Contemporary kitchen designs are all about clean lines, minimalism, and a sleek, modern aesthetic. This week we’re highlighting 3 stunning contemporary kitchens that embrace the latest trends with creative flair. From bold colors to innovative storage solutions, these kitchens showcase why the contemporary style is so popular right now. Read on for an inside look at the details behind these inspiring spaces.
Celebrating Simplicity
This soothing, ivory-toned kitchen designed by Kitchen Lab is a sublime example of contemporary minimalism. Crisp white cabinetry paired with light wood accents creates a fresh, airy ambiance. By limiting color variation and decluttering the space, the design allows the subtle textures and materials to shine.
Clean Lines Define the Space
The most distinctive aspect of this contemporary kitchen is its seamless integration of lines. The linear patterns in the marble backsplash align perfectly with the direction of the cabinetry and draw the eye towards the view beyond. Even the modern matte hardware reiterates the horizontal theme. This cohesion creates a soothing sense of flow.
Q: How does the lighting contribute to the contemporary aesthetic?
A: The lighting plays a key role in enhancing the modern feel. LED strips concealed under the upper cabinets provide task lighting with a diffused glow. The pendant lamps over the waterfall island illuminate the workspace with soft, uniform light from above. This thoughtful approach avoids overly bright or harsh lighting.
Q: What type of cabinetry works best for the contemporary look?
A: The slab style full-overlay cabinetry seen here is ideal. Its flat, slab-like fronts maintain the minimalist aesthetic. The concealed hinges also contribute to the streamlined appearance. A gloss or matte lacquer finish in a neutral solid color is best to complement the contemporary vibe.
The Transformative Island
The waterfall island is an innovative focal point. Its elongated shape and cantilevered design create a striking floating effect. The white quartzite countertop appears to flow seamlessly off the edges. This island transforms the kitchen into a social gathering space without disrupting the harmonious design.
Q: How does a waterfall island benefit the kitchen?
A: A waterfall island serves both form and function. Visually, it adds drama through its sculptural, built-in look. The extended countertop creates additional seating space for entertaining. It also maximizes work area around the perimeter. The flow from counter to floor makes cleaning simple.
Warm Wood Tones Enliven a Contemporary Kitchen
Designed by Nuform Architecture, this contemporary kitchen uses warm wood tones to infuse interest into a sleek, modern framework. The chocolate-stained oak cabinetry paired with textural wood details adds organic allure.
A Study in Contrasts
The interplay between materials creates depth and dimension. The horizontal wood grain contrasts beautifully with the polished Calacatta Gold marble counters. Meanwhile, the matte lacquer cabinetry plays against the shine of the stainless appliances. These thoughtful juxtapositions make the space visually intriguing.
Q: How are the wood elements incorporated?
A: The wood introduces welcome warmth. Oak frames the glossy cabinetry, while a multicolored oak backsplash provides a mosaic-like focal point. Open shelves crafted from the stained oak display serveware with natural flair. The suspended wood canopy above the stove adds a sculptural touch.
Textural Touches Enhance the Design
From the vent hood to the dining chairs, textural accents elevate the contemporary framework. The custom metal and wood vent hood injects an earthy, handcrafted vibe. The crosshatch metal bar stools and linear dining chairs provide unexpected punctuation. These textural touches bring depth and personality to the sleek kitchen.
Q: How do you incorporate texture into a contemporary kitchen?
A: Layering tactile accents throughout the space in moderation can enhance the minimalist look. Ideas include a custom metal range hood, leathered granite counters, linen upholstered stools, a reclaimed wood dining table or open shelving. Avoid going overboard for optimal balance.
Bold Color Transforms a Contemporary Kitchen
This kitchen designed by deVOL Kitchens proves that color can be an impactful accent in the contemporary kitchen. By limiting the emerald hue to select components, it packs a punch.
The Jewel-Toned Island Anchors the Space
The vibrant emerald-colored island commands attention as the room’s focal point. Its glossy lacquered cabinetry in a rich jewel tone provides an unexpected pop of color. The surrounding neutral palette allows this bold island to feel striking, not overwhelming.
Q: How is color strategically used throughout the kitchen?
A: The eye-catching emerald island provides most of the color. It’s balanced by calm neutrals like the creamy cabinetry, marble counters and oak flooring. Pops of brass via the modern sconces, sink and cabinetry hardware provide subtle accent hues. This strategic use of color creates lively contrast.
Sophisticated Mix of Materials
The kitchen celebrates a rich variety of materials that feel cohesive thanks to a subdued color scheme. Warm wood cabinetry plays against cool marble and concrete. Metallics from the brass and stainless steel add sheen, while the linen upholstery provides soft contrast. It’s a compelling blend of natural and industrial elements.
Q: How do the finishes and details contribute to the contemporary aesthetic?
A: The finishes selected embrace minimalist elegance. Matte lacquered cabinetry and smooth countertops create seamless surfaces. Hidden hinges on doors and drawers maintain clean sightlines. Linear brass lighting and hardware introduce sleek metallic accenting. These details reinforce the kitchen’s refined, contemporary personality.
Designing Your Own Contemporary Kitchen
If you’re considering a contemporary kitchen remodel, keep these design tips in mind:
Choose a Neutral Palette
Focus on different textures rather than colorful variation. Grays, whites and wood tones make an ideal subdued base to build upon.
Select Streamlined Cabinetry
Opt for a minimalist style like full-overlay or flat-panel doors in a matte or high-gloss lacquered finish. Concealed hinges contribute to a seamless look.
Incorporate Strong Lines
Emphasize horizontal and vertical lines through your cabinetry layout, backsplash tile pattern and lighting arrangements. This creates cohesion.
Use Minimalist Materials
Keep your materials palette pared down. Think quartz or marble counters, metal accents and wood or matte lacquered cabinetry for space-age appeal.
Add Pops of Color
Use bold color strategically as an accent. Try a vibrant backsplash or lacquered island to infuse modern flair without overpowering the space.
Include Sleek Fixtures
Seek out lighting, faucets and hardware with clean, linear or geometric shapes. This enhances the contemporary vibe.
Infuse Natural Texture
Incorporate organic touches like wood, leather or linen to provide warmth and contrast. This balances the sleek surfaces.
6 Key Questions to Ask About Contemporary Kitchens
- How do I choose cabinetry with a contemporary look? Focus on a minimalist style with concealed hinges, in a matte lacquer, high-gloss lacquer or wood finish.
- What types of counters work best? Quartz, marble, concrete and Corian are ideal options that support the streamlined aesthetic.
- What backsplash designs complement a contemporary kitchen? Opt for backsplashes with strong linear patterns or bold solid colors to enhance the modern style.
- What types of sinks should I consider? Undermount sinks maintain a seamless counter surface. Stainless steel, ceramic or quartz composite are sleek options.
- How can I incorporate wood tones? Use oak or walnut for open shelving, flooring, dining sets and cabinetry frames to infuse organic warmth.
- What finishing touches polish the contemporary look? Matte black hardware, recessed lighting, pendant lamps and leather or linen stools add refined accents.
The Takeaway: Achieving a Contemporary Look
Contemporary kitchen design celebrates minimalism, strong lines, and a sleek, space-age style. The strategic use of bold color along with warm, natural accents can enhance the modern aesthetic. With smart planning and the right combination of materials, you can create a contemporary cooking space that both awes and inspires.
New This Week: 3 Great Contemporary Kitchens
Contemporary kitchen designs embrace minimalism and modern materials to create a sleek, polished look. This week we’re showcasing three stunning examples that bring the contemporary style to life through clean lines, bold color and creative use of textures. Whether you’re considering a full remodel or just looking to infuse some modern flair into your cooking space, these fashion-forward kitchens are sure to inspire.
Linear Loft Kitchen in Chicago
This urban kitchen designed by A+I Design exemplifies contemporary design with its simplistic style and bold geometric shapes.
An Exercise in Linearity
The first thing that strikes you about this space is the strong horizontal lines. The lengthy floating wood shelf, bench seating and low-profile cabinets all reiterate the linear theme. Even the floor tiles and pendant lighting align to strengthen the visual flow. This consistency creates cohesion and harmony.
Q: How do the finishes support the contemporary aesthetic?
A: The finishes selected are all about sleek, seamless surfaces. The glossy cabinetry provides a slick facade while the quartzite counters offer a polished, stone-like solidity. The stainless steel appliances contribute an industrial vibe. These refined materials work in tandem to create a luxe, contemporary environment.
The Focal Point Island
The show-stopping island commands attention with its bold green lacquered base and sculptural cruciform countertop. This functional centerpiece provides additional prep space and casual seating while making a stark contemporary statement.
Q: What design strategies maximize the island’s visual impact?
A: Several approaches make this island a focal point. The vibrant color contrasts dramatically with the neutral palette, instantly drawing the eye. The cantilevered slab countertop appears to float gracefully. Finally, the cruciform shape provides sharp lines that diverge dynamically from the prevailing horizontals.
Rethinking Backsplash Materials
This kitchen reimagines the backsplash by using pendant lighting panels in place of tile. The matte black aluminum panels continue the linear motif while providing ambient task lighting – a creative contemporary solution.
Contemporary Meets Cozy in this Inviting Kitchen
Designed by Onlyluxury, this kitchen proves contemporary style can also create a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The subtle material contrasts and thoughtful lighting cultivate inviting appeal.
Warmth Through Natural Textures
The natural wood cabinetry, leathered granite countertops and woven pendant lights infuse organic texture to prevent a sterile vibe. Meanwhile, the matte black hardware and fixtures supply contrasting sophistication. This nurtures a livable, contemporary environment.
Q: How does the lighting help create a welcoming ambiance?
A: The lighting choices provide a key source of warmth. The mesh pendulum fixtures supply a diffuse, enveloping glow. Undercabinet lighting illuminates tasks without harshness. The recessed cans supplement overall illumination at night. This combination generates a softly lit, relaxing atmosphere.
Celebrating Materiality
From the ceramic subway tile to the marble-patterned quartz, this kitchen provides a feast for the senses through contrasting substances. The materials speak to both contemporary and classic aesthetics for eclectic harmony.
Q: How do the finishes straddle contemporary and traditional?
A: The finishes include a mix of old and new. Matte lacquered cabinetry and Caeserstone quartz counters align with contemporary style. Meanwhile, the marble backsplash, apron sink and woven pendants supply traditional warmth. This enables a look that feels current yet comfortable.
Contemporary Kitchen Awash in Oceanic Blue
This bold blue kitchen by deVOL Kitchens takes color to daring new heights in the contemporary kitchen. By drenching the entire space in a dynamic sapphire blue hue, they create a transportive, oceanside feel.
The All-Encompassing Color Statement
Unlike most contemporary kitchens, this one fully commits to color for dramatic impact. The blue lacquered cabinetry paired with glossy walls, ceiling and accent tiles creates a vibrant, cocooning effect. Even the range hood receives a splash of blue via handpainted tiles.
Q: How is the all-blue color scheme executed successfully?
A: Several strategies prevent overwhelm. Opting for just a two-tone blue palette creates cohesion. Adding warmth through wood open shelving balances the cool tones. The varied textures and finishes layered atop the colors provide depth. Keeping the stainless steel and brass finishes consistent with contemporary kitchens also helps.
Infusing Organic Contrast
The ash wood open shelves provide a welcome dose of natural texture to contrast the high-gloss finishes. The milky glass pendants also diffuse the lighting for a softening effect. Meanwhile, the brass hardware injects a subtle metallic sheen.
Q: How does the lighting enhance the blue kitchen?
A: The lighting choices help replicate the shimmering aura of light dancing across water. The ambient overhead lighting casts a bright yet diffused glow across surfaces. Meanwhile, the backlit glass shelves contribute an ethereal, underwater feel. Task lighting built into the cabinetry provides stronger directional light for prepping.
Key Takeaways for the Contemporary Kitchen
- Celebrate clean lines and minimalist forms for a sleek modern look.
- Use bold color selectively as an unexpected accent.
- Incorporate natural wood tones and textures to create warmth.
- Choose sleek, seamless materials like marble, quartz and matte lacquer.
- Use lighting strategically to create ambiance and highlight architectural details.
- Add metal accents like stainless steel appliances and brass fixtures for sheen.
- Design with multi-functionality in mind, like a kitchen island that can double as a dining table.
The contemporary kitchen represents the essence of modernity and innovation. By embracing its streamlined aesthetic and creative use of materials, your kitchen can feel transportive and unique. Use these stunning spaces for inspiration when designing your own contemporary dream kitchen.
New This Week: 3 Great Contemporary Kitchens
Contemporary kitchen design embraces minimalism, modern materials and an emphasis on clean lines to create stylish, functional spaces. This week we’re highlighting three stunning new examples that demonstrate the many possibilities of contemporary style. Whether you love bold color, warm wood tones or sleek surfaces, these on-trend kitchens are sure to inspire.
Harmonizing Horizontal Lines in a Contemporary Open Concept Kitchen
This airy kitchen designed by studio976 exemplifies contemporary style with its simplified forms, crisp materials and celebration of line.
Q. How is linearity emphasized in the design?
Horizontal lines rule the aesthetic. The lengthy quartzite island lines up perfectly with the cabinetry and counters to exaggerate the linear look. Even the tile backsplash, lighting and vent hood carry the horizontal torch. This creates cohesion and a soothing sense of flow.
Warm Wood Tones Infuse Organic Appeal
The rich wood dining table, winding light fixture and framed open shelves provide a dose of natural texture to balance the sleek surfaces. The subtle grain visible in the cabinetry veneer also introduces warmth. These organic accents prevent a sterile vibe.
Q. How do the finishes contribute to the contemporary aesthetic?
The finishes selected embrace minimalist luxury. Matte lacquered cabinetry offers a seamless, polished facade while the marble backsplash and counters provide subtle variation. The metals from the appliances, sinks and fixtures add sleek industrial accenting.
Built-In Banquette: The New Breakfast Nook
This space reimagines the breakfast nook as a built-in banquette lined with windows. This tailored seating option saves space while supplying perfect perches for enjoying coffee or a meal.
Infusing a Galley Kitchen With Warm Contemporary Style
This kitchen by Massucco Warner Miller proves contemporary design can still feel inviting and livable, even in a narrow galley layout. Strategic material and lighting choices cultivate warmth.
Q. How does the lighting help create an inviting ambiance?
The layered lighting warms up the sleek space. Undercabinet fixtures provide task lighting while the conical pendulum lamps offer welcoming overhead ambient lighting. Extra fixtures over the banquette maximize visibility. This thoughtful illumination creates a cozy vibe.
A Celebration of Finishes
From glossy painted cabinetry to exotic countertops, this kitchen provides a feast for the senses. The mix of wood, solid surfaces, stone, metal and mirrored glass supplies depth and dimension. The backlit glass shelves lining the backsplash feel ultra-modern.
Q. How do the finishes straddle contemporary and traditional?
The material mix includes both contemporary and classic elements. The lacquered cabinetry and reflective surfaces feel modern while the marble counters, glass doored cabinetry and woven stool seats nod to tradition. This enables a look that feels current yet comfortable.
Hidden Storage Abounds
This kitchen masters concealed storage. Drawers outfitted with organizers and pullouts conceal small appliances and tools. A pullout pantry maximizes space. The banquette benches hide bins. These solutions keep the aesthetic tidy.
A Bold Emerald Green Kitchen Island Anchors a Neutral Space
This kitchen by deVOL Kitchens uses a vibrant green island to inject bold personality into a pared-back contemporary framework. Handmade details add further flair.
Q. How does color make this island a focal point?
The glossy emerald-hued island provides an eye-catching pop of color. Contrasted against the neutral cabinetry and light wood open shelving, this bold focal point instantly draws the gaze. The handpainted Moroccan tiles matching the green provide further embellishment.
The Full Mix: Materials and Finishes
This kitchen celebrates a full array of materials and finishes, from the traditional painted tiles to the concrete edging on the counters. Stainless steel, wood, quartz, glossy paint and handworked metal collaborate for lush depth.
