2014 Kitchen Design Guide

Look for Design Galleria’s showroom remodel to be completed this month, with two current kitchen vignettes being replaced, full cabinetry and appliance makeovers and a number of new products and lines. Also of note: Sub-Zero and Wolf New Generation Collection with a focus on integration, lime-washed finishes, quartzite countertops, new styles of LED lighting, and metal finishes, including antique gold, laser jet mosaic backsplashes and the new Design Galleria Closet Cabinetry Collection. 351 Peachtree Hills Ave., Suite 234, Atlanta 30305. (404) 261-0111; designgalleria.net

With SwitchModern’s move from Howell Mill to 14th Street comes a new 25,000-square-foot showroom that dramatically expands the showroom’s Poliform display. Look for three full kitchens showcasing steel and stone, lacquer and glass, and Corian and wood in a variety of ways. Owners Roy Otwell and Doug Henderson say one big trend to watch for includes recessed handles that create smoother surfaces. Walnut, spessart oak (with honey-colored graining) and other woods add a richness and warmth. Look for burners seamlessly blending into the countertops, which is new in the U.S. for Poliform. 670 14th St., Atlanta 30318. (404) 605-0196; switchmodern.com.

Finishes are moving away from oil-rubbed and venetian bronze and even brushed nickel, says Ferguson’s showroom showroom manager Blane Case. Instead, 2014 will see more polished finishes for faucets, such as polished chrome or polished nickel, and touch or sensor faucets. White cabinets and tiles are joining stainless steel appliances in creating a cohesive, clean look. 764 Miami Circle, Suite 126, Atlanta 30324. (404) 495-9919; ferguson.com.

In 2013, Poggenpohl Atlanta completed its showroom renovation with all new displays designed by showroom manager and lead designer John Coulter. This year, look for the latest +Artesio kitchen line featuring glass cabinet fronts and LED lighting. The work of three of Atlanta’s interior designers-Bill Musso, Kerry Howard and Michel Boyd-is on display in the “Prop My Poggenpohl Showroom” program. Terminus 100, 3280 Peachtree Rd N.E., Suite 125, Atlanta 30305. (404) 816-7275; poggenpohl.com.

No longer relegated to only children’s bathrooms, color is emerging in mainstream tile use. And at Specialty Tile, you’ll find U-Color available in four field tile colors and 60 deco colors that can be mixed and matched to create rug-like effects. Also of note: Terracotta flooring (Viva Acustico’s line) has a contemporary twist with larger formats, straight edges and a concrete look blended in. Wood tiles features bolder patterns and longer shapes (48-inch length is the new normal) from Provenza In-Essence, Colli WOW and 14 Ora Italiana’s uonuon. Ovals, hexagons and abstract water-jet shapes also add flair to these contemporary designs. 1275-D Oakbrook Dr., Norcross 30093; (770) 246-9224; specialtytile.com.

Marble seems to be having its moment, with the look of natural marble and exotic stones becoming more prominent in modern kitchens, says Scott Bonds, Cantoni’s kitchen design director. Look for more bold color and texture as well as matte lacquer in contrast to high-gloss lacquers. The Menu Collection, designed by Paola Navone for Bontempi Cucine, is available in Acacia (a textured dark wood with caramel hues). The Mood Collection, designed by Lino Codato for Bontempi Cucine, also has new lacquers and wood finishes. The Materia Collection, designed by Marco Brogiotti for Bontempi Cucine, displays the Smart finish, which mimics brushed pine. 1011 Monroe Dr. N.E., Atlanta 30306. (404) 881-8111; cantoni.com.