For the home chef: Get inspired by these kitchen design ideas* and inspiration images. From practical islands to trendy countertops to beautiful art, the ideas are a’cookin’!
*For this article, we partnered with Modernize, a home improvement service. Check out the tips brought to you by their kitchen remodel pros throughout the list below.
1. Strategic Coloring
This kitchen is simple but doesn’t get lost thanks to strategic coloring. Black-paneled walls contrast against a white countertop and chairs – distressed to keep the vibe soft. Meanwhile, small wall art lines the sink area and wall and adds a touch of rustic style. Finally, a space-defining rug adds texture and separates ‘cooking area’ from ‘sitting room.’ Key takeaway: Sometimes, simpler is better. What little decoration there is (like the cake and tray stand along the counter) is kept to a minimum for a polished look.
2. Off-Kitchen Storage
An off-kitchen storage space, designed for meal-prepping, makes practical use of a counter/island set in a corner. True, the charming rustic chair and stool steal the show, but we have to give honorable mention to the spacious chef’s shelves under-table (shown here storing a rolling pin, mixing bowl, jar storage and tray accessories).
3. Kitchenette
The focal point of this kitchenette is undeniably the marble countertops. Clean white + a touch of subtle grey is trending (a quick search for #decor on Instagram is all the proof you’ll need) and grounds the row of white + black cabinetry along the back wall. Also note the matte black faucet, black-and-chrome appliances and black vinyl and silver metal stools, which provide a textural contrast against the marble.
— Tip from the Modernize Pros —
"The wall of floor-to-ceiling cabinets is a remarkable addition to this kitchen. If you’re considering a budget remodeling project, you can easily keep the same cabinet boxes, assuming they’re in good shape, and simply choose to replace or resurface the cabinet and drawer fronts. Replacing costs more but might be worth it if the cabinets are very old and you need new functionality; resurfacing can be an excellent budget-friendly option if your cabinet fronts are still in good shape." - Modernize
4. Stone Top
Another example of how marble fits perfectly into a kitchen setting: This floating island (with a built-in sink) boasts a beautiful stone top. We also love the highly-modern chrome refrigerator and stove, both of which are also built into the structural design to save space and create a cohesive feel. Last but not least, we’ve got the obligatory word art; though word art (or “message art”) is less in fashion now than it was a few years ago (decorators are favoring abstract art over it), this particular design gets away with fitting into a contemporary scheme thanks to its minimalism, small size and chic grey frame).
5. Minimalism
Who knew a refrigerator could be such a statement? Here, its sleek chrome finish pops out against a white-paneled pantry and balances out the stove on the left. At the forefront, a warm table-and-chairs setup runs parallel to the kitchen border, itself a practical counter space. Again, a clean look – with minimal clutter/decor.
6. Grey Granite
Ahh, the sweet, sweet look of grey granite in a modern kitchen. In this space, it grounds, creating mod-cool definition. It’s edgy, but not so much; a row of more traditional-looking fabric counter stools helps to ease off the sharpness. (Granite, by the way, is less expensive than marble but provides the same ‘glossy stone’ aesthetic – a perfect alternative for budget-seekers.)
— Tip from the Modernize Pros —
"Also notice that the sink, stovetop, and ovens are all strategically placed in this kitchen. When you’re planning a possible remodel, ask yourself: are there any areas where appliances will collide? For instance, can you open the oven door and the refrigerator at the same time? Also keep in mind the typical foot traffic in your kitchen. Will the island be a hindrance?" - Modernize
9. Open Floor Plan
Here, an open floor plan punctuated only by a trim breakfast bar made of marble (a motif in this article, to be sure!). There’s no getting around it, this is a small kitchen space, but it appears big for a number of reasons. There’s the modish refrigerator, inset against an all-white backsplash; the white-and-black seating; the ethereal pendants; and the loads of natural light – which is softened by a sheer blind.
12. Recessed Lighting
Recessed light fixtures create an enchanting glow, but even without them, we have a feeling this spacious, wood-lined kitchen would feel just as magical. Perhaps it’s the clean, wide scenic windows that are doing it for us. Or perhaps it’s the rustic stools and chairs. Or even the industrial-black metal frame of the hanging pendant. Whatever it is, we’re all on board!
— Tip from the Modernize Pros —
"In general, there are three types of kitchen lighting depending on style and décor: recessed, under-cabinet lighting, and ceiling fixtures. Incorporating all three can give you the best experience in the kitchen. Ceiling fixtures often take the form of pendant lighting, which lowers the lighting center just a bit and better illuminates the room. Under-cabinet lighting should be bright enough for serious cooking tasks, and recessed lighting can provide quite handsome ambient light." - Modernize
13. Warm Palette
This warm kitchen looks the perfect spot for a cup of hot cocoa on a rainy day. Deep brown cabinets, a red and brown backsplash and low lighting all play no small part, each bringing warmth, pattern and glow, respectively. Also noteworthy is the plant centerpiece with its subtle green and purple; a reminder to us all that color doesn’t have to come from some fancy art piece or paint job but rather something as simple as a succulent.
— Tip from the Modernize Pros —
"However, if you are considering painting your kitchen, don’t forget the ceiling! Look up and you’ll likely see some discoloration from moisture, smoke and the like. Feeling adventurous? A contrasting color can create some visual fun in the space." - Modernize
14. Storage Wall
Black in the kitchen is something you don’t see every day, but this design pulls it off without a hitch. A stained wood storage wall (broken apart by the glossy silver appliances) contains a subtle red undertone, the perfect contrast against the warm light brown-tinted granite countertops and floors. Of course, the stools deserve a mention here, too: tufted upholstery in cool grey is as chic of a statement as any!
15. Cozy Chairs
Another warm gem, this cabin-y kitchen space feels just the right amount of ‘lived-in.’ The warm brown chairs bring out the dark cabinetry, but we deem it’s the “little things” – like the hanging plates in the background – that create the cozy aesthetic. The ever-so-small cross figurine floating in the window – blink and you’ll miss it! – also brings a hint of sentimentality, in a good way, and instantly adds a personalized touch.
34. Coastal
When a spontaneous Mediterranean getaway isn’t always just a plane ticket away, this blue and white kitchen will be there for you. This coastal situation features bright white appliances – including microwave, stove, dishwasher and windows – and classic blue cabinets, under-sink storage and crown molding. Pale yellow drapes accentuate with a warmer splash, and spindle chairs focalize. (If you’re unsure about decorating with houseplants, this kitchen should dispel any doubts; it’s always a good idea.)
— Tip from the Modernize Pros —
"In addition, the outlets are well-placed in this kitchen. If you’re considering a remodeling project, don’t forget to think through exactly where you’ll need new outlets. Make sure your kitchen can handle plenty of current from high-load products like a powerful blender and keep the outlets handy – one every three linear feet is recommended." - Modernize
Kitchen Inspiration
Brown Natural Wood Granite Top 3 Tier 45" Kitchen Island | Wheels | Storage | Drawers | Shelves
$795Multi 3 Inch Wood Lacquer Shell Tray
$72Set Of 3 Aged White Terracotta Canisters
$65Silver 23 Inch Aluminum Rectangle Metal Utensil Set Of 3 | Wall
$56Manda White/Espresso Wood 60"Rectangular Breakfast Nook With Side + Corner Bench Set For 8
$1,59575" Brown Wood Rectangular Extension Dining Table
$550Sonoma Natural Dining Chair Set Of 2
$310Set Of 2 Blue Tile And Wood Trays
$7519X20 Natural Woven Chandelier
$217Red 9 Inch Metal Fruit Tray Stand Decor
$60White 9 Inch Metal Cake Stand
$5035 Inch Metal + Wood Fork And Spoon 2Pc Wall Decor
$9915X15 White Shade Round Pendant
$88Picture-Happiness Is A Cup Of Coffee 28X28
$154Read the Latest
Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.