Even as the idea of the kitchen as the hearth of the home remains constant, trends such as hypercustomized storage, low-maintenance materials and smart tech are changing building approaches. We spoke with husband-and-wife team Richard and Monica Ryder, owner of Clearcut Construction in Youngsville, North Carolina, about how they create customized kitchens that maximize functionality and innovation.

Why focus on kitchens?
Richard: We feel the kitchen is the most important room in the house; it sets the stage for the other spaces. There are more opportunities for design and for us to display our creativity in the kitchen while not having to be overwhelmed with all aspects of construction.

Top client requests?
Richard: Our clients are highly focused on functionality. Of course, they want aesthetics to stand out as well, but not at the expense of functionality. And they’re leaning toward simple, minimalistic shapes; there’s less of a tendency for farmhouse style. 

Monica: One thing we’ve done in many renovations that has made a dramatic impact is to raise the ceiling when we’re able.  

How do you home in on functionality?
Monica: It’s about getting into their daily lives and figuring out what they use the most, how many people work in the kitchen area and what proximity they need for things. Just knowing their habits is key.

Richard: We’re seeing a lot of highly functional lower cabinetry and no uppers. Large cabinetry pantry units are also making a comeback. They’re great ways to add tons of storage and also make a stunning statement when designed correctly. Then functionality inside cabinets with special hidden custom items, such as pot drawers, spice drawers and built-ins to house their knives. In one project we installed a hydraulic door lift to house an appliance cabinet.

How does budget affect clients’ desire for customization?
Monica: They want high-quality materials that are low maintenance, and they’re willing to pay for them. Quartz backsplashes are big now; we’ll be doing several of those this year. 

Richard: We’re surprised at what people are willing to spend on kitchens, even given the relative worth of their home. I have tried to utilize a combination of both box and custom cabinetry to meet clients’ desires in terms of time and budget. This allows custom features such as hoods, islands and specialty cabinets on a smaller scale. It also gives us the ability to add custom colors that aren’t available in the hybrid cabinet lines — we’re seeing more teal and green in kitchens.  

Is technology making an appearance?
Monica: A lot of that is dependent on the client. Clients that want tech either work in that area or they’re younger clients for whom tech is just their way of life. As in the case with any realm of life, technology is constantly changing with building and design. This includes innovative appliances, smart electrical devices, wireless systems and no-touch plumbing fixtures.

Any kitchen predictions for the next couple of years?
Richard: Darker cabinets and more modern styles. I also think that taupe is going to make a comeback.