Design ideas for a midcentury kitchen in DC Metro with an integrated sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium wood cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, linoleum floors, blue floor and grey benchtop.

Saucon Valley Classic

Jarrett Design

Design ideas for a large transitional l-shaped eat-in kitchen in Philadelphia with a farmhouse sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, panelled appliances, light hardwood floors, with island and grey benchtop.

Rustic Renovations

Ironwood Renovation LLC

Silver Gray Cabinets barnwood island salvaged lumber counter top
Large country l-shaped eat-in kitchen in Seattle with a farmhouse sink, flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and grey benchtop.

Modern Ranch Home

Destination Eichler, LLC

John Shum
Inspiration for a small midcentury l-shaped open plan kitchen in San Francisco with medium wood cabinets, soapstone benchtops, multi-coloured splashback, ceramic splashback, porcelain floors, white floor, a farmhouse sink, flat-panel cabinets, stainless steel appliances and with island.

Coastal White Kitchen

Dovetailed Kitchens

A wonderful shot of the farmhouse sink, soapstone counters and crisp white cabinets. The blue linen pillows and sea glass vases are perfect details for this nautical space.

Carlton Woods Kitchen

Vining Design Associates

Design ideas for a large traditional u-shaped open plan kitchen in Houston with with island, raised-panel cabinets, medium wood cabinets, soapstone benchtops, beige splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink and travertine floors.

English Country Accessible Kitchen

Cabinets by Design

Richards Photo
Large traditional open plan kitchen in San Diego with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, green cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, black appliances, ceramic floors and no island.

Sterling Kitchen and Dining

down2earth Interior Design, LLC.

It is not uncommon for down2earth interior design to be tasked with the challenge of combining an existing kitchen and dining room into one open space that is great for communal cooking and entertaining. But what happens when that request is only the beginning? In this kitchen, our clients had big dreams for their space that went well beyond opening up the plan and included flow, organization, a timeless aesthetic, and partnering with local vendors. Although the family wanted all the modern conveniences afforded them by a total kitchen renovation, they also wanted it to look timeless and fit in with the aesthetic of their 100 year old home. So all design decisions were made with an eye towards timelessness, from the profile of the cabinet doors, to the handmade backsplash tiles, to the choice of soapstone for countertops, which is a beautiful material that is naturally heat resistant. The soapstone was strategically positioned so that the most stunning veins would be on display across the island top and on the wall behind the cooktop. Even the green color of the cabinet, and the subtle green-greys of the trim were specifically chosen for their softness so they will not look stark or trendy in this classic home. To address issues of flow, the clients really analyzed how they cook, entertain, and eat. We went well beyond the typical “kitchen triangle” to make sure all the hot spots of the kitchen were in the most functional locations within the space. Once we located the “big moves” we really dug down into the details. Some noteworthy ones include a whole wall of deep pantries with pull outs so all food storage is in one place, knives stored in a drawer right over the cutting boards, trash located right behind the sink, and pots, pans, cookie sheets located right by the oven, and a pullout for the Kitchenaid mixer. There are also pullouts that serve as dedicated storage next to the oven for oils, spices, and utensils, and a microwave located in the island which will facilitate aging in place if that becomes an objective in the future. A broom and cleaning supply storage closet at the top of the basement stairs coordinates with the kitchen cabinets so it will look nice if on view, or it can be hidden behind barn doors that tuck just a bit behind the oven. Storage for platters and a bar are located near the dining room so they will be on hand for entertaining. As a couple deeply invested in their local community, it was important to the homeowners to work with as many local vendors as possible. From flooring to woodwork to tile to countertops, choosing the right materials to make this project come together was a real collaborative effort. Their close community connections also inspired these empty nesters to stay in their home and update it to their needs, rather than relocating. The space can now accommodate their growing family that might consist of children’s spouses, grandkids, and furry friends alike.

Blue Gray Kitchen - Old Tappan, NJ

Melanie Sferlazza Design

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional u-shaped separate kitchen in New York with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, grey cabinets, soapstone benchtops, multi-coloured splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, a peninsula, brown floor and black benchtop.

Garrison Ltd. Remodel

Wilson Lighting

Design ideas for a mid-sized transitional l-shaped separate kitchen in St Louis with a farmhouse sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, dark hardwood floors, brown floor and black benchtop.

Beautiful + Functional Family Kitchen

User

A key storage feature in this space is the large built in pantry. full walnut interior, finished with Rubio oil in a custom blend of grays. The desk area has multiple outlets for charging as well as lots of storage. This is the epicenter of the home. Pocket doors close it off and hide any 'work in progress'. Sliding ladder makes upper storage accessible. Photography by Eric Roth

West Falmouth Private Residence II - West Falmouth, MA

C.H. Newton Builders, Inc

Contemporary kitchen in Boston with recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback and medium hardwood floors.

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen and Home Bar

Leslie Hutchison Interiors, LLC

Photo of a large country l-shaped open plan kitchen in Chicago with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone benchtops, grey splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and black benchtop.

Mission Transition

Renovisions

This kitchen had not been renovated since the salt box colonial house was built in the 1960’s. The new owner felt it was time for a complete refresh with some traditional details and adding in the owner’s contemporary tastes. At initial observation, we determined the house had good bones; including high ceilings and abundant natural light from a double-hung window and three skylights overhead recently installed by our client. Mixing the homeowners desires required the skillful eyes of Cathy and Ed from Renovisions. The original kitchen had dark stained, worn cabinets, in-adequate lighting and a non-functional coat closet off the kitchen space. In order to achieve a true transitional look, Renovisions incorporated classic details with subtle, simple and cleaner line touches. For example, the backsplash mix of honed and polished 2” x 3” stone-look subway tile is outlined in brushed stainless steel strips creating an edgy feel, especially at the niche above the range. Removing the existing wall that shared the coat closet opened up the kitchen to allow adding an island for seating and entertaining guests. We chose natural maple, shaker style flat panel cabinetry with longer stainless steel pulls instead of knobs, keeping in line with the clients desire for a sleeker design. This kitchen had to be gutted to accommodate the new layout featuring an island with pull-out trash and recycling and deeper drawers for utensils. Spatial constraints were top of mind and incorporating a convection microwave above the slide-in range made the most sense. Our client was thrilled with the ability to bake, broil and microwave from GE’s advantium oven – how convenient! A custom pull-out cabinet was built for his extensive array of spices and oils. The sink base cabinet provides plenty of area for the large rectangular stainless steel sink, single-lever multi-sprayer faucet and matching filtered water dispenser faucet. The natural, yet sleek green soapstone countertop with distinct white veining created a dynamic visual and principal focal point for the now open space. While oak wood flooring existed in the entire first floor, as an added element of color and interest we installed multi-color slate-look porcelain tiles in the kitchen area. We also installed a fully programmable floor heating system for those chilly New England days. Overall, out client was thrilled with his Mission Transition.

Evergreen

Carlton Edwards

The interior was primarily a cosmetic renovation and also, kitchen renovation. So, the idea was to be very respectful of the original architectural details. With the kitchen, in particular, it was important to maximize function, space, and storage so every inch counted. The detailing was updated still respectful of the original architecture, but fresher approach. The appliances were rearranged to maximize functionality and incorporated in some space from an existing porch that had been enclosed. The floor is an ebony stain pine, and then I added a tall wainscot around the room to integrate with the cabinetry more.

New or Remodeled Kitchens

Laurie McDowell Interior Design

Minneapolis Interior Designer Under mount flat black sink and faucet, large window over sink , cabinets over sink in glass fronts and LED lighting on the interior, green glazed cabinets, eat in kitchen.

Renovated Kitchen

Mark Reilly Architecture

Bruce Damonte
Modern kitchen in San Francisco with a single-bowl sink, flat-panel cabinets, medium wood cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors and with island.

Farmhouse 2016

Knight Construction Design Inc.

Mid-sized country l-shaped open plan kitchen in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, panelled appliances, dark hardwood floors and with island.

Kitchens

Blue Mountain Kitchens

Inspiration for a large transitional u-shaped separate kitchen in Denver with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, soapstone benchtops, beige splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, dark hardwood floors, with island and brown floor.

Bespoke Kitchen

Vintage Renovation and Construction

This is an example of a mid-sized traditional u-shaped separate kitchen in DC Metro with a farmhouse sink, beaded inset cabinets, green cabinets, soapstone benchtops, beige splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, limestone floors, with island and brown floor.

Kitchen with Soapstone Benchtops and Ceramic Splashback 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!