Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1174518
OCTOBER 2019 | 37 Kitchens available to be cut-to-size in slabs up to 126 by 56 inches in size, it covers surfaces with less product – a great budget solution that is designed to stand up to the wear and tear of the everyday. Adjustments can also be made with ceramic tile tools, so it's super easy to assemble. Cosentino's new Dekton Stonika collection takes its inspiration from a half-dozen natural stones, but uses advanced technology to make its offerings even more convenient than the real thing. A hyperrealist design mimics the look of stone; the single-layer composition makes it highly resistant to thermal shock; and the integration of design in the sintering process avoids irregularities and breaks in the cutting process. K E E P ' E M S E P A R AT E D "The kitchen continues to be a focal point for family activity beyond just cooking, so architects continue to create open floor plans with large islands floating between the kitchen and living spaces," says Chmiel. "They recognize the importance of multi-purpose sur- faces for meal prep, eating, working, and family time." Everyone is different, of course, but some sort of combination of functionality and style is key. "The kitchen needs to work for you and look good while doing it," says MacDonald. While it's possible to deck out a kitchen with ump- teen gizmos and gadgets, a great layout is what sets a modern kitchen apart. "We try to go by the KISS method: keep it simple, stupid," laughs Primucci. That means functional placement of countertops and islands, accessible storage, and, if you're feeling fancy, a larder, coffee station, or bar tucked out of the way for easy access to your tools or ingredients without the countertop clutter. "We pocket them in, and it's great for entertaining," says Primucci. As always, storage remains king in the kitchen for 2020. "Customers are always looking for cabinets that provide increased storage, easy accessibility, and maximum appeal in terms of kitchen design – that hasn't changed very much over the past year," says Capone. "Especially in high-rises where space is at a premium, cabinetry needs to provide maximum storage and easy accessibility in very tight spaces." "Homeowners continue to look for a way to bal- ance their desire to host and entertain, while keeping the heart of their home clear of clutter," says Chmiel. "With this continued desire, we're seeing more kitchen spaces emerging in homes by way of a but- ler's pantry or a prep kitchen." These ancillary spaces are perfect for hardwork- ing laminate countertops that are easy to maintain and keep clean, though homeowners continue to demand that all of their surfaces perform well, while looking timeless over their lifespan. There's also a growing trend for countertop materials that have a life beyond the kitchen: repurposed materials are being used in more innovative and beautiful ways with products like Formica's Reclaimed Denim Fiber, Paper Terrazzo, and a new Kraft Paper series. C U T T I N G E D G E Technology doesn't stop at the appliances in a kitchen these days. Formica's Intentek Wireless Charging Surface (available for commercial projects) is lami- nate with the capability to charge any Qi-compatible device placed on top. It's a beautiful alternative to bulky cords, blending right into the rest of the countertop thanks to charging coils embedded right into the material. And when it comes to cabinet making, it's all about matching grains and bookmatching ends, as Cartier Kitchen is able to offer. "It's really impressing the industry," notes Capone. "The cost goes up but so does the look and appeal of the kitchen. It gives the kitchen a whole new exciting look that is so sleek and eye popping." A Formica's Intentek Wireless Charging Surface. FM37055.indd 1 9/4/19 12:07 PM