Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, international luxury real estate brokerage network, confirms that Italy is the primary destination for international real estate investments. 

"When choosing a property, whether as a first or second residence or as an investment," explains Marina Rizzotto Yakovleva, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Palazzo Estate, "there are several elements that express luxury. From our vantage point we see that high-end clients, especially those from the USA, are looking for the perfect combination of Italian style and the latest trends. Whether it is on Lake Maggiore, a new destination of growing interest, or on the coast of Tuscany, more and more Americans are attracted to Italian-style luxury, but are looking for smart, high-class solutions'. 

A functional and aesthetically appealing kitchen 

The privileged environment of the home, even in the luxury sector, is still the kitchen that plays a fundamental role in shaping how the rest of the property is perceived. A luxury kitchen, however, is not only a purely functional place for food preparation, but, thanks to the use of refined and exclusive materials and the introduction of works of art and antiques, must also be aesthetically fascinating, where conviviality and style converge in a harmonious synergy.

In this regard, it is interesting to note that Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Palazzo Estate has identified five trends dedicated to the kitchen of luxury homes, commented by architect Luca Bortolotto.

An increasingly 'living' kitchen 

Luca Bortolotto, an architect collaborating with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, emphasised that the concept of the kitchen as a purely functional element, hidden from the rest of the house, is now a thing of the past. In this environment, which is now part of our daily life, we find more and more styles and ideas used for example in living rooms. 

"For an increasingly convivial space," adds Luca Bortolotto, "come finishes such as wallpaper, usually associated with rooms such as the living room. Very trendy is the use of surfaces with a three-dimensional effect using milled panels that can give a new design aesthetic. These are exclusive and innovative finishes capable of giving the room a refined yet modern and unique look.

"And speaking of materials," continues Bortolotto, "great space is given to natural materials such as wood and marble, or very resistant ones such as porcelain stoneware. A special mention goes to Fenix, a latest-generation compound that is also increasingly used in luxury kitchens. In addition to having multiple declinations at an aesthetic level, it is resistant to scratches, knocks, heat and rubbing, and regenerates thanks to its thermo-repairability: perfect for rediscovering the kitchen in everyday life, while maintaining high standards of quality and functionality".

The Five Kitchen Trends 

These are the five trends for kitchens in luxury homes: minimalism, ecological materials, personal style, cutting-edge technology, concealed ventilation systems. 

A key element in the design of luxury kitchens is undoubtedly minimalism: clean, linear lines, an expression of essential, timeless design. 

Kitchens in luxury residences embrace sustainability, adopting ecological materials and eco-friendly innovations. From furniture made of recycled wood to energy-efficient appliances: attention to aesthetics, but also a commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.

The kitchen as an expression of personal style. From appliances to tiles, each element represents a unique opportunity to express one's personality. 

The kitchen must also be technological: touch screen control centres are appreciated, with shopping list management, music and television streaming and synchronisation with other smart home devices. 

The open approach that characterises the contemporary kitchen extends to the integration of innovative solutions, such as concealed ventilation systems that guarantee the perfect union of form and function.