Photo of a mid-sized industrial u-shaped open plan kitchen in Lyon with an undermount sink, beaded inset cabinets, light wood cabinets, wood benchtops, panelled appliances, ceramic floors, a peninsula, grey floor and beige benchtop.

Sackett Street Towhouse

Frederick Tang Architecture

Photo of a contemporary galley kitchen in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, wood benchtops, white splashback, dark hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and brown benchtop.

Glengall Rd, Queen's Park, NW6

Huntsmore

Design ideas for a contemporary galley eat-in kitchen in London with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, black cabinets, wood benchtops, white splashback, subway tile splashback, panelled appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and brown benchtop.

六角形の家

アトリエSado株式会社

オーダーキッチン
Inspiration for a mid-sized asian galley open plan kitchen in Other with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, wood benchtops, white splashback, porcelain splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, multiple islands, brown floor and beige benchtop.

Japanese Modern ADU- Tiny House for a Designer

SBaird Design

Design ideas for an asian u-shaped kitchen in Portland with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, wood benchtops, white splashback, stainless steel appliances, concrete floors, no island, grey floor and brown benchtop.

Contemporary Kitchen

This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary galley separate kitchen in New York with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, black cabinets, wood benchtops, white splashback, stainless steel appliances, with island, brown benchtop, subway tile splashback, light hardwood floors and beige floor.

#whitecabinetswalnutop

Homestead Kitchens

Inspiration for a transitional eat-in kitchen in Boston with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white splashback, subway tile splashback, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors, with island, wood benchtops, beige floor and brown benchtop.

Living Small

Rick & Cindy Black Architects

shiplap walls Benjamin Moore 'Bavarian Cream' Dunn Edwards 'Hay Day' reclaimed pine shelves on steel brackets John Boos maple butcher block custom cabinetry

MAISON DE CAMPAGNE SURFONDS

LES CHANTIERS COTTIN

Victor Grandgeorges
Large country l-shaped eat-in kitchen in Paris with an undermount sink, beaded inset cabinets, blue cabinets, wood benchtops, brown splashback, timber splashback, stainless steel appliances, ceramic floors, with island and white floor.

Communa 33

Studio Bazi

Автор: Studio Bazi / Алиреза Немати Фотограф: Полина Полудкина
Small contemporary separate kitchen in Moscow with an undermount sink, medium wood cabinets, wood benchtops, white splashback, panelled appliances and medium hardwood floors.

Acreage Lifestyle Family Kitchen

Darren James Interiors

With significant internal wall remodelling, we removed an existing bedroom and utilised a lounge room to pave the way for a large open plan kitchen and dining area. We also removed an unwanted file storage room that backed onto the study and existing kitchen which allowed to the installation of a fully insulated temperature controlled cellar. A galley style kitchen was selected for the space and at the heart of the design is a large island bench that focuses on engagement and congregation and provides seating for 6. Acting as the activity hub of the kitchen, the island consists of split level benchtop which provides additional serving space for this family of avid entertainers. A standout feature is the large utility working wall that can be fully concealed when not in use and when open reveals not only a functional space but beautiful oak joinery and LED lit display shelving. The modern design of the kitchen is seen through the clean lines which are given an edge through the layering of materials resulting in a striking and rich palette. The all-black kitchen works well with the natural finishes and rawness of the timber finishes. The refined lines of the slimline Dekton benchtops complimented by the dark 2-pac and large format tiles make for a timeless scheme with an industrial edge. A fireplace was installed in the seating nook off the kitchen which was clad in rustic recycled timber, creating a textural element as well as bringing warmth and a sense of softness to the large space.

Butcher Block Countertop

Fratantoni Interior Designers

This French Country kitchen features a large island with butcher block countertops, black cabinetry with brass hardware, and open shelving.
Photo of an expansive mediterranean u-shaped open plan kitchen in Phoenix with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, black cabinets, wood benchtops, multi-coloured splashback, marble splashback, panelled appliances, marble floors, with island, multi-coloured floor and multi-coloured benchtop.

Baker Vintage Kitchen Remodel

TVL Creative Ltd.

Our wonderful Baker clients were ready to remodel the kitchen in their c.1900 home shortly after moving in. They were looking to undo the 90s remodel that existed, and make the kitchen feel like it belonged in their historic home. We were able to design a balance that incorporated the vintage charm of their home and the modern pops that really give the kitchen its personality. We started by removing the mirrored wall that had separated their kitchen from the breakfast area. This allowed us the opportunity to open up their space dramatically and create a cohesive design that brings the two rooms together. To further our goal of making their kitchen appear more open we removed the wall cabinets along their exterior wall and replaced them with open shelves. We then incorporated a pantry cabinet into their refrigerator wall to balance out their storage needs. This new layout also provided us with the space to include a peninsula with counter seating so that guests can keep the cook company. We struck a fun balance of materials starting with the black & white hexagon tile on the floor to give us a pop of pattern. We then layered on simple grey shaker cabinets and used a butcher block counter top to add warmth to their kitchen. We kept the backsplash clean by utilizing an elongated white subway tile, and painted the walls a rich blue to add a touch of sophistication to the space.

N8 Residence

Freymar Designs

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary galley eat-in kitchen in London with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, subway tile splashback, slate floors, with island, grey floor, wood benchtops, white splashback and stainless steel appliances.

Funky, fun, functional kitchen

Mastercraft Kitchens New Zealand

The Hafele 150mm pull out pantry nestles next to this and is perfect for bottle storage. Photographer: Jamie Cobel
Design ideas for a large contemporary galley eat-in kitchen in Christchurch with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, wood benchtops, stainless steel appliances, ceramic floors, with island and grey floor.

Turn key Interiors by Casa Mia

Casa Mia USA Inc.

Design ideas for a mid-sized modern l-shaped open plan kitchen in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, wood benchtops, grey splashback, stone slab splashback, stainless steel appliances, concrete floors, with island and grey floor.

Trout Lake 4

Lands End Development - Designers & Builders

Country l-shaped open plan kitchen in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, grey cabinets, wood benchtops, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island and orange floor.

Bright Modern Home in Allentown PA

a423 architecture & design, Inc.

Photo of a mid-sized industrial l-shaped eat-in kitchen in Philadelphia with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, wood benchtops, white splashback, subway tile splashback, stainless steel appliances, concrete floors and with island.

Brisbane CBD - Apartment

Kim Duffin for Sublime Luxury Kitchens & Bathrooms

This sky home with stunning views over Brisbane's CBD, the river and Kangaroo Point Cliffs captures the maturity now found in inner city living in Brisbane. Originally from Melbourne and with his experience gain from extensive business travel abroad, the owner of the apartment decided to transform his home to match the cosmopolitan lifestyle he has enjoyed whilst living in these locations. The original layout of the kitchen was typical for apartments built over 20 years ago. The space was restricted by a collection of small rooms, two dining areas plus kitchen that did not take advantage of the views or the need for a strong connection between living areas and the outdoors. The new design has managed to still give definition to activities performed in the kitchen, dining and living but through minimal detail the kitchen does not dominate the space which can often happen in an open plan. A typical galley kitchen design was selected as it best catered for how the space relates to the rest of the apartment and adjoining living space. An effortless workflow is created from the start point of the pantry, housing food stores as well as small appliances, and refrigerator. These are within easy reach of the preparation zones and cooking on the island. Then delivery to the dining area is seamless. There are a number of key features used in the design to create the feeling of spaces whilst maximising functionality. The mirrored kickboards reflect light (aided by the use of LED strip lighting to the underside of the cabinets) creating the illusion that the cabinets are floating thus reducing the footprint in the design. The simple design philosophy is continued with the use of Laminam, 3mm porcelain sheets to the vertical and horizontal surfaces. This material is then mitred on the edges of all drawers and doors extenuate the seamless, minimalist, cube look. A cantilevered bespoke silky oak timber benchtop placed on the island creates a small breakfast/coffee area whilst increasing bench space and creating the illusion of more space. The stain and other features of this unique piece of timber compliments the tones found in the porcelain skin of the kitchen. The half wall built behind the sinks hides the entry point of the services into the apartment. This has been clad in a complimentary laminate for the timber benchtop . Mirror splashbacks help reflect more light into the space. The cabinets above the cleaning zone also appear floating due to the mirrored surface behind and the placement of LED strip lighting used to highlight the perimeter. A fully imported FALMAC Stainless Rangehood and flyer over compliments the plasterboard bulkhead that houses the air conditioning whilst providing task lighting to the island. Lighting has been used throughout the space to highlight and frame the design elements whist creating illumination for all tasks completed in the kitchen. Achieving "fluid motion" has been a major influence in the choice of hardware used in the design. Blum servo drive electronic drawer opening systems have been used to counter act any issues that may be encounter by the added weight of the porcelain used on the drawer fronts. These are then married with Blum Intivo soft close drawer systems. The devil is in the detail with a design and space that is so low profile yet complicated in it's simplicity. Steve Ryan - Rix Ryan Photography

Armstrong - Rustic Hardwood

A & E Flooring

This is an example of a large country l-shaped eat-in kitchen in Orange County with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, wood benchtops, brown splashback, glass tile splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors and with island.

Kitchen with an Undermount Sink and Wood Benchtops 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!