Designing Tomorrow's Kitchens Today

Designing Tomorrow's Kitchens Today

The kitchen is both the heart and command center of most homes, making it one of the most important long-term investments a homeowner can make. It should be designed with form, function, and longevity in mind right from the start.

Today, I had the pleasure of joining a panel discussion at Design Chicago 2024 hosted by Poggenpohl and Aspire Design & Home at the stunning Poggenpohl Showroom inside Chicago's iconic Merchandise Mart. The panel included design heavyweights like Joan Craig (Craig & Company), Steve Kadlec (Kadlec Architecture & Design), and Leah Bolger (Leah Bolger Design), and was moderated by Jennifer Quail from Aspire Design & Home.

We touched on how much has changed in recent years. From the impact of the pandemic to the growing focus on sustainable design and wellness, kitchens today are evolving to meet new demands. Add an upcoming presidential election into the mix, and you’ve got consumers carefully watching the economy, which always impacts home buying, selling, and renovation projects. 

77 East Cedar Street. Available at $4.5m. Built By Wolff Design

Kitchen Design Trends for Buyers and Sellers

From a real estate perspective, kitchen expectations have shifted, though not always drastically. Buyers are more informed than ever, yet they often don’t fully grasp the scope or cost of creating their dream kitchen. Setting clear expectations on time, budget, and process is essential—especially in the luxury market, where 'luxury' doesn’t always mean 'expensive'. It's about educating clients so they can make the best decisions.

69 East Bellevue Street. Sold at $5.650M. Officine Gullo Design

Sustainability and Wellness

One of the biggest changes we’ve seen is the emphasis on sustainability and health. These are now regular talking points in kitchen design, and they significantly impact a home’s resale value. Buyers want spaces that not only look good but feel good to live in, with materials and design choices that support wellness.

The Open Floor Plan Revolution

The trend toward open floor plans has put kitchens in the spotlight like never before. With the kitchen now visible from multiple living spaces, it’s become a central focus in home design. The panel agreed that this trend is here to stay. Contemporary designs dominate, often featuring open layouts, multiple beverage centers, and specialized HVAC systems that cater to today’s sophisticated buyers.

310 South Michigan Avenue, 2502. Last listed at $4.625m. Christopher Peacock Design

Commercial Influence Meets Residential Design

Chicago’s renowned restaurant scene is making a bold impact on residential kitchen design, especially in the luxury market. Homeowners are increasingly drawn to the sleek, professional look of commercial kitchens, incorporating powerful cooktops, industrial-style ranges, and efficient layouts that blend style with serious functionality—without fully embracing the hard, utilitarian edge. The result is a sophisticated, semi-commercial feel that elevates the home kitchen. One standout trend discussed today is the expanded butler’s pantry, now frequently dubbed the “dirty kitchen,” where homeowners can handle meal prep and cleanup out of sight, keeping the main kitchen pristine for entertaining and everyday living.

1430 North Astor Street. Last Sold at $561K. Susan Friedman Properties Design

Where Tech and Design Meet

Technology has become a fundamental part of kitchen design. Buyers now expect seamless tech integration—whether it’s hidden smart appliances or tech-savvy lighting solutions. While some homeowners love to show off their gadgets, many prefer a cleaner, more discreet approach, where the tech is there but stays out of sight.

229 East Lake Shore Drive. Last Sold at $1.650m. Mick De Giulio Design

The Future of Kitchen Design

In-cabinet lighting, soft-close drawers, advanced refrigeration systems—these were once luxuries but are now the norm in high-end kitchens. As tech continues to evolve, we’ll see more customization and performance-focused appliances become standard. And don’t forget lighting—it’s never been more important, as it plays a huge role in both function and atmosphere.

When it comes to kitchen value and a home’s asking price, high-end kitchens can boost resale, but it’s not always a one-to-one return. Thoughtful design remains the best investment. As we look to the future, one thing is certain: kitchens will continue to be a space where luxury, function, and innovation meet. After all, it’s the room where we spend the most time—and that’s where true luxury lies.