These days when short video clips are king on social media, it seems everyone is a chef sharing cooking tips and culinary expertise on TikTok or YouTube. So, it helps having a nice, clean and orderly kitchen as the background.

But the kitchen isn’t just about getting the Instagram double tap, it’s the beating heart of the home, the place where life happens. So, a well-designed, functional and stylish kitchen is always paramount, whether one cooks or not.

“The kitchen should feel effortless for cooking, dining, and gathering, while also showcasing a beautiful and timeless design,” says Kristina Plank, Marketing Manager at Excel Homes. “A well-planned layout ensures the space flows seamlessly, with optimal storage and plenty of natural light.”

McKenzie Campbell, Interior Designer at Coventry Homes says the best advice she can give their buyers is to invest in the kitchen upfront. “The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it’s not easy to make major changes after it’s been built. So, focus on getting the elements that matter most to you right from the start. You can always save money on smaller details that are easier to change or add later, but prioritize things like layout, integrated features, storage, and finishes that will make the space functional and timeless.”

Combining style and function

A big part of the new homebuyers’ journey is picking a home with the kitchen that most fits their lifestyle. Showhomes are key in giving buyers a sense of what’s available out there, but advice from experts on current style trends, innovations, and materials is always vital.

“At Coventry Homes, we always emphasize functionality, storage, and style,” Campbell says. “Open layouts with large islands, ample cabinetry, and integrated dining spaces are key to creating a kitchen that’s both beautiful and practical. Creating a functional yet aesthetically pleasing workspace.”

She does see new trends in custom built hood fans, quartz backsplashes, island details such as decorative panels, detailed posts and waterfall edges. “We also are seeing people mix more materials together within the kitchen like different coloured countertops, different backsplash materials or doing a bold accent colour in the butler’s pantry off the kitchen.”

While Plank says recent trends Excel is seeing include extended islands with seating, walk-through pantries that connect directly to the mudroom and garage for easy grocery unloading, and spice kitchens perfect for cooking aromatic dishes.

“Appliance upgrades such as built-in wall ovens, gas cooktops, and smart home technology are also becoming more popular. Modern finishes such as quartz countertops, full-height backsplashes, and black or gold hardware add a touch of sophistication.”

Upgraded style

The standard kitchens that both Coventry Homes and Excel already include all the essentials and designed with functionality and convenience in mind. But they are flexible enough and easy to upgrade should the buyer choose.

Among the most requested kitchen upgrades Coventry is seeing are custom tile, full-height upper cabinetry, and built-in appliances are popular upgrades. “Along with an ample amount of pot and pan drawers and garbage + waste pullouts. We are also seeing customers upgrade to custom painted cabinets to show case bold warm accent colours and are starting to venture away from an all-white kitchen.”

Plank says the kitchen might be the one place buyers should include in their upgrade plans, because they are harder to change later.

“We often suggest investing in timeless features like cabinetry and countertops since these create the foundation of the kitchen and are harder to change later, while smaller details can be updated over time,” Plank says.

Popular upgrades at Excel include cabinetry, extended islands, under-cabinet lighting, and gourmet appliance packages.

Inspired choices

Showhomes are the best way to get inspired for your own home, they present the aspirational ideas that homeowners can adapt for their own style. Kitchens can have the biggest impact on the look of the home, so pay attention to the details they include.

The Rosewood show home in The Orchards exemplifies Excel’s signature kitchen style, Plank says.

“It’s open-concept layout flows effortlessly, blending modern design with everyday functionality. The kitchen features an expansive waterfall island with seating for four, sleek two-toned cabinetry, ample storage, and generous counter space. Under-cabinet lighting, built-in smart appliances, and a matching quartz countertop and backsplash create a seamless, upscale look.”

Additional touches like upgraded island light fixtures, a modern black faucet and a pot filler elevate the space even further. A custom wood hood fan and dedicated coffee station add warmth and convenience, making this kitchen both beautiful and practical. Find out more at excelhomes.ca.

While at Coventry Homes, Campbell says their Kail showhome in Crystallina Nera is a showstopper, featuring a functional layout paired with a warm inviting colour palette.

“The kitchen show cases elegant detail within the island with a featured post, a furniture base moulding and decorative panels. This is paired with a custom built in hood fan along with the mixing of materials utilizing a quartz and hammered tiled backsplash within the same space. We’ve also mixed the hardware styles with simplistic knobs and more detailed handles all in the soft champagne bronze finish.” For more information, go to coventryhomes.ca.