Transitional kitchen designs which combine elements from traditional and contemporary styles are the latest trend, an expert has said.Speaking to 27east.com, Scott Smith of Smith River Kitchens in the US, said that these hybrid designs had also extended to new, ultra-modern designs.He noted that in kitchen sink areas, backsplashes with traditional painted murals are gradually fading out of style while small, rectangular backsplashes sans pictures are shifting in.Meanwhile, fellow designer Peg Fruin told the news provider that kitchen cabinets in rustic woods remain popular and can be combined with more modern, ceramic white tiling.People are gravitating toward whats clean and fashionable, but still warm and cozy the kitchen continues to be the hub of the home, she said.Last month, design advice posted on News Canada claimed that homeowners should let the architectural structure of their property guide them when engaging in kitchen renovations.