Photo of a mid-sized transitional u-shaped kitchen in San Diego with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, grey splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, porcelain floors, with island, grey floor and white benchtop.

Contemporary Kitchen Design Ideas

Everingham Design

Inspiration for a large contemporary l-shaped open plan kitchen in Columbus with an undermount sink, medium wood cabinets, quartzite benchtops, white splashback, marble splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island, brown floor, white benchtop and flat-panel cabinets.

Easton Traditional Farmhouse

Segerson Builders

Farmhouse kitchen area featuring antique beams and floors and a blue kitchen island with a butcher block top.
Photo of a mid-sized country u-shaped kitchen in Other with a farmhouse sink, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, subway tile splashback, stainless steel appliances, with island, recessed-panel cabinets, light hardwood floors and white benchtop.

The Block 2016- Julia & Sasha

Freedom Kitchens

Photography: Shania Shegeden. Oozing luxury and glamour this kitchen is a modern take on the traditional Shaker style. Featuring stunning Gaggenau appliances throughout, Caesarstone Statuario Maximus benchtops and splashback and Shaker style cabinetry in matte white and black; this is a kitchen that demands attention. A metallic sink and new Bright Brass cornet handles add luxury to the timeless design and the generous butler’s pantry offers generous storage, open shelving, coffee machine and integrated dishwasher. Featuring: •Cabinetry: Sierra White Matt & Black Matt •Benchtops: Caesarstone Statuario Maximus 20mm pencil edge (back run) & 40mm pencil edge (Island) •Splashback: Caesarstone Statuario Maximus •Handles: 22-K-102 Bright Brass cornet •Accessories: Oliveri Spectra Gold sink, Tall Brass Deluxe tap, Stainless steel cutlery tray, Internal Drawers, Le mans corner pull out unit, Stainless steel pull out wire baskets, Bin •Gaggenau Appliances

Mt. Vernon

Dana Clemons

photo: garey gomez
Design ideas for a large beach style u-shaped eat-in kitchen in Atlanta with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, subway tile splashback, ceramic floors, with island, grey floor, white benchtop and stainless steel appliances.

Madison's View

Centre Sky Architecture Ltd

Photos by Whitney Kamman
This is an example of a large country galley eat-in kitchen in Other with light wood cabinets, with island, an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, beige floor, quartzite benchtops and medium hardwood floors.

Function & Style: Modern Kitchen Redesign

Interiors by Popov

Inspiration for a small modern kitchen in Seattle with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors and brown floor.

Graceful Gray Kitchen Remodel - Glen Ellyn, IL

TKS Design Group

Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW The homeowners of this mid-century Colonial and family of four were frustrated with the layout of their existing kitchen which was a small, narrow peninsula layout but that was adjoining a large space that they could not figure out how to use. Stealing part of the unused space seemed like an easy solution, except that there was an existing transition in floor height which made that a bit tricky. The solution of bringing the floor height up to meet the height of the existing kitchen allowed us to do just that. This solution also offered some challenges. The exterior door had to be raised which resulted in some exterior rework, and the floor transition had to happen somewhere to get out to the garage, so we ended up “pushing” it towards what is now a new mudroom and powder room area. This solution allows for a small but functional and hidden mudroom area and more private powder room situation. Another challenge of the design was the very narrow space. To minimize issues with this, we moved the location of the refrigerator into the newly found space which gave us an L-shaped layout allowing for an island and even some shallow pantry storage. The windows over the kitchen sink were expanded in size and relocated to allow more light into the room. A breakfast table fits perfectly in the area adjacent to the existing French doors and there was even room for a small bar area that helps transition from inside to outside for entertaining. The confusing unused space now makes sense and provides functionality on a daily basis. To help bring some calm to this busy family, a pallet of soft neutrals was chosen -- gray glass tile with a simple metal accent strip, clear modern pendant lights and a neutral color scheme for cabinetry and countertops. For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Traditional San Diego

User

Traditional but unusually shaped kitchen with a white painted cabinets, seapearl quartzite countertops, tradewinds tint mosaic backsplash, paneled appliances, dark wood island with hidden outlets. Featuring a flat panel TV in the backsplash for your viewing pleasure while cooking for your family. This great kitchen is adjacent to an amazing outdoor living space with multiple living spaces and an outdoor pool. Traditional but unusually shaped kitchen with a white painted cabinets, seapearl quartzite countertops, tradewinds tint mosaic backsplash, paneled appliances, dark wood island with hidden outlets. Featuring a flat panel TV in the backsplash for your viewing pleasure while cooking for your family. This great kitchen is adjacent to an amazing outdoor living space with multiple living spaces and an outdoor pool. Photos by Jon Upson

Custom Barn Conversion

Ailtire Studio llc

Inspiration for a mid-sized country galley open plan kitchen in Philadelphia with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, porcelain splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island, brown floor, white benchtop and exposed beam.

Transitional Glam Kitchen

Normandy Remodeling

The white painted perimeter cabinets with glass fronts are reminiscent of what one would find “back in the day”. The large, dark stained island boasts a second sink and seating for casual dining and conversation. The island has a Caesarstone countertop, which gives the look of Carrera marble but is far more durable. The butcher block counter at the end of the island has an abundance of lighting for prep work and houses the prep sink. The contrast in heights, colors and textures of these two countertops provides a nice visual break for this long island while balancing the sleek look of the Caesarstone with the warmth and charm of natural wood.

Traditional kitchen nestled in Franklin

Terri Sears, Kitchen and Bath Designer

Photo of a large traditional l-shaped open plan kitchen in Nashville with a farmhouse sink, beaded inset cabinets, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, marble splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and white benchtop.

Worldly Heritage

JRP Design & Remodel

To spotlight the owners’ worldly decor, this remodel quietly complements the furniture and art textures, colors, and patterns abundant in this beautiful home. The original master bath had a 1980s style in dire need of change. By stealing an adjacent bedroom for the new master closet, the bath transformed into an artistic and spacious space. The jet-black herringbone-patterned floor adds visual interest to highlight the freestanding soaking tub. Schoolhouse-style shell white sconces flank the matching his and her vanities. The new generous master shower features polished nickel dual shower heads and hand shower and is wrapped in Bedrosian Porcelain Manifica Series in Luxe White with satin finish. The kitchen started as dated and isolated. To add flow and more natural light, the wall between the bar and the kitchen was removed, along with exterior windows, which allowed for a complete redesign. The result is a streamlined, open, and light-filled kitchen that flows into the adjacent family room and bar areas – perfect for quiet family nights or entertaining with friends. Crystal Cabinets in white matte sheen with satin brass pulls, and the white matte ceramic backsplash provides a sleek and neutral palette. The newly-designed island features Calacutta Royal Leather Finish quartz and Kohler sink and fixtures. The island cabinets are finished in black sheen to anchor this seating and prep area, featuring round brass pendant fixtures. One end of the island provides the perfect prep and cut area with maple finish butcher block to match the stove hood accents. French White Oak flooring warms the entire area. The Miele 48” Dual Fuel Range with Griddle offers the perfect features for simple or gourmet meal preparation. A new dining nook makes for picture-perfect seating for night or day dining. Welcome to artful living in Worldly Heritage style. Photographer: Andrew - OpenHouse VC

Olathe MCM

Stumpff HomeWorks, LLC

Photo of a midcentury single-wall eat-in kitchen in Kansas City with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium wood cabinets, quartz benchtops, multi-coloured splashback, granite splashback, panelled appliances, slate floors, with island, black floor, white benchtop and vaulted.

Trevaylor Cottage

Lydia Allen Interiors

Design ideas for a small eclectic u-shaped eat-in kitchen in Cornwall with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, yellow cabinets, quartzite benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, terra-cotta floors, no island, brown floor and white benchtop.

Black Heart

Maven Home Interiors

This modern kitchen has statement lighting above the island with a dropped wood soffit with wood slats. The island has waterfall ends and most of the appliances are stainless steel. The refrigerator and freezer are paneled with a flush application. The counters, backsplash and hood are all quartzite.

Serene Light Green Kitchen Design

Tom Howley

Designed from our Devine collection, this light green Kitchen is a blend of elegance and comfort. Its 'Moonstone' paint colour offers a tranquil space for culinary passions. The pale sage green cabinetry, complemented by burnished brass handles, sets an enchanting tone. The smoked oak veneer adds depth against the stunning Silestone Calacatta Gold worktops, creating a captivating dance of light. With Miele appliances, this kitchen blends classic design and modern technology. At Tom Howley, we've meticulously crafted every detail to embody our ethos. With its serene aesthetics and flawless functionality, this kitchen is a place where elegance and comfort seamlessly intertwine.

Japandi-Inspired Kitchen

Fox Interiors

Inspired by their years in Japan and California and their Scandinavian heritage, we updated this 1938 home with a earthy palette and clean lines. Rift-cut white oak cabinetry, white quartz counters and a soft green tile backsplash are balanced with details that reference the home's history. Classic light fixtures soften the modern elements. We created a new arched opening to the living room and removed the trim around other doorways to enlarge them and mimic original arched openings. Removing an entry closet and breakfast nook opened up the overall footprint and allowed for a functional work zone that includes great counter space on either side of the range, when they had none before.

Coastal Modern

Valletta Design Group

This is an example of a mid-sized transitional kitchen in San Diego with a drop-in sink, shaker cabinets, beige cabinets, quartzite benchtops, ceramic splashback, panelled appliances, light hardwood floors and brown floor.

Custom 72" Stainless Steel Undermount Sink in Mountain Home

Rachiele Custom Sinks

This expansive kitchen boasts two custom workstation stainless sinks with two tiers. Every sink we craft is designed with the owners via a zoom meeting that can last up to an hour or more. This ensures the sinks will be very efficient and ergonomically comfortable to use. Rachiele is the only national sink manufacturer where 100% of the sinks are custom designed and crafted.

Kitchen with Quartzite Benchtops and Quartz 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!