Introduction
A tailored kitchen design with clean, modern elements like white cabinetry and wood accents can create a timeless and elegant space. This week’s featured kitchen epitomizes this aesthetic with its harmonious blend of crisp white painted cabinetry, warm wood countertops and backsplash tile, and sleek stainless steel appliances. Strategic use of materials and thoughtful details give this kitchen tailored refinement.
Read on to learn more about achieving this refined and contemporary kitchen style that still feels inviting. We’ll explore the key design choices that make this space feel cohesive yet unique, from cabinetry to surfaces to decorative elements. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or just looking for inspiration, the ideas and tips that follow will help you create your own tailored kitchen oasis.
Selecting Cabinetry for a Refined Look
The cabinetry plays a starring role in defining the tailored style of this kitchen. The clean, streamlined Shaker-style cabinet fronts painted in bright white make the space feel crisp and contemporary. Consider the following factors when selecting cabinetry for your own refined kitchen design:
Opt for Painted Cabinetry
Painted cabinets, especially in a crisp white or very light gray, lend a streamlined and refined look. The solid color creates a cohesive appearance. Painting existing cabinetry is often more budget-friendly than a full cabinet replacement.
Choose a Simple Door Style
Shaker, slab, or other simple flat panel door styles feel refined and fuss-free. They allow the crisp paint color to take center stage. More ornate cabinet doors compete visually and feel less modern.
Include Some Glass Front Cabinets
Glass front wall cabinets or a glass front on upper cabinets above the sink provide beautiful display space in an understated way. The transparent glass fronts keep the look light and airy.
Incorporate Drawers and Pull-Outs
Making use of drawers and pull-out shelves, even in base cabinets, maximizes storage space while retaining the tailored aesthetic. The clean lines remain, but functionality improves.
Consider Handleless Designs
Eliminating knobs and pulls keeps the cabinetry looking seamless and contemporary. For easy access, opt for grooves, finger pulls, or touch latches.
Countertop and Backsplash Options for Contrast
While the white cabinetry establishes the prevailing look of this kitchen, the countertops and backsplash provide appealing contrast with their wood and tile materials. The multi-textured surfaces add warmth and keep the space feeling inviting and livable.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz surfaces can convincingly mimic natural stone at a lower price point while offering added durability. A white quartz island countertop would seamlessly match the cabinetry, but the wood-inspired finish opts for contrast.
Butcher Block Countertops
Genuine wood countertops like butcher block bring organic texture and promote a cozy cottage feel. Finishes like a light whitewash treatment maintain the warmth while still feeling airy.
Subway Tile Backsplash
The classic subway tile backsplash connects to the tailored style, with its simple rectangular shape installed in a stacked grid pattern. White tiles keep it light and bright.
Wood Backsplash
Real or faux wood backsplash tile introduces an earthy element and dimensional allure. Blond wood selections maintain the clean and airy vibe. Mix it with white tiles for a more dynamic look.
Thoughtful Finishes Tie the Design Together
Beyond the major material selections, a variety of subtle yet impactful design choices unite this kitchen’s tailored style. Carefully chosen finishes and thoughtful use of decor ensure design cohesion.
Stainless Steel Appliances
Sleek stainless steel appliances fit seamlessly into the scheme with their neutral metallic finish and streamlined silhouette. They fade into the background rather than demanding attention.
Light Fixtures for Task and Ambient Light
Thoughtfully chosen lighting fixtures illuminate the kitchen beautifully without detracting from the tailored vibe. Pendants for task lighting and recessed LEDs for ambient fill provide optimal combination.
Hardware in Satin Nickel or Black
Simple, modern hardware in finishes like brushed satin nickel or matte black perfectly complement the aesthetic. Spotlight hardware through cohesive selections and minimal use.
Wood Cutting Boards
Wood cutting boards made of oak or walnut make a handsome accent on the countertops. They also protect the surfaces while bringing in a warm natural material.
Greenery for Pops of Color
Simple sprigs of fresh herbs or small potted plants on windowsills or open shelves inject living color and texture without disrupting the pared-back style.
Q&A About Creating This Look
What paint color works best for a light and airy look?
Stick with bright or clean whites to keep the space feeling ethereal. Benjamin Moore Simply White or similar pale hues promote the light atmosphere.
What countertop materials pair well with white cabinetry?
White or light-colored quartz, white Carrara-style marble, butcher block, and light-stained wood all complement white cabinets nicely. Dark granite can feel too heavy.
Should backsplashes match countertops?
Not necessarily. Contrasting materials can make the design more dynamic. For example, pair white quartz counters with a stone, ceramic tile, or wood backsplash. Coordinate colors.
What flooring options work with this aesthetic?
Light wood plank flooring maintains the warmth. Large-scale tile in white, light gray, or very subdued patterns also suits the pared-back style. High-contrast patterns can compete.
How do you incorporate color?
Use removable accents like dishes, appliances, linens, and art. Bold cabinet paint, upholstery, or tile for the backsplash or floor provide bolder pops of color.
Achieving This Tailored Kitchen Style
Creating a kitchen with this tailored, transitional aesthetic requires careful coordination of elements. Follow these general tips for achieving a similar refined yet inviting look in your own space:
- Stick with a simple, limited color palette. Too many finishes begin to feel chaotic.
- Balance sleek and streamlined elements like cabinetry and metals with some warmth from wood accents.
- Don’t overcrowd the space. Sparse accessorizing allows the elegant bones to shine.
- Choose some transitional style lighting, furniture and hardware to straddle the line between modern and traditional.
- Include timeless subway tile, Shaker cabinets, quartz counters and stainless appliances for enduring and cohesive style.
- Splurge on some key statement pieces like striking pendants, a luxurious kitchen faucet or a showstopping range hood.
With its harmonious blend of crisp, bright finishes and warm wooden accents, this gorgeously tailored kitchen strikes that perfect balance between sleek and inviting. Use the ideas behind this light-filled space to inspire your own kitchen refresh or remodel. Pay attention to everything from cabinetry details to hardware finishes and you too can craft a kitchen that feels custom-tailored to suit your refined style.
The Impact of Kitchen Design on Home Value and Sale Price
Beyond just looking beautiful, a thoughtfully designed kitchen can have major impact when it comes time to sell your home. Kitchen updates and remodeling projects are considered one of the most valuable investments for homeowners looking to increase resale value.
Buyers pay close attention to the kitchen when house hunting. A kitchen that looks dated, drab, or poorly laid out can deter buyers or prompt lower offers. On the flipside, a kitchen that impresses with pleasing aesthetics, layout and amenities can help attract buyers and justify a higher home sale price.
Here are some of the top ways that kitchen design choices affect home value:
Cabinetry – Well-constructed cabinets in good condition, with attractive finish and hardware, increase appeal. Dated cabinets mar the look.
Countertops – Updated countertop materials like quartz and granite, chosen for durability and style, are preferable to worn laminate.
Appliances – Stainless steel or coordinating appliances should be in good working order. Replacements may be needed.
Flooring – Hardwood floors or quality tile increase buyer appeal. Worn vinyl or carpeting detracts.
Paint & Lighting – Fresh paint and updated lighting make the kitchen feel bright and spacious. Dark or yellowed paint and dingy lighting are turnoffs.
Layout – A logical and efficient workflow, along with adequate space and storage, impacts livability. Poor layouts reduce function.
Curb Appeal – Kitchens visible from the front entrance should offer welcoming appeal through design, organization and cleanliness.
Overall Condition – Kitchens should appear fresh, clean and undamaged, with no major repairs needed and all features operational.
Renovating Your Kitchen on a Budget
Given the significant impact of kitchen design on a home’s resale value, renovations and updates to this space often provide a stellar return on investment. However, major kitchen overhauls also come with hefty price tags, sometimes $50,000 or more. Savvy homeowners looking to boost their home value through kitchen updates should explore more budget-friendly ways to improve the heart of the home. Consider these cost-conscious ideas for remixing your kitchen on a budget:
Refresh with Paint
A fresh coat of white or on-trend color on the cabinets, walls and trim can work wonders for lifting the look of a tired kitchen. Painting costs a fraction of cabinet replacement. Consider replacing just doors and drawer fronts if cabinet boxes are sound.
Update Countertops
Replacing worn laminate countertops with stone, quartz or solid surface materials like Corian can modernize the space affordably, as can adding butcher block atop existing surfaces.
Swap Out Hardware
New knobs and handles provide big impact for minimal cash outlay. Satin nickel and matte black finishes feel fresh and contemporary.
Stage for Sale
Thorough cleaning, decluttering, styling with vases and cookbooks, and moving small appliances off countertops elevates the kitchen’s look instantly.
Install New Fixtures
Savvy lighting choices like pendants and undercabinet lighting paired with fresh plumbing fixtures lend a updated feel with minimal spends.
Add DIY Backsplash
Self-adhesive tile, beadboard, or removable wallpaper backsplashes from home stores transform the space affordably.
Upgrade Entry Points
A vivid front door and refreshed entry hardscaping signal renovations and boost curb appeal for small spend.
With careful editing and a combination of cosmetic and minor upgrades in key areas, you can update your kitchen’s aesthetic, functionality and home value boost without breaking the bank. Consult real estate agents and contractors for the renovations with optimal ROI in your market when planning your budget-friendly kitchen spruce-up strategy.
Common Buyer Turnoffs to Avoid in Kitchen Design
Certain characteristics and flaws in kitchen design get cited over and over by real estate agents as being detrimental when selling a home. Being aware of these common kitchen turnoffs can help homeowners either avoid them in a kitchen remodel or remedy them before listing their home for sale.
Watch out for these top buyer turnoffs:
- Outdated appliances – chipped or vintage appliances suggest maintenance issues down the road. Stainless steel models in good repair are ideal.
- Insufficient lighting – Dim kitchens deter buyers. Ensure ample natural light and well-placed task lighting.
- Limited storage – Lack of cabinet, drawer and pantry storage conveys lack of functionality. Maximize every inch.
- Chipped countertops – Small damages suggest materials are wearing. Repair or replace flawed surfaces. Quartz is preferable.
- Missing backsplash – Protect walls and boost aesthetics by adding a backsplash if missing. Subway tile is classic.
- Worn flooring – Look for warped areas, staining or damage. Refinish floors or replace if needed.
- Bad layout – Poor workflow, narrow walkways and remote appliances negatively impact livability.
- Dark finishes – All-dark cabinetry and surfaces feel gloomy. Introduce some light and bright elements.
- Visible plumbing or ventilation – Exposed pipes, awkward ducting and dated range hoods detract. Conceal or upgrade.
- Lingering odors – Kitchens should smell fresh and clean. Deal with any pet, smoke or mold smells before listing.
Top Special Features Buyers Love
Going beyond the essentials of appliances, storage and surfaces, today’s buyers look for extras that increase a kitchen’s visual appeal and functionality. Special touches like these help kitchens stand out:
Drink Stations
Built-in beverage centers with sinks, glassware storage, wine fridges and even coffee machines are highly desired.
Smart Technology
Home automation features like smart lighting controls, voice-activated appliances and app-controlled fridge cams impress tech-savvy buyers.
Custom Storage
Clever built-ins for spice storage, dish organization, and kitchen tool concealment maximize usable space.
Charging Stations
Integrated docking stations, USB ports or outlets in the kitchen island or countertops cater to mobile device needs.
Specialty Sinks
Unique options like apron-front farmhouse sinks, industrial copper sinks or sleek ceramic undermount sinks upgrade the room’s style.
Desk Areas
Built-in or freestanding workstations create welcome spaces for homework or cooking tasks.
Recycling Centers
Dedicated recycling storage fits eco-conscious lifestyles and cuts down clutter.
Pet Feeding Stations
Built-in bowls, under-cabinet containment and designated pet zones please buyers with animals.
Upgraded Ventilation
Pro-style range hoods, integrated ductwork and quiet fans keep air fresh.
Designing a Pet-Friendly Kitchen
With so many homeowners owning pets, designing a kitchen that accounts for critters’ needs has become a sought-after feature for buyers. From built-ins to finishes, there are many subtle yet effective ways to create a space that caters to pets and owners alike.
For containing messes, opt for non-porous countertop materials like quartz or solid surface that resist staining and won’t absorb smells. Water-resistant luxury vinyl flooring stands up to spills and accidents better than natural wood or porous tile.
Strategically placed food and water bowls keep pets fed while avoiding foot traffic collisions. Built-in nooks with bowls and mats provide dedicated dining areas. For smaller pets, look for ways to elevate food stations closer to eye level.
Provide space for pet crates or containment during cooking time to keep companions safe and out from underfoot. Crate storage near a pet feeding zone keeps necessary items organized and accessible.
For multi-pet homes, incorporate multiple access points to food, water and waste areas so pets don’t feel trapped or guarded. Plan for humans, pets and appliances to circulate comfortably with ample clearance.
Simple add-ons like a pull-out pet bath station, built in leash hooks near entries or a cabinet just for medicines and supplies integrate pets seamlessly into kitchen life. When it comes to finishes, maintenance and safety, planning for pets from the start makes home life more harmonious.
Achieving Storage Solutions That Impress Buyers
One of the top complaints from homeowners about their existing kitchens is lack of storage space. And one of the most impressive features to home buyers is abundant and well-conceived storage. Clever solutions that maximize every inch of real estate are key in kitchen design.
For cabinet storage, include pull-out shelves, rollout trays, tiered drawers and full-extension glides for easy access. Swing-out cabinets, blind corner access and appliance garages optimize corner space. For lesser used items, opt for upper cabinets that reach to the ceiling.
Pull-out, built-in pantry cabinets should be sized generously and located for convenient access near cooking zones and refrigerators. Optimizing base cabinet space with storage inserts, racks, dividers and other inserts tailors the storage to what you need.
Open shelving doubles as display space and storage while eliminating the need for upper cabinets. Multi-use islands with lower cabinet access and seating maximize footprint.
Other smart storage solutions include under stair nooks for lesser used equipment, custom built-ins around windows and other dead spaces, designated knife drawers or strips, and pull-out cutting board features. Don’t underestimate the power of well-designed, ample kitchen storage for dazzling buyers.
Achieving a Minimalist Kitchen Design
For homeowners seeking a clean, uncluttered aesthetic, the principles of minimalist design provide guidance for creating simpler, more serene kitchen spaces. Hallmarks of minimalist kitchens include:
- Limited color palette – typically three colors or less
- Restrained ornamentation – no intricate moldings
- Hidden storage – for clutter-free surfaces
- Multifunctional furniture – islands, cabinetry
- Quality over quantity of belongings
- Neutral, natural color tones and materials
- Focus on daylight and task lighting over accent lighting
- Clean lines and simple geometric shapes
- Lack of wall hangings and accessories
- Seamless flow between adjacent spaces
- Purposeful placement of essentials only
Editing down to just the essentials takes restraint, but clearing away visual noise results in a soothing, harmonious aesthetic. Carefully concealing necessities keeps surfaces clear while accessibility remains. For true minimalist appeal, only the most vital and useful elements earn placement in the tranquil, uncluttered kitchen.
Designing Kitchens for Aging in Place
Given longer lifespans and the desire of many retirees to remain self-sufficient in their homes, designing a senior-friendly, age-in-place kitchen grows increasingly desirable. Smart adaptations make kitchens more livable, safe and accessible as abilities change.
For maneuvering and support, leverage wide walkways, ample knee space, sturdy grab bars and adjustable height islands and countertops. Lever-style hardware, touch latches and open shelving enhance accessibility.
Task lighting and large print displays on appliances aid failing vision. Drawers and pull-out shelves bring items within reach
