Kitchen design is both an art and a science. While the overall layout and flow matter a great deal, it’s often the small details that take a kitchen from good to spectacular. From hidden storage to integrated lighting, smart material choices and more, it’s worth taking the time to think through all the elements that contribute to a high-functioning and beautiful kitchen.
Here are 11 designer secrets to work into your next kitchen remodel or new construction project, for a space you’ll love living in.
Choosing Materials and Finishes
The materials and finishes you select for counters, cabinets, flooring and other kitchen elements have a huge impact on the overall aesthetic. They also affect durability and ease of maintenance. Here are some designer tips for choosing kitchen materials.
Mix Natural Stone and Quartz for Counters
While granite countertops have been popular for years, many designers are now pairing natural stone on the island with quartz on the perimeter. This allows you to get the beauty of granite or marble on the focal point island, while enjoying the durability and low-maintenance of quartz on the rest.
Quartz is harder and less prone to stains and etching than granite. Going with a light-colored quartz or white marble on the perimeter also opens up the space visually, while the natural stone island grounds the room.
Choose Large Format Tile for Impact
Gone are the days of small 4-inch backsplashes! Make a statement by using large format subway, mosaic or decorative tiles. Oversized tiles create a sense of space and drama. Mix various shapes and patterns for extra interest.
Keep the lower cabinets sparse and clean-lined to allow the tile work to take center stage. Bold tile backsplashes work best in contemporary, modern and transitional kitchens.
Use Matte Finishes on Cabinets for Softness
While ultra-glossy cabinets were popular in the 80s and 90s, most designers now prefer a subtler aesthetic. Lighter, matte finishes make cabinets recede so counters, floors and backsplashes can be the focal point.
Soft-close matte cabinets also pair beautifully with brass hardware and fixtures for a classic but fresh look. Semi-gloss and satin finishes are good compromises, offering some reflection while still looking soft.
Choose Wide Plank Wood Flooring
Wooden floors instantly warm up a kitchen visually and literally underfoot. Wide plank floors (at least 5 inches wide) make a particularly dramatic style statement. Oak and hickory are naturally hardy woods that stand up well to water and stains. For a contemporary look, choose planks with longer lengths and less obvious graining.
Finish wood floors with an extra matte sealant to minimize slipping. Soapstone, limestone and certain porcelain tiles also mimic the look of wood for an easier-care alternative.
Use Brick Backsplashes and Accents
Exposed brick lends instant vintage character to a kitchen. While all brick walls can feel too heavy and dark, strategic use of brick backsplashes, islands and accent walls provides balance. Mixing the texture of brick with counters, cabinets and shelves in creamy painted wood or light marble creates depth.
Salvaged brick has the most character and patina. New thin brick tiles offer a lightweight and affordable alternative. For a modern twist, choose glossy white bricks against dark grout and cabinets.
Optimizing Storage and Organization
While aesthetics are key, functionality and organization make or break a kitchen. Maximize how you use every inch of space with these tips from designers for brilliant integrated storage and better organization.
Hide Waste/Recycle Bins in Cabinets or Drawers
Nothing ruins the look of a dreamy new kitchen like an unattractive waste bin. The best kitchen remodels totally conceal bins in cabinetry. Some designers place two bins side-by-side in a drawer, while others opt for a compartment with removable bins under a cabinet.
Soft-closing mechanisms keep drawers and doors from slamming. Position waste and recycling center near the primary prep zone, but not in your sightline from the sink. Undermount bins also maintain a streamlined look.
Maximize Corner Storage with Lazy Susans
Take advantage of often-wasted corner space by installing lazy susans. These spinning shelves provide easy access to pantry items, condiments, spices and more that traditionally get lost in deep corners. You can buy multi-tiered lazy susan systems or have them custom built into kitchen cabinetry.
Use corners intelligently for small appliances like stand mixers too. The spinning shelves mean you don’t have to move appliances in and out each time.
Include Vertical Dividers in Drawers
Deep drawers offer abundant storage space. Add vertical dividers to wide drawers to optimize organization of cooking/baking gear, serving ware, utensils, linens and other items. Look for drawer organizers made of birch, bamboo or lightweight metal. Custom dividers can be built in for a seamless look.
For shallow drawers, use horizontal dividers to sub-divide space. Clearly labeling drawers helps everyone put items back in the right place.
Install Hooks for Lids and Pans
Rather than stacking pots and lids in cabinets, install hooks specifically for them on walls or the interior of cabinet doors. Hooks allow you to see everything at a glance and reach what you need quickly. Position hooks near the stove for easy access while cooking.
Use S-hooks for hanging pans and pan lids. Varied lengths let you layer efficiently. Opt for sleek brass, matte black or stainless steel. Uncluttered cabinets better highlight their interior design.
Plan a Broom Closet or Pantry
Even in small kitchens, you can usually carve out a narrow broom closet for mops, brooms, vacuum and cleaning supplies. Add custom hooks, shelves and cubbies to hold essentials.
In larger kitchens, a walk-in pantry provides bountiful extra storage. Outfit with shelves, baskets, bins and other organizing tools. A well-ordered pantry cuts down on everyday kitchen clutter dramatically.
Choosing Kitchen Appliances
Today’s kitchen appliances aren’t just functional. They make a design statement. Follow these tips for choosing appliances that work best for your lifestyle and aesthetic.
Select Two Dishwashers Instead of a Double
Rather than one double wide dishwasher that requires opening two doors at once, opt for two separate dishwashers. This allows you to run one or both as needed. It also provides backup in case one unit ever needs repair.
Choose identical or uniform dishwashers and position symmetrically for the most seamless double dishwasher look. Run daily loads in one washer and reserve the other for big parties and holidays.
Include a Beverage Refrigerator
In addition to your primary refrigerator, a beverage-only fridge provides perfect easy access to chilled drinks. Opt for a tall, narrow unit that can tuck in next to existing refrigerators, by the breakfast bar, in the butler’s pantry or by the backdoor.
Glass door beverage coolers allow you to see contents at a glance. Some high-end models have dual climate zones for chilling white and sparkling wines at different temperatures.
Hide Small Appliances in Drawers and Cabinets
Maintain a clean, minimalist look by hiding small appliances like the toaster, blender and coffee maker in drawers and cabinets when not in use. Custom built-in compartments with electrical outlets and ventilation keep counters clutter-free.
For a compact kitchen, install an appliance garage: a cabinet with lift-up door that conceals appliances when closed. Retracting power cords and Lazy Susans streamline the process.
Under-Cabinet Microwaves are Space-Savers
Over-range microwaves require sacrificing valuable upper cabinet space. For a fully customized look, opt for integrated microwaves placed under the counter. Tucked cleanly away, they free up your backsplash and countertops.
Ensure under-cabinet microwaves have proper ventilation. Models are available in trim kits with cabinet matching finishes. Consider microwaves with bottom or side access for ergonomics.
Include Pot-Filler Stove Faucets
Bridging the gap between range and sink, pot filler faucets are hugely functional. They allow you to easily fill large pots with water while on the stove. Look for wall- or ceiling-mounted articulating faucets that provide maximum reach.
Pot fillers eliminate carrying heavy water-filled pots. Opt for minimalist designs in matte black, brass, chrome or stainless steel. Ensure adequate under-sink space for plumbing.
Creating Kitchen Zones
For both form and function, think about kitchen zones based on usage patterns and traffic flows. Here are some designer tricks for optimal kitchen layout.
Separate Cooking and Cleanup Areas
The work triangle between sink, stove and fridge is tried and true. But also consider separating cooking/prep zones from clean up zones for smoother workflows.
Place the main sink away from cooking surfaces. Add a small prep sink near the stove just for filling pots, washing produce and other mid-cooking cleanup.
Allow Counter Space on Both Sides of Range
Having ample counters left and right of the stovetop eases food prep and plating tasks. At a minimum allow 15-18 inches of counter next to cooktops and ranges. Islands and peninsulas help expand landing space.
Avoid squeezing ranges into corners or placing ovens immediately beside the stovetop. Leaving working room around ranges makes a huge daily difference.
Design Open Shelving Near Dining Areas
While upper cabinets maximize storage, sections of open shelving introduce versatility. Display serving dishes, glassware and cherished tableware. This allows you to easily access and change items daily or seasonally.
Locate open shelving near dining tables or banquettes to facilitate setting the table. Glass door upper cabinets also allow some visibility of dishware.
Include a Planning Desk/Area
Tuck a small desk, slim table or at least some drawer storage into the kitchen to hold mail, cookbooks, bills and homework. Kitchen desks allow you to jot shopping lists, meal plan or help kids with homework nearby while cooking.
Look for desks sized 30″ high x 18″-24″ deep. Top with marble or butcher block for extra chopping space. Position near a window or breakfast area.
Add a Charging Station
In the age of smartphones and tablets, a charging station has become a kitchen necessity. Look for USB charging cabinets or strips that mount under cabinets. Built-in electrical outlets placed discretely on counters, islands or backsplashes also help charge devices seamlessly.
Charging stations are particularly useful near kitchen tables, desks and command centers. Hide cords and cables neatly to maintain a sleek look.
Selecting Cabinetry and Hardware
Cabinetry impacts aesthetics as well as storage and functionality. Follow these expert tips for choosing and configuring cabinets.
Use Glass Fronts on Upper Cabinets
While solid fronts keep contents concealed, glass-front upper cabinets provide enticing peeks at dishware and collectibles. Glass fronts make the kitchen feel lighter and roomier overall. Choose frosted, etched or patterned glass for privacy.
Display your best glasses, mugs and dishes in glass front cabinets. Undercabinet lighting highlights contents beautifully at night.
Opt for Super-Functional Pull-Out Cabinets
Many base cabinets now come with pull-out shelves on full-extension drawer glides. These provide 100% access to everything in back corners. Upgrade to pull-out cabinetry near the fridge, pantry and prep sink areas.
Pull-outs in corner cabinets maximize tricky unused space. Consider pull-out cabinets for broom, trash can and appliance storage too. Soft-closing mechanisms prevent slamming.
Include Varied Drawer Sizes
When designing cabinetry, think about contents and optimize drawer sizes and placements accordingly. Customize with big, deep drawers for pots and pans near the stove. Incorporate shallower drawers for utensils and flatware.
Drawer dividers add flexibility – you can adjust sizing as needed. Consider regular and specialized cutlery drawers. Plan out storage early in the design process.
Choose Hidden Hinges for a Seamless Look
Exposed hinges interrupt the clean lines of minimalist cabinetry. For a seamless, contemporary look choose cabinets with internal hidden hinges. Many styles fully conceal hinges when doors are closed.
Soft-closing hidden hinges prevent slamming. Look for durable, self-aligning hinges vetted to withstand frequent use. They provide a smoother, upscale look compared to visible hardware.
Mix up Hardware Styles
Having all knobs or all pulls can feel monotonous. Mixing hardware styles adds personality. Consider chunky public-style pulls on perimeter cabinet doors combined with sleek bar pulls or knobs on drawers.
Alternate brushed metals, like matte black hardware on lower cabinets with brass pulls on uppers. Just keep the finishes cohesive. Unique hardware provides an easy style update down the road.
Lighting and Electrical Considerations
Proper kitchen lighting serves both form and critical function. Plan lighting early in the design process.
Include Lighting Under Upper Cabinets
Nothing beats undercabinet lighting for brightly illuminating countertops and tasks. Hardwired strip lighting provides the most seamless look built intocabinetry. Opt for warm LEDs in the 3000-4000K color range.
Dimmable lighting gives you control over brightness. Remote controlled or touch sensitive lights are handy. Position task lighting over prep zones, sinks and work triangles.
Use Different Color Temperature Bulbs
Varying the color temperature (warmth) of light bulbs creates dimension and visual interest. Incorporate cooler toned light over sinks and stoves for tasks. Use warmer bulbs in surrounding pendants and overhead fixtures to temper the overall look and feel.
Bulbs around 2500-3000K give off warmer hues, while 4000-6500K bulbs create crisper, cooler light. Smart bulbs let you tune lighting from an app. Include bulbs across the spectrum.
Include Under-Toe Kick Lighting
In addition to overhead and task lighting, toe-kick lighting hidden under cabinets provides soft illumination. It creates a subtle glow against cabinetry and walls. Use toe kick lighting to highlight architectural details and highlight open floor plans.
Toe kick lighting works well for defining kitchen zones in Studio apartments or open concept homes. Choose adjustable lights to control brightness and mood.
Plan Sconces Around Islands and Sinks
Wall-mounted swing arm sconces provide targeted lighting for extra illumination around islands and sinks. Look for adjustable sconces that allow directing light precisely where you need it most.
Sconces flanking a mirror also provide ideal grooming lighting. Use dimmable sconces on bedside walls in guest suites and master bedrooms too.
Include Electrical Outlets Every 4-6 Feet
Don’t underestimate the need for power in today’s kitchens. Plan ample electrical outlets, including some USB charging ports, every 4-6 feet around counters, islands and workstations.
Outlets near sinks and cleanup areas allow convenient plug in of dishwashers, garbage disposals and electric faucet accessories. Raise outlets at least 6 inches off the ground in ease of wiping.
Additional High-End Touches
If budget allows, a few upscale touches can really take your kitchen to the next level. Consider these designer upgrades:
- Built-in wine fridge, beverage center or coffee station
- Window seats, banquette seating or breakfast nooks
- High-end appliances like a pro-style range or refrigerator
- Custom built-in shelving for cookbooks and displays
- Water filtration systems for sinks and refrigerators
- Radiant floor heating for luxurious comfort
- Built-in speakers, sound systems or TV displays
- Touch faucets and hands-free technology
- Soft-close doors and drawers throughout
- Undercabinet LED strip lighting on dimmers
- Natural stone slab backsplashes
- Spacious walk-in pantry with organization systems
While not necessities, extras like these allow you to customize your kitchen for entertainment, convenience and luxury. Even including one or two can enhance your enjoyment and usage of the space.
Embrace Your Style
While staying current with trends, the most important thing is creating a kitchen that suits your personality, lifestyle and taste. Gain inspiration from designer looks and recommendations, but don’t be afraid to break the “rules” and make choices that work for you.
Your kitchen should ultimately showcase your style. With smart planning and design, it will beautifully reflect who you are. Pay attention to the details, while keeping the big picture goals in mind. Then enjoy cooking, baking, eating and living in a phenomenal new heart of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Designing a Kitchen:
What are some key kitchen design elements to consider?
Some key kitchen design elements to consider include layout, traffic flow, lighting, storage solutions, cabinetry, appliances, countertops, backsplashes, sinks, faucets, flooring, accessories, and finishes. Think about how you use your kitchen and maintain good workflow. Optimize and customize storage and organization. Choose lighting, materials and appliances that are functional, durable and easy to clean, while reflecting your personal style.
How do you maximize kitchen storage?
Maximize kitchen storage with solutions like lazy susans in corners, vertical dividers in drawers, variable drawer sizes, pull-out cabinets, customized shelving, pot racks and hooks, concealed waste/recycle bins, pantries, and appliance garages. Also consider open shelving to display items use often. Well-designed kitchens optimize every inch!
What are some kitchen design trends right now?
Some current popular kitchen design trends include two-tone and mix and match cabinets, open shelving, gold/brass finishes, industrial accents, statement lighting and backsplashes, automated appliances, outdoor kitchens, smart technology, and eco-friendly sustainable design. Unique tile, warm wood floors, and matte black hardware are also widely used.
How do you save money on a kitchen remodel?
Be strategic to save on your kitchen remodel. Keep the original footprint and plumbing lines if possible. Focus on replacing cabinet fronts,
