Kitchen opening through to butlers pantry. Recycled timber benchtop to island, stainless steel bench to centre sink area and black laminate bench to rear. Photo: Lara Masselos Partial house Staging: Baxter Macintosh

Sherwood Whole Home Remodel & Decor

Design Directions

When Amy and Brandon, hip 30 year old attorneys decided to look for a home with better outdoor living space, closer to restaurants and night spots, their search landed them on a house with the perfect outdoor oasis. Unfortunately, it came with an interior that was a mish mash of 50’s, 60’s and 70’s design. Having already taken on a DIY remodel on their own, they weren’t interested in going through the stress and frustration of one again. They were resolute on hiring an expert designer and contractor to renovate their new home. The completed renovation features sleek black cabinetry, rich ebony floors, bold geometric tile in the bath, gold hardware and lighting that together, create a fresh and modern take on traditional style. Thoughtfully designed cabinetry packs this modest sized kitchen with more cabinetry & features than some kitchens twice it’s size, including two spacious islands. Choosing not to use upper cabinets on one wall was a design choice that allowed us to feature an expanse of pure white quartz as the backdrop for the kitchens curvy hood and spikey gold sconces. A mix of high end furniture, finishes and lighting all came together to create just the right mix to lend a 21st century vibe to this quaint traditional home.

Rustic Farmhouse

Rojahn Custom Cabinetry

Photo of a large country single-wall open plan kitchen in Baltimore with a farmhouse sink, black cabinets and multiple islands.

Benton Farms

Carlton Edwards

Alyssa Rosenheck, Photographer
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary kitchen in Other with flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, quartz benchtops, stainless steel appliances, white benchtop, light hardwood floors, beige floor and multiple islands.

Altrincham County House Kitchen - Bespoke Shaker Kitchen, Hand-crafted Kitchen

Drew Forsyth & co

We are proud to present this breath-taking kitchen design that blends traditional and modern elements to create a truly unique and personal space. Upon entering, the Crittal-style doors reveal the beautiful interior of the kitchen, complete with a bespoke island that boasts a curved bench seat that can comfortably seat four people. The island also features seating for three, a Quooker tap, AGA oven, and a rounded oak table top, making it the perfect space for entertaining guests. The mirror splashback adds a touch of elegance and luxury, while the traditional high ceilings and bi-fold doors allow plenty of natural light to flood the room. The island is not just a functional space, but a stunning piece of design as well. The curved cupboards and round oak butchers block are beautifully complemented by the quartz worktops and worktop break-front. The traditional pilasters, nickel handles, and cup pulls add to the timeless feel of the space, while the bespoke serving tray in oak, integrated into the island, is a delightful touch. Designing for large spaces is always a challenge, as you don't want to overwhelm or underwhelm the space. This kitchen is no exception, but the designers have successfully created a space that is both functional and beautiful. Each drawer and cabinet has its own designated use, and the dovetail solid oak draw boxes add an elegant touch to the overall bespoke kitchen. Each design is tailored to the household, as the designers aim to recreate the period property's individual character whilst mixing traditional and modern kitchen design principles. Whether you're a home cook or a professional chef, this kitchen has everything you need to create your culinary masterpieces. This kitchen truly is a work of art, and I can't wait for you to see it for yourself! Get ready to be inspired by the beauty, functionality, and timeless style of this bespoke kitchen, designed specifically for your household.

Modern Küche

Design ideas for a mid-sized contemporary galley eat-in kitchen in Cologne with flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, black appliances, dark hardwood floors, multiple islands, black floor and black benchtop.

Frank Lloyd Wright Inspired

Turner Design Firm

Expansive contemporary u-shaped kitchen in Baltimore with stainless steel benchtops, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, stainless steel appliances, concrete floors, a triple-bowl sink, metallic splashback, multiple islands, grey floor and black benchtop.

Kraftmaid Cabinetry

Tri Arc Builders

Photo of a large transitional l-shaped eat-in kitchen in Richmond with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, black cabinets, granite benchtops, beige splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors, multiple islands and brown floor.

KraftMaid

Decorum Designer Cabinetry & Flooring

Design ideas for a large traditional l-shaped open plan kitchen in Jacksonville with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, black cabinets, marble benchtops, beige splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors, multiple islands and brown floor.

PK17 - Master on The Main Modern Farmhouse

Cascade West Development

This Beautiful Multi-Story Modern Farmhouse Features a Master On The Main & A Split-Bedroom Layout • 5 Bedrooms • 4 Full Bathrooms • 1 Powder Room • 3 Car Garage • Vaulted Ceilings • Den • Large Bonus Room w/ Wet Bar • 2 Laundry Rooms • So Much More!

Dallas Kitchen Re-due

Rodi Custom Homes

Photo of a large transitional eat-in kitchen in Dallas with a farmhouse sink, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, marble benchtops, white splashback, marble splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, multiple islands, brown floor and white benchtop.

Palmetto Bluff Contemporary

Center Point Cabinets

This is an example of an expansive contemporary u-shaped open plan kitchen in Other with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, beige splashback, panelled appliances, ceramic floors, multiple islands, grey floor and exposed beam.

Layfayette Blvd

Alisha Taylor Interiors

Photo of a beach style kitchen in Phoenix with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, black cabinets, white splashback, panelled appliances, medium hardwood floors, multiple islands and white benchtop.

Montana Ski-In-Ski-Out Chalet

CENTENNIAL WOODS

Photo of a country eat-in kitchen in Denver with an undermount sink, black cabinets, grey splashback, stone slab splashback, light hardwood floors, multiple islands and grey benchtop.

Romantic Storybook Escape

Veranda Designer Homes

Large country u-shaped eat-in kitchen in Dallas with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, black cabinets, granite benchtops, beige splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors and multiple islands.

Kitchen Renovation

Hometek Renovations & Extensions

Photo of a large contemporary single-wall eat-in kitchen in Sydney with a single-bowl sink, black cabinets, quartz benchtops, beige splashback, ceramic splashback, ceramic floors, multiple islands, multi-coloured floor and black benchtop.

Amarra Estate

Marion Interior Design

This is an example of an expansive transitional u-shaped open plan kitchen in Austin with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, black cabinets, quartz benchtops, grey splashback, mosaic tile splashback, panelled appliances, marble floors, multiple islands, white floor, white benchtop and exposed beam.

Stunning & Sleek Modern Retreat

Chervin Kitchen & Bath Inc.

This home is breathtaking! The owners have poured themselves into the fully custom design of their property, ensuring it is truly their dream space - a modern retreat founded on the melding of cool and warm tones, the alluring charm of natural materials, and the refreshing calm of streamlined design. In the kitchen, note the endless flow through the marble floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, waterfall countertop, and smooth slab cabinet doors. The minimalist style in this kitchen is contrasted by the grandeur of its sheer size, and this ultra-modern home, though cool and neutral, holds the potential for many warm evenings with lots of company.

Chase Remodel

jo scott design

Large country l-shaped open plan kitchen in Los Angeles with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, black cabinets, marble benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, black appliances, medium hardwood floors, multiple islands and brown floor.

Urban Classic

LMOH Home

Dreaming of a farmhouse life in the middle of the city, this custom new build on private acreage was interior designed from the blueprint stages with intentional details, durability, high-fashion style and chic liveable luxe materials that support this busy family's active and minimalistic lifestyle. | Photography Joshua Caldwell

Kitchen with Black Cabinets and multiple Islands 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!