Is it possible to master two kitchen trends with only one design feature? In Eva Longoria's case, it is. We may have already drawn attention to the actress's brown cabinets – showcasing a hue that designers have forecast as a key trend for 2024 – but colors aside, the cabinet's handles (or, more specifically, their lack of handles) pay homage to yet another design movement.
Handle-less cabinets, exactly like those seen in Longoria's space, are no new phenomenon, but they are becoming increasingly sought-after among those who want to create the ultimate minimalist kitchen look – something that's surging among designers and celebrities alike. While our chosen kitchen cabinet colors (and finishes) have a significant impact on the overall look, our handle choices are more powerful than we might expect – and handle-less alternatives are consistently seen as the best option.
'One of the biggest trends we have seen this year is pairing different styles and finishes of cabinetry in one design. Handleless cabinetry is perfect for this trend as the streamlined effect removes extra visual stimulus, adding to the impact of contrasting colors and keeping the focus on the cabinetry itself rather than leading to a cluttered and overwhelming design,' comments Dawn Filkins, Head of Creative at Smile Kitchens.
When designing a minimalist kitchen, it may feel natural to turn to a subtle kitchen cabinet color, such as white or cream, to allow the space to feel bright and never risk looking overwhelmed. However, as Filkins explains, opting for a handleless design allows us to experiment with moodier hues without sacrificing the minimalist aesthetic.
'Handleless design and open-plan living go hand in hand, creating the perfect opportunity to play with darker colors. The light and airy effect of an open-plan design will lift and complement the drama of darker cabinetry, furniture, and accessories,' Filkins explains. Longoria has chosen a muted brown tone, but with a lack of handles and the right lighting, we can go even darker.
'Utilize effective lighting in these areas to enhance the impact even further. Incorporating ambient lighting is a great way to create an atmosphere in the room and ensures that your space feels sociable and warm even with deeper cabinetry,' Filkins says.
Lastly, while space is likely not a problem in Longoria's home, Filkins, explains that handleless cabinets are perfect for small kitchens where every inch is at a premium.
'Eliminating the wasted inches of handle space, [this option] is a great option for smaller kitchens. No longer will homeowners have to squeeze past awkward drawer knobs or worry about bumping against handles. [It] also gives you the flexibility to bespoke each cabinet space to your personal storage needs.'
Cabinets aside, we can follow Longoria's lead with a similar cocktail making set – perfect for hosting friends both in and outside the kitchen.
