It’s one the latest trends emerging at the recent EuroCucina fair, the popular Milano Design Week collateral event: the kitchen is ever less a simple place apt to satisfy basic needs and ever more a hybrid, multifunctional space that blends seamlessly into the living zone.

Last edition of EuroCucina, the reference international kitchen fair concurrent with the Salone del Mobile, the hype was all for a kitchen characterised by fluid spaces and ever more multifunctional, to the point of becoming a hybrid space thanks to the disappearance of traditional partitions separating it from the rest of the house.

The kitchen has progressively acquired the status of the home’s “centre of gravity”.
A room ever less exclusively dedicated to satisfying basic needs and increasingly taking on the role of “the place” for conviviality and socialising, and where most of the family’s daily activities tend to take place. From home-office to homework, from conference calls to relaxing and sharing. Extending over an area of 16,000 square meters, EuroCucina hosted more than 80 exhibitors from all over the world, who presented the latest trends that will hit the kitchen industry in the coming months.

Let's embark on this journey of discovery together, drawing inspiration from the innovative suggestions of foremost market leaders in the field of kitchen furniture design.

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Kitchens: ever more on the living side!

THE KITCHEN OPENS UP ON THE LIVING ROOM
The prevailing trend sweeping through modern homes is that of the open-plan kitchen, where boundaries blur, and spaces intertwine harmoniously with the living area. This architectural marvel epitomizes the fluidity of contemporary living, where culinary creativity seamlessly mingles with leisure and relaxation.

Layouts now embrace a fresh perspective as the home's architecture undergoes a transformative renaissance. Novel modules emerge as connective threads between the kitchen and the adjacent living spaces. Amid the enduring popularity of multifunctional islands, which have evolved into even grander and more intricate forms, new design elements debut. Glass display cabinets exude sophistication, showcasing culinary treasures and artistic flair. Bookshelves provide a canvas for literary passions to intertwine with culinary pursuits. These innovative partitions, emerging as functional works of art, blend seamlessly into the kitchen, symbolizing a harmonious coexistence between culinary utility and artistic expression.

These architectural features stand as both formal markers and fluid integrators. On the one hand, they offer a poised separation from the encompassing open-plan space, delineating distinct zones. On the other hand, they masterfully weave the culinary realm into the fabric of the living room. This fusion transcends physical boundaries, creating a symphony of styles that compose a coherent narrative between spaces.

This open-plan approach isn't just an architectural choice; it's a testament to a modern lifestyle that celebrates unity and diversity. It's a canvas for moments of culinary creativity that transition seamlessly into cosy conversations and shared experiences.

The open-plan kitchen isn't just a space; it's an ode to the interconnectedness of our lives, where every culinary masterpiece finds its place in a mosaic of memories.
The kitchen is now one of the specialised areas within the living open-space, together with the dining spot, the library corner, the sitting area and the TV lounge.

Ernestomeda
The new Sign kitchen meets the other domestic spaces and becomes an extension of the living room.
The traditional upper cabinetry leaves space to glass display-cabinets and à-giorno boiserie to create an element of harmony and continuity with the living room area.
www.ernestomeda.com

DOIMO CUCINE
In the D23+ Aspen kitchen, columns become the central element of the layout, redefining the space and the functional zones. The kitchen becomes the focal point of conviviality, and the retractable doors conceal the appliances and the operational areas.
The pantry takes on a new, central role.
Serving bowls, vases and glassware are now beautifully on display, creating a sense of harmony with the rest of the house.
www.doimocucine.com

ROSSANA
ISØLA redefines the disrupting concept of the first models of kitchen islands designed by Carlo Colombo at the end of the 1960’s.
A single-block model with an architectural structure reveals an open kitchen, ready to interact with the surrounding space.
ISØLA is a kitchen by all means, but also a living room thanks to the new free-standing wall that provides a physical, stylish partition between the work area and the living zone.
www.rossana.com

ON WITH BOISERIES, ACCESSORIES AND TECH SOLUTIONS
Experience the kitchen of tomorrow with innovative concepts shaping the culinary landscape.
Adjacent to the pantry and the meticulously organised work zones, a realm of novel and highly specialised spaces now beckons—a realm that transcends the conventional roles of cooking and dining, inviting you to experience a symphony of multifaceted activities. This visionary evolution has seen the creation of bespoke areas designed not only for culinary creation and indulgence but also for lively conversations, celebratory gatherings, focused work, and serene relaxation.

At the forefront of this culinary renaissance lies a convergence of cutting-edge technology and architectural ingenuity. Here, innovation takes the form of spaces that move with grace and purpose, even embracing mobility. Imagine countertops that glide horizontally, effortlessly transforming your workspace, unveiling concealed sinks, or extending snack counters. Delve more profoundly, and you'll encounter worktops that ascend and descend at the touch of a button, seamlessly transitioning between barstool counters and exquisitely tailored work surfaces.

The dining area emerges as a masterpiece of design, adorned with floating shelves and sleek metal trays that stand independently from the kitchen walls. These elegant structures cradle bottles and poised-to-serve delicacies, enhancing the dining experience with convenience and artistry.

A captivating trend emerges in the form of modular, panelled boiserie. These artistic creations offer a canvas for functionality, adorned with a medley of elements designed to cradle bottles, display glasses, house fresh herbs, and provide a resting place for essential kitchen tools.
It's a harmonious fusion of aesthetics and utility where artistry and culinary exploration converge.

In pursuing space optimisation, bright columns emerge as the ultimate solution. Their retractable doors unveil generous shelves where pots and pans nestle securely. These columns are also versatile enough to provide an additional foldable surface, ideal for an impromptu work area. Once the culinary masterpiece is complete, a graceful transformation brings everything back to a pristine state, a testament to the symphony of design and functionality.

Even larger homes are enchanted by the allure of retractable and walk-in kitchens. Through ingenious engineering, smart doors seamlessly conceal entire suites of substantial domestic appliances, from awe-inspiring wine cellars to verdant greenhouses, from spacious larders to the efficiency of laundry units. This integration isn't just about optimising space; it's about creating an environment where innovation, luxury, and practicality intertwine.

In this culinary age of innovation, where every corner transforms and every appliance harmonise with design, the kitchen transcends its conventional boundaries. It becomes a dynamic canvas where culinary artistry and modern living coalesce in a breathtaking display of creativity, technology, and functionality.

Molteni&C/Dada
Dada’s Tivalì 2.0 integrated kitchen extends over a linear space of 2,40m to 3m and can be entirely concealed into a single piece of furniture with two large folding doors.
Its amphitheatre shape and the arching worktop make for a great scenic effect.
www.dada-kitchens.com

SCAVOLINI - JEOMETRICA
This project by Luca Nichetto constitutes a complete furniture system involving, in addition to the kitchen itself, the living room and the bathroom, ensuring consistence in styles throughout the house.
Aluminium-frame doors (in white, anthracite-grey or titanium), curved steel-tube handles and an accessorised laminate back-panel characterise the project.
www.scavolini.com

L’Ottocento
Floral Botanica boiserie lines the space with a versatile, accessorised-panels system.
It can be personalised according to one’s needs and the intended use of the space: kitchen or living room.
Contributing to the modularity of the furnishing, it combines with the new Archetipo dark oak island, featuring drawers and resting on two stands hiding all the cabling.
www.lottocento.it

HOME OFFICE
In a remarkable evolution, modern kitchen design has transcended its traditional boundaries to embrace the home office concept. This approach acknowledges the shifting dynamics of our lives, where the kitchen, once solely dedicated to culinary pursuits, now emerges as a versatile haven for productivity and focus.

This transformation heralds the emergence of contained yet supremely functional workstations within the kitchen domain. These strategically designed and thoughtfully integrated spaces serve as tranquil cocoons that afford a serene refuge for work. No longer confined to the conventional office setup, these compact workstations extend a warm invitation for quiet contemplation, uninterrupted thought, and seamless concentration.

Yet, it is not just about solitude and serenity. The contemporary kitchen is now a dynamic hub, embracing the challenges of our multitasking lives. Here, the countertops that have witnessed the creation of gastronomic delights effortlessly transition into operational bases for professional endeavours. These multitasking counters, the epitome of adaptability, effortlessly metamorphose into work desks equipped to accommodate laptops, documents, and modern communication tools.

The synergy between function and aesthetics in this concept is truly breathtaking. Every element, from the ergonomic arrangement of these workstations to the incorporation of technology and storage solutions, is meticulously crafted to enhance the kitchen space's utility and visual allure. The result is an ensemble that seamlessly merges culinary artistry and professional excellence.

This innovative blend of the kitchen and home office is a testament to the adaptability of design in catering to the dynamic demands of contemporary living. It addresses the practical need for dedicated workspaces and celebrates the fluidity of modern life, where transitions between cooking, working, and engaging with loved ones occur seamlessly. As the culinary heart of the home takes on this new multifaceted role, it exemplifies the power of design to shape spaces that mirror our ever-evolving aspirations and lifestyles.

CESAR
THE 50’S redefines the containment bookcase systems of the 1950’s in a modern key and with new functionalities. The system can be equipped for the kitchen, the living room or a mix of both.
It can feature ovens, wine cellars and other small appliances, and storage bays for kitchen utensils and accessories.
www.cesar.it

TM Italia
The de-structuring of space and function is the concept behind the new Avignon kitchen.The true innovation is the invisible integration of additional functions that go beyond the classic features of a kitchen.They are located in the extension countertop of the central island, which becomes the house’s social, work and entertainment hub.The retractable Home Office block can store a laptop, mouse, keyboard and stationery, and also features sockets and USB ports.The unit is fully automated and is controlled through a dedicated app to deploy and retract it.
www.tmitalia.it

SNAIDERO
The Way minimalist kitchen ensures maximum versatility in terms of home office space thanks to specific solutions such as the Spazio sliding top transforming the worktop in a desk in a single move, and the e-Wall system featuring a free standing cabinet transforming into a complete smart working station.
www.snaidero.com

KITCHEN FORM AND FUNCTION
The evolution of the kitchen is a captivating journey that has gradually ushered in a new era by shedding the vestiges of tradition in favour of sleek, contemporary designs. This transformation has shifted from ornate and intricate features to the allure of minimalistic, linear layouts that are sculptural masterpieces in the modern home.

These single-block layouts have transcended mere functionality to become the very altars of our living spaces, where the sacred rituals of culinary creation unfold. Every preparation is an act of devotion, with these streamlined marvels serving as the canvas upon which flavours meld and textures dance. It's not just cooking; it's a symphony of senses orchestrated by the modern kitchen's artistic prowess.

In this modern culinary sanctuary, the prevailing trend is a celebration of pure, essential lines. These lines embody the following function, where aesthetics and practicality harmonize seamlessly. This aesthetic philosophy is a homage to the principle of design that flourishes in functionality, reminding us that beauty emerges when every element serves a purpose.

Yet, even in its quest for simplicity, this contemporary kitchen doesn't shy away from moments of tenderness. The occasional softening of those essential lines doesn't compromise functionality; instead, it infuses warmth into the heart of the home. Like the gentle curve of a spoon or the soft touch of a well-worn cookbook, these subtleties remind us of the human touch that enriches every culinary endeavour.

The modern kitchen, with its streamlined contours and functional finesse, is a testimony to the art of living well. It is a canvas for creativity, a stage for innovation, and an altar for connection. As tradition gracefully transforms into the future, the essence remains: the kitchen is where life's sustenance is prepared and where the heart of the home beats most vibrantly.

Veneta Cucine
Lounge is a contemporary and sophisticated kitchen system featuring fine woodwork, glossy or matt lacquers with liquid metal finishes, Fenix laminates, steel and also glossy and matt lacquered glasses, wood grosgrain or matt lacquered caneté with a metal finish.
www.venetacucine.com

Arrex
The AL 32 has a minimal, rigorous design, enhanced by the smooth, matt glass doors of the cabinetry nicely framing the sink zone. The frame of the central island, featuring a table with a transparent glass support, is in recycled aluminium for the grey anthracite finish, and in multilayered HPL for the concrete finish.
www.arrex.it

Scic
The new edition of the Labirinto kitchen is characterised by a simple, precise design and a special attention to the choice of materials.
The use of stainless steel combined with Canaletto walnut wood for the open shelves gives it a distinctive look.
The key element of the entire kitchen is the smoky quartz top by Antolini, with its natural, metallic iridescence going from brown to grey and enhanced by some clever backlighting.
www.scic.it

KITCHEN FORM AND COLOURS
Experimenting with materials emerges as the main theme of last Eurocucina.
Technological innovation provides ever harder materials for worktops, more resistant to abrasion and chemical agents, but also to bumps, UV rays and thermal shock.

The new nishes, like glass, often come texturised, reproducing the looks of natural materials such as marble and wood, which, together with quartz, are the new stars of the kitchen.
New designs offer a combination of them to make the reference to nature even stronger.
Also, there is an extensive use of concrete, in some cases an imitation of, and of stainless steel, often in a “total look” version.
Nature inspired the stone, marble and wood nishes, enhanced by glossy polishes that seem to have supplanted the matt coatings.

As an alternative, especially for cabinet doors and worktops, porcelain stoneware with a marble effect are all the hype.
Nature also inspires the choice of colours: neutral palettes combined with textured nishes constitute the new trend.

There’s a wide variety of greys and greens, from sage to jungle-green, to warmer and velvety shades, evoking the spices used in the kitchen. White remains a great classic, but more on the ivory side, as well as matt black.

SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability remains a paramount and ever-evolving concern within the realms of design and consumer preferences. In response to an increasingly environmentally conscious and discerning clientele, brands provide products and materials that align with ethical and ecological values.
At its core, this sustainability movement represents a pivotal shift towards responsible sourcing and manufacturing.
Brands are acutely aware of their roles as stewards of the environment, and as such, they're taking measures to reduce their carbon footprint and promote resource conservation. This manifests in products and materials that are visually appealing and bear the hallmark of eco-friendliness.

One of the cornerstones of this movement is the integration of sustainable processes that span the entire lifecycle of a product. Each step is meticulously examined for its environmental impact, from the initial stages of material selection and sourcing to production, distribution, and eventual disposal. This conscientious approach minimises waste and encourages the development of innovative solutions that embrace renewable resources and closed-loop systems.

An essential facet of sustainable design lies in the product's longevity. Brands are moving from the temporary to the enduring, creating items built to stand the test of time. This shift aligns with the principles of sustainable consumption, advocating for fewer replacements and less frequent disposals. The result is not just a reduction in waste but also a move towards creating cherished, timeless pieces that have aesthetic and emotional value.
Moreover, sustainable initiatives within the design world go beyond the individual product level. Collaborations are forming across industries to share best practices and accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly methods.

Brands are working closely with suppliers to ensure that sustainable values permeate every facet of production, fostering a culture of responsibility and environmental stewardship.
In essence, sustainability has transcended being a mere trend; it's now an ethos deeply rooted in design and consumption principles. As brands continue to rise to the challenge of meeting the demands of an eco-conscious clientele, the design landscape evolves to reflect a harmonious relationship between aesthetics, functionality, and environmental integrity. The future of design is visually stunning and a testament to the commitment to preserving the planet for future generations.

ARAN
Imagined by chef Davide Oldani and created in collaboration with designer Attila Veress, the CUCINAnD’O kitchen offers a retractable doors system on the entire length of the kitchen wall. The minimalist look of the central island underlines the attention to responsible consumption of which Oldani himself is a fervent proponent. The basic idea of his anti-waste cuisine is that, in order to avoid wasting food, it is important not to produce any surplus in the first place.
www.arancucine.it

STOSA CUCINE
Metropolis is the first kitchen of the Stosa range to be entirely made of Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) certified cabinetry.
The FSC guarantees the wood employed in certified products come from forests that are subject to very strict environmental, economic and social standards.
www.stosamilano.it

FTK
TECH
TRENDS

Courtesy Salone del Mobile.Milano (1 - 3 photo: Luca Fiammenghi) (2 - 4 photo: Diego Ravier)

At FTK -Technology For the Kitchen, a side exhibition of EuroCucina dedicated to built-in domestic appliances and their evolution through prototypes and “concept cars” - nearly all brands have presented smarter, more versatile, multifunctional and sustainable products.
Sustainability is in fact a common theme to all exhibitors, and all are engaged in contributing to the planet’s safeguards by investing in new production processes that, for instance, will build appliances with 50% recycled plastics, or by making them ever more energy efficient and more sustainable through smart lighting and specialised technology.
In the cooling business, almost all of the products now have multiple compartments, each specialised in the preservation of specific food items in order to keep them fresher for longer and avoid food waste.
The cellar compartment has a temperature between 8°C and 12°C for cheese and cured meats, while the chiller drawer keeps a0°C temperature, ideal for meat or fish.
The crisper drawers, where fruit and vegetables are stored, can adjust humidity levels.
Refrigerators and freezers can be remotely managed though dedicated apps on one’s smartphone.
Functions, temperatures and other settings can be easily adjusted remotely.

Copyright HOMA 2023
This article is from "des.mag." - Issue No.2, a Homa editorial project to promote design culture.

Editor in Chief: Federico Rebaudo. 
Project Coordination: Federico Gallina
Art Direction: Sara Marabini
Editorial Coordination: Studio Volpi srl

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