It makes sense that demographics play a big part in kitchen remodeling, especially when it comes to particular styles and finishes.
One of those said demographics is the millennial generation, which came of age at the beginning of the 21st century. In fact, there are more millennials than Baby Boomers these days, which means their voices—and tastes—have a noteworthy impact on societal and consumer trends.
What Would a Millennial Do?
Case in point? The choices millennials make as they buy homes and fix them up are quantifiable in housing and design surveys. If you're designing a kitchen today and there's a chance your home will go on the market in the near future, you may want to ask, "what would a millennial do?" (WWAMD).
In answer, we're sharing 5 interesting and data-proven trends driven by Millennial homeowners.
He would go out on a higher-budget kitchen
If that's a little steeper than you have available for your budget, don't worry. Options such as cabinet refacing will save you thousands so you can spend them on other, luxury items.
She would focus the design on timeless features
While they may be spending more money than the average Boomer, Gen X or Gen Yer, Millennial are doing it smartly. They're planning kitchen remodels spanning longer than a few years' worth of trends, using timeless design tenets that will remain stylish for 10-years or more.
This includes things like:
- Using neutral colors for the backdrop and implementing color via temporary accents that can be switched out over time.
- Selecting high-quality products for cabinets, counters and flooring so they won't need to be replaced.
- Balancing accents so they're relevant for today but won't become outdated by tomorrow.
Read Timeless Kitchens That Will Never Go Out of Style for more specific information on how to optimize your remodeling options for the long-haul.
He would install an amazing kitchen island
Houzz says millennials like kitchen islands. They see the benefits of more countertop square footage, increased storage and space for shi-shi coffee machines and high-tech kitchen gadgets.
Get the most out of a kitchen island design by:
- Installing hidden electrical outlets
- Incorporating something useful on the end cap - open shelving for cookbooks or attractive display items, glass cabinet doors with ambient interior lining, a wine cooler, etc.
- Extending the countertop overhang to accommodate extra seating
- Considering whether different countertop and/or cabinet finishes might add desirable contrast.
If you don't have room for a separate island, see if there's room for a peninsula, which offers many of the same perks without using as much space.
She would design a contemporary farmhouse
Here's one the Boomers will appreciate; millennials are more likely to opt for contemporary farmhouse designs than their older counterparts. Sounds like they appreciate the homeyness of Nana's kitchen, but with all the contemporary perks.
Contemporary features in a traditional kitchen design
He would choose quartz over granite
Millennials appreciate quartz's durability, longevity and low-maintenance benefits, as well as its multi-faceted beauty. Once again, Houzz tells us that Millennials prioritize look and feel over price, and they're also more apt to go outside the countertop norms, selecting butcher block or laminate options.
Are you looking to design a kitchen that a millennial would be proud of? Check out our latest kitchen design trends that will inspire homeowners of every generation!
