(NC)—Warm colours continue to be a strong trend in 2010 especially in the kitchen, where homeowners want a more relaxed, less formal approach.

“One of the top trends in 2010 for the kitchen is a more classic, formal style but with a soft touch,” says Alexandra Marshall, marketing director with premium kitchen sink and faucet manufacturer, Blanco Canada. “For colour, this means that classic colours like white and grey are popular for cabinetry and countertops, but in a warmtone. In 2010 we’ll see increased use of creamier whites, like vanilla or biscotti, and warmer greys that are a blend of both brown and grey,” she adds.

Looking at the newest paint colours shows the softer approach. Grey isn’t just grey, but “putty” while the selection of warm whites continues to grow. Quartz countertop manufacturers offer an increasingly wide range of colours with several new greys now available.”

Even kitchen sinks and faucets are now available in alternative finishes to the cold metal chrome, stainless steel or nickel options. This spring, Blanco will expand its line of Silgranit sinks, a durable granite composite available in seven natural colours. The largest expansion of models will be in their recently introduced new Biscotti shade, a warm buttery natural colour and in their grey shade called Silk. As well, the manufacturer has introduced matching coloured faucets for all their sink colours, including the new Biscotti.

Switching to coloured sinks and faucets can be a practical solution as well. “Our Silgranit sinks offer a warmer, but also more practical alternative to stainless steel,” notes Ms. Marshall. “Made of 80 percent natural stone and a special patented acrylic formulation unique to Blanco, Silgranit sinks are scratch-proof and highly heat and stain resistant. So even with these new pale, light shades you don’t have to worry about stains or other damage to the sink..”

With the new selection of countertop, paint, and sink and faucet colours, warming up the kitchen is easy. Instead of stark white or metal finishes, consider a pale grey or warm biscotti for any of these elements, and the result will be classic elegance with a softer touch.

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