The Up-And-Coming Kitchen Trend That's Making Range Hoods More Chic

Range hoods serve a highly functional purpose in a kitchen, whisking away cooking odors, smoke, and grease from the air. But even though we get them for practicality, that doesn't mean they can't also be attractive design features. In fact, hiding a stove range hood has become all the rage recently. One approach that has emerged as a chic way to upgrade a hood is to encase it in plaster, creating a smooth, seamless finish that turns an austere functional element into a sophisticated focal point. If you're looking to choose the right range hood for your home, this up-and-coming trend should definitely be on your radar. The rising popularity of the plaster hood is due to its sleek looks, design versatility, and easy maintenance. As Brittny Smith, interior designer and founder of Homesmith Design, told Livingetc, "In the world of architecture and design, it is a piece that will draw striking attention into your kitchen, much like an art masterpiece." 

Creating a plaster hood involves building a frame, often with plywood and drywall, that is then covered with multiple coats of plaster and sealed. For a modern look, a simple rectangular and angled shape is a good choice. If your style veers more traditional, you could opt for a frame that is curved or has more decorative elements. As a further upgrade, a popular pairing is a plaster hood with a range shelf, which sits over the cooktop to hold decor and cooking supplies. Another emerging trend is to create a plaster alcove that extends up from your countertop, with shelves built into the sides for extra storage. 

A major advantage of plaster hoods is their high level of customization in terms of color, texture, and decorative accents. While white tends to be a go-to pick, plaster comes in a wide variety of colors and can be tinted the shade of your choice. You also have the option to determine how much texture you want the plaster to have. To achieve a more polished finish, for instance, the plaster can be sanded down between coats and burnished before sealing. Alternatively, for a more rustic look or to add some visual interest, you may go with a rougher texture. To further customize the hood, an accent like crown molding, wood trim, or brass edging could also be added.

Another perk of plaster hoods is their low maintenance. If sealed properly, they shouldn't require frequent cleaning, particularly when they have a smoother finish. Plaster hoods are generally considered affordable, though the cost depends on the size, shape, and details. If you're doing the project yourself, it could be done for around $1,000 (or even less) by purchasing a range hood kit, which typically includes everything you need to construct the frame and, in some cases, the plaster supplies, vent, and drywall. If you're planning to give your kitchen an upgrade, consider starting with a plaster hood, as this is one kitchen detail you've been overlooking that can have a major impact.