2012 trends include tall, solid-surface backsplashes, smarter storage, handy task stations and sheen instead of shine

 

Union Park Unit 2 Kitchen contemporary kitchen

This year, the driving force behind what we want in our kitchens is our need for calming spaces and improved functionality to reduce stress in our busy lives. All of these trends either make our kitchen-related tasks easier, or they aesthetically move the look just a little more in a minimal direction.

If you are getting ready to build or remodel — or even if you just want to freshen up your kitchen a bit — here are 9 features to consider for your dream kitchen.