Contemporary Kitchen with Dark Cabinetry and Light Countertops in Jacksonville

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary u-shaped kitchen pantry in Jacksonville with black cabinets, granite benchtops, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor, a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, white splashback, granite splashback, white benchtop and vaulted.

Embellished in Bay Shore

Consumers Kitchens & Baths

Photo of a small transitional l-shaped separate kitchen in New York with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, subway tile splashback, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor, white benchtop and vaulted.

Creative Pantry Space

Denver Design Group

Placing the microwave in the pantry frees up counter space and wall space.
Small transitional galley kitchen in Denver with a double-bowl sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite benchtops, white splashback, subway tile splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor, beige benchtop and vaulted.

Sardella

FORM Design + Build

Inspiration for a contemporary u-shaped kitchen in Santa Barbara with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, grey cabinets, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors, a peninsula, beige floor, white benchtop, exposed beam, vaulted and wood.

Rittenhouse St Whole House Renovation

Jordan Design-Build Group

Expanding and updating the kitchen was our top priority – the new layout was designed to straddle the original house and the addition, creating work zones rather than the traditional work triangle. The modified galley layout more than doubled their countertop area and storage space. Extending the kitchen into the addition took full advantage of the vaulted ceilings and light-filled space. To improve flow and connectivity, we opened up a wall between the old kitchen and the front entry hall providing a straight path from front door to the new mudroom/drop zone and kitchen beyond. A door from the dining room into the kitchen was shifted to allow for a more generous kitchen. The beautifully veined Calacatta Eiffel quartz counters and backsplash provide visual contrast with the black cabinetry and keep the space from feeling too heavy. A continuous ledge and floating shelves replace traditional uppers for a more open and modern feel. Stained wood is used throughout, from the bench top, to shelving, trim and custom millwork; it brings in a natural element and helps unite all of the spaces. A hood with a custom Venetian plaster finish is flanked by vintage inspired sconces and provides a stunning focal point in the room. A deep nook is home to a ‘bubble box’ that dispenses cold sparkling or still water on demand – the marble tile backsplash further differentiates this beverage zone. The brushed brass hardware stands out against the dark cabinets and adds a touch of warmth. With seating for three at the counter and the inclusion of a breakfast area banquette (with drawers), the home is ideal for family time and relaxed gatherings with friends.

Coastal Loft

Parker&Harlow Inc.

Inspiration for a small transitional galley open plan kitchen in Vancouver with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, marble splashback, panelled appliances, concrete floors, a peninsula, grey floor, white benchtop and vaulted.

Suburban Family Home Rejuvenated By The Addition Of A Modern Orangery

Westbury Garden Rooms

The original space was a long, narrow room, with a tv and sofa on one end, and a dining table on the other. Both zones felt completely disjointed and at loggerheads with one another. Attached to the space, through glazed double doors, was a small kitchen area, illuminated in borrowed light from the conservatory and an uninspiring roof light in a connecting space. But our designers knew exactly what to do with this home that had so much untapped potential. Starting by moving the kitchen into the generously sized orangery space, with informal seating around a breakfast bar. Creating a bright, welcoming, and social environment to prepare family meals and relax together in close proximity. In the warmer months the French doors, positioned within this kitchen zone, open out to a comfortable outdoor living space where the family can enjoy a chilled glass of wine and a BBQ on a cool summers evening.

Swisher Classic Family Home

Wiles Design Group

This beautiful, light-filled home radiates timeless elegance with a neutral palette and subtle blue accents. Thoughtful interior layouts optimize flow and visibility, prioritizing guest comfort for entertaining. The kitchen seamlessly integrates with the open-concept living area, featuring a thoughtful layout that accommodates dining, entertaining, and abundant functional features. --- Project by Wiles Design Group. Their Cedar Rapids-based design studio serves the entire Midwest, including Iowa City, Dubuque, Davenport, and Waterloo, as well as North Missouri and St. Louis. For more about Wiles Design Group, see here: https://wilesdesigngroup.com/ To learn more about this project, see here: https://wilesdesigngroup.com/swisher-iowa-new-construction-home-design

The Sussex Contemporary

Hamilton Stone Design

This is an example of a mid-sized u-shaped kitchen in Sussex with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, quartzite benchtops, white splashback, stone slab splashback, panelled appliances, medium hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor, white benchtop and vaulted.

Quail's End at Joshua Tree

Julia Chasman Design

The open plan kitchen mixes simple wood-grained IKEA cabinets with a classic 1952 vintage O'Keefe & Merritt double oven, offset by a custom installation of vintage hand-painted Spanish tiles as a backsplash, set into classic subway tile. The peninsula and counters are a gray quartz, and the farmhouse sink is from IKEA. Fridge and Dishwasher are stainless. Custom stove hood surround hide a powerful extractor fan. Great quartz counters, and Green Smoke accent wall on peninsula Mid-Century modern orange pendants from Rejuvenation. Photo by Bret Gum for Flea Market Decor Magazine

Espresso Cabinetry Kitchen

Ranieri Construction LLC

The flow and function of this kitchen was completely transformed by simply moving the refrigerator and creating an appliance wall. Countertop prep space is maximized and the blue glass backsplash becomes the focal point of the kitchen, instead of the old bulky fridge. The overall look is sleek and modern for this homeowner that cooks and entertains often.

Mid Mod Garden House

Kevin Spence Architect, AIA

Photo of a mid-sized midcentury u-shaped eat-in kitchen in Seattle with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium wood cabinets, solid surface benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor, white benchtop and vaulted.

Coomodore Drive

BJF Joinery

This is an example of a large galley kitchen pantry in Gold Coast - Tweed with shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, porcelain splashback, coloured appliances, a peninsula, white benchtop, an undermount sink, medium hardwood floors, multi-coloured floor and vaulted.

Marius Street

Arcata Cabinet & Design Company

This is an example of a mid-sized scandinavian u-shaped eat-in kitchen in Other with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, engineered quartz splashback, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor, white benchtop and vaulted.

Beautiful open kitchen

Waller Construction, Inc

This is an example of a mid-sized modern u-shaped open plan kitchen in Tampa with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, vinyl floors, a peninsula, grey floor, white benchtop and vaulted.

Scandi Inspired

Nicolette Jarquin, CKD

This Scandinavian-inspired kitchen flaunts minimalism and neutral colors. The result is a comfortable, relaxing space that just feels good. We opened up the dividing wall between the kitchen and living room to create a peninsula with seating, with an open-table look with an open-ended cabinet for displaying treasures. We used a white painted upper to lighten up the space, on top of beautiful blonde maple bases. An added wood fire-box and display cubby, create a cozy, yet sophisticated element that can be seen right as you enter the home. Check out the before shots!

Milbank Beach Condo

Tanya Ryan Design

L shaped kitchen looking out to the patio/deck and the great room. This open concept is perfect for this beach condo rental remodel.
Design ideas for a mid-sized beach style l-shaped open plan kitchen in San Diego with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, blue splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, vinyl floors, a peninsula, grey floor, white benchtop, vaulted and quartzite benchtops.

Birdsong Ranch, Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

Brad Cox, Architect, Inc.

Open to the living room, the kitchen features walnut open shelving, a gorgeous Cerno "Aeris" LED linear pendant, a SubZero refrigerator and generous work space on the granite peninsula. The large wall niche is a workhorse, holding mugs, a French press, and other kitchen staples. A small painting dresses up the niche and adds an unexpected treat.

Major Renovation with Universal Design Elements

Irons Brothers Construction Inc

We remodeled this unassuming mid-century home from top to bottom. An entire third floor and two outdoor decks were added. As a bonus, we made the whole thing accessible with an elevator linking all three floors. The 3rd floor was designed to be built entirely above the existing roof level to preserve the vaulted ceilings in the main level living areas. Floor joists spanned the full width of the house to transfer new loads onto the existing foundation as much as possible. This minimized structural work required inside the existing footprint of the home. A portion of the new roof extends over the custom outdoor kitchen and deck on the north end, allowing year-round use of this space. Exterior finishes feature a combination of smooth painted horizontal panels, and pre-finished fiber-cement siding, that replicate a natural stained wood. Exposed beams and cedar soffits provide wooden accents around the exterior. Horizontal cable railings were used around the rooftop decks. Natural stone installed around the front entry enhances the porch. Metal roofing in natural forest green, tie the whole project together. On the main floor, the kitchen remodel included minimal footprint changes, but overhauling of the cabinets and function. A larger window brings in natural light, capturing views of the garden and new porch. The sleek kitchen now shines with two-toned cabinetry in stained maple and high-gloss white, white quartz countertops with hints of gold and purple, and a raised bubble-glass chiseled edge cocktail bar. The kitchen’s eye-catching mixed-metal backsplash is a fun update on a traditional penny tile. The dining room was revamped with new built-in lighted cabinetry, luxury vinyl flooring, and a contemporary-style chandelier. Throughout the main floor, the original hardwood flooring was refinished with dark stain, and the fireplace revamped in gray and with a copper-tile hearth and new insert. During demolition our team uncovered a hidden ceiling beam. The clients loved the look, so to meet the planned budget, the beam was turned into an architectural feature, wrapping it in wood paneling matching the entry hall. The entire day-light basement was also remodeled, and now includes a bright & colorful exercise studio and a larger laundry room. The redesign of the washroom includes a larger showering area built specifically for washing their large dog, as well as added storage and countertop space. This is a project our team is very honored to have been involved with, build our client’s dream home.

Lots of Storage

Denver Design Group

Design ideas for a small transitional galley kitchen in Denver with a double-bowl sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, granite benchtops, white splashback, subway tile splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor, beige benchtop and vaulted.

Kitchen with a Peninsula and Vaulted Design Ideas

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to planning your kitchen design. Where do you even start? Gathering some inspiration in a photo gallery is always a good starting point, as looking at different kitchen designs often brings up ideas you haven’t even thought of yet.

Browse Photos of Kitchen Designs for Inspiration and Collect Your Ideas

You can browse through photos of all kinds of kitchen styles, layouts and sizes on Houzz to get started before jumping into any design software or contacting a local professional for help. Here’s a few considerations to keep in mind when planning your kitchen.

1. What Makes a Good Kitchen Design, and Why is it Important?

For starters, you want to find a balance between aesthetics and function. You may have heard of the ‘kitchen work triangle’, which refers to the space between your fridge, sink and stove. You want everything within easy reach when you’re working in the kitchen and look beautiful at the same time. It’s a good idea to take note of both when browsing our photo gallery.

2. Consider Your Space to Determine Your Kitchen Layout

Firstly, consider the space you have, and the limitations that come with it. Do you have a small kitchen and need to maximise your workspace and storage? Can you allow yourself some more space and a big island with seating? Are you designing your kitchen from scratch or renovating an existing design? Which appliances do you already own and what are their measurements? Are there windows you need to take into consideration when planning cabinets? How do kitchen, living and dining areas connect? Depending on your space and needs, you want to use a shape that suits you. U, G, or L-shaped kitchen, with or without island or peninsula? Know your dimensions, plan cabinetry carefully and consider the placement of your appliances. You don’t want to end up with a finished design, only for your significant other to question where the fridge is supposed to go. Consider from the start where your fridge, oven, microwave and sink goes to save yourself from starting again from scratch - remember the kitchen work triangle! You also want to plan the layout of your cabinets. Maybe you’re planning for a pantry and can do with less storage space in your kitchen, so that your design can be one without upper or lower cabinets for a different look. A corner cabinet can be a smart storage solution if you want to keep the look clean and simple.

3. Decide on a Kitchen Style, But Don’t Forget Practicality

You want the style of your kitchen to reflect your personality and taste. We have curated a large array of kitchen styles here at Houzz, from traditional to contemporary to transitional and everything in between. Consider what your cooking style is for a start - Italy is known for its cuisine, so italian kitchen designs are generally popular. Also consider ergonomics - depending on how much time you spend in your kitchen, the height of your counters can make a big difference to your overall health. You also want to consider colour and finishes of cabinets, countertops and splashbacks. Which colour do you want your cupboards to be? Simple, timeless white or rather making a statement in black? Maybe rather a rustic wood? Also consider the colour of your floor - if you have dark floors, you may want to keep cabinets lighter. You could also go for an all-white look and choose black appliances for contrast. Once you know which style you fancy, don’t forget how you will be using the space. You want to keep cooking in mind, as well as how easy to clean and maintain the space will be. How many cooks do you need to accommodate? Do you have kids around? How much storage do you need? Maybe you want to go for open shelves rather than cabinets and allow for easy reach of key items you use when cooking. Again - remember the triangle! Lastly, choose lighting that both enhances the look of your kitchen as well as your cooking performance, providing light in all the right places.

4. Be Conscious of Your Budget

No matter what you plan for your kitchen design, cost is always a big factor. Be sure to plan with your budget in mind. It may make more sense to go for a modular kitchen design rather than custom build. You can save a lot of money if you get at least 3 estimates from professionals before locking in the job. And don’t forget to allow a 20% buffer for emergencies. Once you are ready to hire a pro, our directory will help you find one, no matter where you are. So whether you're looking for an Interior Designer in Melbourne or an Architect in Sydney, you can be sure to find a qualified expert for the job!