Post-COVID Home Renovations: How the Pandemic Changed Our Kitchen Preferences

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably reshaped how we live, work, play, and, most importantly, how we view our homes. 

As lockdowns and restrictions forced everyone to stay indoors, homes have taken on multiple roles – from serving as workspaces and classrooms to recreation hubs. However, even with the COVID global health emergency over, this lifestyle shift left a lasting influence on home design preferences, especially in the kitchen. 

Home cooking became the norm during the pandemic, reinforcing the kitchen’s role as the heart of the home. With this, people are investing in redesigns to make the space more functional, comfortable, and, most importantly, safe and healthy.  

If you’re taking on a post-COVID home renovation project or are simply looking for the best countertops for your home, this blog is for you. The following sections delve into the notable kitchen design trends that emerged post-COVID, the influence of health and safety concerns on interior designs, and the leading countertop materials that are under the spotlight today. 

The Shift in Kitchen Preferences Post-COVID 

Kitchens in the pre-pandemic era were primarily places for meal preparations and, occasionally, social gatherings. However, as people spend more time at home post-COVID, these spaces are continuously undergoing a significant transformation. 

Here are some key trends that have become apparent in kitchen design transformations:  

The Need for Larger Storage Spaces and Wider Food Prep Surfaces 

As daily meal preparation became the norm, the demand for storage space and expansive countertops has increased.

More people stocked food and ingredients, so walk-in pantries and refurbished cabinetry have become essential in many households. Daily preparation of fresh spreads also created the need for wider workspaces and turned kitchens into warm communal areas. 

Functional Kitchens for Hosting Small Get-Togethers 

The pandemic put the days of large gatherings on hold for some time, making it difficult (and even impossible) for family and friends to gather in public places. With this, people turned to small get-togethers at home, making kitchens a key element in various gatherings. Kitchens need to be spacious and functional to accommodate cooking, serving, and social activities. 

The Shift from Kitchen Work Triangles to Flexible and Social Spaces 

The traditional kitchen work triangle, which emphasizes efficient movement between the stove, sink, and refrigerator, has given way to flexible and social kitchen spaces. Countertops have become multi-functional spaces that double as casual workstations for adults while they watch over their children. 

The Importance of Easy-to-Clean Surfaces

The recent global health crisis emphasized the need for easy-to-clean surfaces. This is evident in the increasing popularity of non-porous, bacteria-resistant countertops, which prove better for cleaning and protecting households from the health hazards of germ buildup. 

The Influence of Health and Safety Concerns on Kitchen Designs

Health and safety concerns have been pivotal in shaping kitchen designs in these post-COVID times. Materials like quartz and porcelain are gaining popularity as practical choices for kitchen countertops for several compelling reasons: 

Resistance to Bacteria and Easy Cleaning 

Non-porous materials are inherently resistant to bacterial growth. Quartz and porcelain do not provide breeding grounds for germs, mold, or mildew. This makes them an excellent option for households prioritizing food safety. 

Durability and Longevity 

While more people prioritize food safety more than ever, durability is another essential factor they consider when choosing countertop materials. Quartz and porcelain are not only hygienic but also incredibly durable, and they can withstand daily use without wearing away quickly. 

Peace of Mind 

Knowing your countertop doesn’t harbor hidden moisture or contaminants brings peace of mind at a time when hygiene is paramount. 

As you think about your kitchen’s design and the materials you want to incorporate, it’s best to keep these considerations in mind. Achieving the perfect balance between appearance, durability, ease of maintenance, and health and safety is key to a satisfying renovation. 

The Allure of Quartz Countertops 

Quartz countertops have gained immense popularity in recent years as they offer a winning combination of the following features:  

Aesthetics 

Quartz is an engineered stone that comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect design for their kitchen aesthetic. Whether you prefer a sleek and contemporary look or a more traditional style, a reliable Quartz countertop manufacturer can let you customize its appearance to match your home’s decor and suit your preferences. 

Durability 

Quartz countertops are exceptionally durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks, making them a perfect choice for busy kitchens. 

Hygienic and Antimicrobial Properties 

The non-porous nature of quartz allows it to resist bacterial growth, mold, and mildew, easily making it a hygienic and practical choice for food preparation areas. 

Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance 

Quartz countertops can be easily maintained with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth or sponge. Spills can be quickly wiped up without using unique methods or specific cleaning agents. There’s also no need to worry about sealing the countertop regularly. 

Porcelain Countertops: A Rising Star 

Porcelain countertops are an emerging favorite in kitchen design trends thanks to these unique features that set them apart: 

The Beauty of Natural Stone Mimicry 

Porcelain countertops are engineered using a mix of quartz, clay, and feldspar under extreme heat. This process creates surfaces that capture the elegance and natural beauty of natural marble or stone and stand up to demanding, high-volume use at the same time. 

Strength and Resilience Against Damage 

Porcelain is incredibly strong and resilient against damage and scratches. It also performs well under direct sunlight and won’t discolor over time, making it a perfect material for kitchen designs with plenty of natural light. 

Low Maintenance Costs

Homeowners can enjoy low maintenance expenses with porcelain countertops. Kitchen countertops made of porcelain are not susceptible to scratches and scrapes. They’re also impervious to stains and easy to clean. Finally, there’s no need for sealing and simple care with soap and warm water is enough to keep them looking their best. 

Sustainably Sourced Material

As a durable and low-maintenance countertop material, porcelain is an excellent choice for homes that want to support a healthier environment and the efficient use of material resources. 

Future Trends: What’s Next for Kitchen Designs? 

Looking ahead, kitchen designs are expected to evolve and change according to the needs and preferences of homeowners. The following key trends are poised to continue influencing the way homeowners renovate or upgrade their kitchens: 

The Preference for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials 

The emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly materials will likely continue as homeowners become more environmentally conscious in their daily activities. Materials like porcelain, in particular, may see increased use thanks to their environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. 

The Continued Emphasis on Health and Hygiene 

The pandemic has underscored the importance of health and hygiene in the home. Quartz and porcelain will remain in high demand as they provide impervious, easy-to-clean surfaces without sacrificing design and aesthetics. 

The Heart of Your Home Deserves the Best Materials 

With the recent global health emergency redefining our relationship with our homes and, by extension, our kitchens, they continue to evolve into multifunctional spaces catering to various needs. 

Along with this evolution, however, choosing the right countertop material becomes increasingly essential. Quartz countertops and porcelain countertops stand out as top contenders in the post-COVID era of kitchen renovations thanks to their durability, aesthetic versatility, and hygiene benefits. 

Whether you prioritize a modern look and feel, easy maintenance, or environmental sustainability, incorporating these materials into your reimagined kitchen is an excellent way to keep the heart of your home as warm and safe as it can be.

Curious to see what your kitchen would look like with quartz or porcelain countertops? Use this virtual kitchen visualizer to catch a glimpse of your design ideas.