly the leader of the bunch in quality kitchens, you can also go for darker shades if you want to swim against the current and spice up your space. Colors like stone gray, plum or even black are gaining ground and will surely give your space a dramatic touch that will surprise your visitors. However, keep in mind that these shades can make your kitchen too dark, especially if there is little natural light.

2. Fully extendable drawers

Many quality kitchens still have upper and lower rows of cabinets with doors, but this trend is on a clear downward trajectory. After all, who still wants to have a row of bottom cabinets with doors when you could have slippery drawers that extend all the way instead? This ingenious storage solution not only allows you to get a complete overview of the drawer’s contents at a glance, it also allows you to effectively maximize and organize your space. That’s right: no more partially empty cabinets because you can’t reach the furthest corners. The drawers save you the hassle of bending over and rummaging through your cabinets, and they look gorgeous too!

3. Versatile kitchen islands

Along with lower cabinets with doors, more and more quality kitchens are saying goodbye to wall cabinets to create a brighter, less cluttered space. As a result, the islands are getting bigger and better, simultaneously functioning as an area for food preparation, informal dining, and storage. Its versatility is illustrated by a hot trend in open-plan homes, in which islands that extend into the dining room or living room area are becoming more common. Never underestimate the functionality of these multifaceted wonders!

4. Fabulous floors

Solid wood flooring is and will always be one of the top competitors in this category, but let’s take a moment to consider the popular alternatives. Synthetic wood and ceramic tiles are more practical when it comes to maintenance and are available in a wide range of styles and textures. So why not go for one of these materials, which can mimic the sophistication of hardwood floors, but won’t stain and doesn’t require regular varnishing. Ease and elegance all in one.

5. Technology takes over

Control lighting from your smartphone, have your refrigerator tell you what food you need to buy, and wake up to the smell of fresh coffee without lifting a finger. These are just a few of the ways that technological developments can take your space to new heights, making daily tasks easier, faster, and not to mention cooler! From virtual assistants with voice response to faucets with motion sensors, the future of quality kitchens is digital. Are you ready to take the leap?

While there are a lot of industry crazy things you could buy into, we know these five trends are here to stay. Don’t forget to check them out when your next kitchen makeover arrives! They are guaranteed to get you started on the right foot.