As another year of building homes and creating neighborhoods throughout the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area comes to a close, the Riverside Homebuilders team wanted to look back at some of the trends we saw in the heart of the home: the kitchen. Design Gallery Consultants Marissa Beisner and Hannah Bankhead provided some insight into the popular selections homeowners made in 2021, and what sought-after finishes will continue on in the new year. 

Q: What were some of the most popular selections homeowners made for their kitchens this year? 

Marissa: Many people wanted to keep their kitchen light and bright with painted cabinets this year. 

Hannah: We saw lots of light cabinets with either a darker painted or natural stained island, more patterned backsplashes and more durable flooring in the kitchens (luxury vinyl plank or wood-look tile). Lots of buyers also chose shaker style cabinets that they planned to add black or gold hardware to down the line for a more custom look. 

Q: What do you think influenced kitchen trends this year?

Marissa: I think people had a little more time on their hands. They spent extra time at home, giving them more opportunities to think about design and watch plenty of HGTV! 

Hannah: Kitchens are creating statements in our open floor plans, helping to set the tone for the rest of the home. The open concept floor plans make the kitchen not only more functional with director access to living and dining areas, but also more visible. 

Q: What were some of the most popular upgrades in kitchens this year?

Marissa: I would say upgrading the backsplash to a pattern or fun shape was popular, as well as upgrading the flooring from tile to either luxury vinyl plank or wood-look tile. 

Hannah: Buyers spent a little extra money on the decorative wood range hoods, wood-look tile flooring and upgraded backsplashes.  

Q: Are there any trends you see gaining traction that will continue to be really popular into 2022? 

Marissa: Luxury vinyl plank flooring will continue to gain popularity, and the more earthy neutral tones are starting to make a comeback as well. 

Hannah: We’re seeing lots of neutral and wood tones coming back to the kitchen. 

Q: Any trends that you personally love that you hope to see more of next year?

Marissa: I really like the contrast of using black accents alongside more natural materials. 

Hannah: I personally love a fun backsplash, as well as the durability of the luxury vinyl plank and wood-look tile. The color options in these products give homeowners so many possibilities to really set the stage for their personal style. 

Q: How does Riverside Homebuilders keep up with trends in interior design? 

Marissa: Our team will review products annually, dropping products if they do not perform well or look outdated and add in fresh new products for buyers to choose from. 

Hannah: We are always evaluating which products are being used and which ones are on the way out. It’s always fun to bring in new up-to-date offerings that will help buyers create their dream home. 

Q: What advice would you give to buyers wanting to design a trendy kitchen with Riverside? 

Marissa: I highly recommend Pinterest. Buyers can save pictures by room for inspiration, and I feel that helps visualize the overall look they are after. Another helpful tool would be to visit our website and view the Gallery of Homes to see the selections we offer and take note of what stands out to you. 

Hannah: Looking through the Gallery of Homes on our website is an excellent starting point, but Pinterest and Houzz are always great sources of inspiration. 

Q: How do you help buyers showcase their personal style in their kitchen selections?

Marissa: Usually, the backsplash is where buyers can get creative and are able to let their personalities shine throughout the kitchen. 

Hannah: I always encourage buyers to consider their kitchen decor, and how their selections are creating the base for displaying some of their own personal touches. 

Looking forward to another year of impeccable design 

Marissa and Hannah, along with the rest of the hardworking team at Riverside Homebuilders, is excited for what’s in store for 2022. If moving into the home of your dreams is on your list of new year’s resolutions, Riverside can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Browse our inventory of quick move-in homes or find the floor plan you want to build in any of our new-construction communities. For more information or to get started on your journey to building your next home with hand-selected features and finishes, give us a call at (817) 601-6230 or contact us online.