Category: Kitchens

Just because you don’t live on a farm doesn’t mean you can’t have a farmhouse kitchen. This quaint style gives your kitchen a comfortable feel that’s warm and welcoming. With the kitchen being the heart of the home, this is the perfect aesthetic for your family home. You don’t have to go all out. With the right pieces, you can create a farmhouse feel that’s also authentic to your house’s architecture.

These farmhouse kitchen ideas will help you turn your plain suburban kitchen into one that’s simple yet comfortable.

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1. Creative Wordplay in Farmhouse Decor

Enhance your farmhouse kitchen’s charm with creative wordplay in decor. Consider adding wall art featuring family, love, or home-themed quotes to foster a cozy atmosphere and spark meaningful conversations. Additionally, vintage signage and food-related art can infuse a playful vibe, creating a perfect match for your farmhouse kitchen’s aesthetics. Choose words wisely to make your kitchen uniquely special and inviting.

2. Illuminate with Charming String Lights

String lights can transform your farmhouse kitchen into a welcoming haven. Hanging them above counters, along with weathered furniture and an open layout, infuses a timeless charm that combines vintage and modern aesthetics seamlessly.

For both practicality and style, consider incorporating string lights to elevate your kitchen’s rustic farmhouse appeal. Their warm and inviting glow adds a homely ambiance, making your kitchen a cozy retreat throughout the day.

3. Distressed Accents for Vintage Charm

For a farmhouse kitchen filled with warmth and character, consider incorporating distressed accents. Opt for weathered furniture that exudes vintage appeal, infusing your space with a timeless charm.

Repurposed wood can play a central role, from countertops to cabinets, maintaining the rustic look throughout. To complete the atmosphere, choose inviting colors like warm creams, cool whites, and natural browns, making your farmhouse kitchen a truly irresistible and cozy retreat.

4. Window Dressing for Farmhouse Elegance

To infuse your farmhouse kitchen with charm and warmth, consider dressing up your kitchen window with valance curtains or hanging plants. These window treatments add style and personality, enhancing the ambiance regardless of your kitchen’s size.

Placing them above your gathering table or cooking area creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for entertaining. Choose from simple solids, classic stripes, or elegant florals in various sizes and shapes to complete the farmhouse look in your home, effortlessly blending function with style.

5. Embrace Soft Earth Tones Gracefully

Infuse your farmhouse kitchen with the charm of days gone by by embracing soft earthy tones. Paint your walls with these soothing hues and add a touch of pastel sage green for a refreshing twist.

Maximize natural light with well-placed windows that provide beautiful views year-round. To complete the look, pair soft earth tones with wooden cabinetry, white marble countertops, and subtle tiling, creating a delightful French countryside ambiance in your own home.

6. Timeless Allure: White and Wood

White and wood are the classic elements that define a tranquil farmhouse kitchen. Consider white marble countertops for an ideal cooking surface and white cabinets for an organized look.

Infuse warmth with wooden accents like bar stools or chairs and extend your workspace with a wooden kitchen island. To enhance the charm, consider rustic finishes like exposed brick, which can transform your farmhouse kitchen into an inviting space for both cooking and entertaining.

7. Stamped Tiles: Rustic Chic Choice

Add a touch of rustic charm to your farmhouse kitchen with stamped tiles. Consider flooring that evokes the ambiance of rustic cabins and walls adorned with marble subway tiles for a bold statement. The beauty of this timeless style lies in its fusion of traditional elements, creating a fresh and unique look. To achieve this design, complement it with vintage-inspired furnishings and natural wood accents for a truly inviting farmhouse kitchen.

8. Chic Dinnerware Storage Solutions

Enhance your farmhouse kitchen’s appeal by investing in stylish dinnerware storage solutions. Consider adding a dinnerware shelf, mug rack, and glass cabinets to display unique dinner plates and create a sophisticated yet homey dining experience. Whether hosting an intimate dinner or entertaining friends and family, these storage options can make each meal feel special.

Fill your mug rack with mugs in your favorite colors, organize your silverware on the dinnerware shelf, and showcase fancy dinner plates in the glass cabinet when guests come over to create an inviting and delightful dining atmosphere.

9. Floating Shelves: Open Elegance

Enhance the charm of your farmhouse kitchen with floating wall shelves. These stylish additions offer both aesthetics and functionality. Use them to display rustic decor, store essential items, or exhibit your favorite dinnerware for a touch of country living.

Floating shelves not only elevate the overall look but also provide convenient storage for daily essentials. To achieve this design, select reclaimed wood or distressed finishes to complement your farmhouse theme, and ensure proper spacing to maintain a balanced and appealing arrangement.

10. Warmth Underfoot: Rug Runners

Incorporate a rug runner into your farmhouse kitchen to infuse warmth and personality. These rugs offer a cozy and inviting vibe while protecting your hardwood floors from wear and tear. Opt for a distressed-looking rug runner to strike a unique balance between rustic and modern design elements. To complement this addition, pair it with wooden furniture and natural textures, creating a harmonious farmhouse ambiance in your kitchen.

11. Diverse Island Seating Styles

Create a welcoming and diverse seating area in your farmhouse kitchen by incorporating a mix of rattan-style counters and wooden stools. This combination offers both sophistication and rustic charm, providing the ideal space for gatherings with family and friends.

To achieve this look, consider coordinating the seating with other design elements such as wooden cabinetry and natural textures for a seamlessly comfortable and homey atmosphere in your kitchen.

12. Polished Concrete Countertops Shine

Introduce an industrial-chic edge to your farmhouse kitchen by incorporating polished concrete countertops and modern design elements. This blend seamlessly combines rustic charm with urban sophistication.

Embrace the natural variations of polished concrete to create a unique and personalized kitchen. Consider using polished concrete for countertops, shelving units, or even a cozy breakfast nook to make a bold statement. To complement this look, balance it with warm wood accents and vintage-inspired decor for a harmonious farmhouse ambiance with a contemporary twist.

13. Sleek Sophistication: Black Fixtures

Incorporate black fixtures into your farmhouse kitchen for a blend of charm and contemporary sophistication. A black faucet and pendant lights above the island create a sleek and stylish atmosphere.

This design balances modernity and rusticity, making it perfect for a unique cooking and entertaining space. To complement the look, pair black fixtures with white or natural wood elements for a classic yet contemporary farmhouse aesthetic that stands out.

14. Beveled Tiles Create Unique Accents

Enhance your farmhouse kitchen’s charm and uniqueness by incorporating beveled tiles. Choose classic white beveled tiles for a traditional touch or opt for bold-colored bevels to make a style statement.

The beveled edges of these tiles reflect natural light, making your kitchen feel more spacious and inviting. To complete this look, consider pairing beveled tiles with natural wood accents and vintage-inspired decor to create a cohesive farmhouse aesthetic that exudes character and dimension.

15. Dramatic Flair with Dark-Stained Wood

Achieve a captivating blend of rustic charm and modern sophistication by incorporating dark-stained wood elements in your farmhouse kitchen. With hickory wood cabinets, butcher block islands, and the occasional farmhouse sink, this design creates a piece of country living within your home.

Balance the dark accents with light countertops, backsplashes, and dishes to harness natural light and foster a warm and inviting atmosphere. To enhance this style, consider adding vintage-inspired decor and wrought-iron fixtures for a cohesive farmhouse look with a dramatic flair.

16. Ceiling Beams for Rustic Charm

Step into a farmhouse kitchen adorned with ceiling beams, and you’ll immerse yourself in a sensory delight. Natural light dances on the pale timbers, casting a warm ambiance that complements well-aged furniture and handcrafted décor.

The presence of ceiling beams not only infuses rustic charm but also elevates visual appeal, making it an ideal canvas for your culinary creativity. To achieve this look, consider integrating wooden ceiling beams, and pair them with distressed furnishings and carefully curated handmade items for an inviting farmhouse feel.

17. Pendant Lights Illuminate Gracefully

Experience the warmth of a well-lit farmhouse kitchen, where pendant lights above the island and generous sink-side windows bathe every corner in natural radiance. On even the cloudiest days, these pendant lights create an inviting atmosphere for your morning breakfast rituals and baking endeavors.

Positioned above the kitchen island, these lights cast a soft, golden glow, elevating the room’s welcoming aura. They also establish a captivating centerpiece, drawing the eye and making it an ideal spot for family and friends to gather around, envisioning pancakes sizzling on the stovetop and the aroma of cinnamon and almond filling the air. To recreate this inviting ambiance, consider incorporating pendant lights above your kitchen island and maximizing natural light with well-placed windows.

18. Books as Farmhouse Room Decor

Make your kitchen island the heart of your farmhouse kitchen by incorporating a bookshelf. This clever addition not only provides convenient access to your favorite cookbooks but also infuses character into your cooking space. For a cohesive look, consider organizing your cookbooks by color or theme.

This design choice blends functionality with aesthetics, allowing you to showcase your culinary passion without compromising storage for essential kitchen tools and ingredients. To recreate this charming setup, opt for a kitchen island with a built-in bookshelf or add one to your existing island.

19. Nature’s Touch: More Natural Elements

Creating the ideal farmhouse kitchen requires careful consideration, and one effective way to achieve it is by incorporating natural elements such as fresh plants and flowers. These elements can infuse your kitchen with a rustic, homey ambiance that exudes warmth and charm. The beauty of using natural elements is their adaptability; you can easily update them with each changing season, ensuring a consistently fresh and inspiring kitchen atmosphere.

To achieve this look, consider placing potted herbs on your windowsill, adorning your dining table with seasonal floral arrangements, or hanging eucalyptus branches to complement the farmhouse aesthetic. These additions harmonize beautifully with other farmhouse design elements, contributing to the overall cozy and inviting vibe of your kitchen.

20. Shiplap Walls Define Farmhouse Charm

White shiplap walls can define the quintessential farmhouse charm in your kitchen. These walls create a versatile canvas for your culinary haven. To enhance this aesthetic, pair them with light wood elements like floors, countertops, and furniture.

Whether you’re gathering around a custom-made wood table or preparing dishes in white-painted cabinets, your farmhouse kitchen will become a warm and welcoming space that draws loved ones together. To achieve this look, consider installing shiplap walls and coordinating the color scheme with complementary wooden accents, creating a harmonious farmhouse atmosphere.

21. Rustic Appeal: Red Brick Flooring

Red brick flooring is a key element in infusing rustic charm into your farmhouse kitchen. Its classic and timeless appearance sets the stage for a warm and inviting culinary space. Beyond aesthetics, red brick flooring also contributes to temperature regulation and simplifies clean-up.

Whether you host large family gatherings or intimate dinners with friends, red brick flooring complements your farmhouse style while creating an ambiance that enhances the atmosphere of any gathering. To achieve this look, consider installing red brick flooring and pairing it with wooden accents, creating a cohesive farmhouse design that combines both beauty and practicality.

22. Classic Choice: The Belfast Sink

Incorporating a Belfast sink into your farmhouse kitchen is a classic choice that enhances both efficiency and charm. This type of sink not only adds an old-world style to your home but also proves highly practical, especially for busy family kitchens.

With its deep bowl and ample surface area, the Belfast sink offers plenty of room for washing large pots and dishes, making it a perfect fit for the demands of home-cooked meals. To achieve this design, consider installing a Belfast sink and pairing it with complementary fixtures and cabinetry that accentuate its timeless appeal while ensuring a seamless integration into your farmhouse kitchen.

23. Seasonal Updates for Fresh Farmhouse

Adding seasonal decor to your farmhouse kitchen is a delightful way to infuse the outdoors into your home. Farmhouse kitchens, with their rustic charm and welcoming ambiance, provide the perfect backdrop for seasonal accents. In the autumn, adorn your countertops with small gourds or pumpkins, hang dried corn husks, and incorporate natural elements like grasses and twigs for a cozy feel.

During the winter, brighten up your kitchen with festive garlands of evergreens, berry clusters, and candles placed on windowsills alongside fresh flowers. Don’t limit yourself to just the seasons; year-round touches like quilts draped over chairs can evoke a sense of togetherness around your farmhouse table. To achieve this design, seamlessly integrate seasonal decor elements into your kitchen, making sure they complement your existing farmhouse style.

The kitchen is the most important room in the house for most families. It has to be a clean and welcoming space, and preferably, free of clutter.

But every day, manufacturers come up with cool kitchen gadgets and appliances that are a must-have, so we end up adding more and more stuff to the kitchen, without adding the corresponding storage space.

The result is a cluttered kitchen, with appliances and utensils lying everywhere! No more of that, we say! In this post, we will give you a few ideas, to make your life easier and your kitchen a functional and organized space. There might even be some extra room for a little more of those cool gadgets…

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1. Utilize Vertical Spaces With a Floating Cabinet

To maximize hidden storage space, consider utilizing vertical spaces – adding tiers of floating shelves is an easy way to create more room in your cabinets.

2. Organize Food In Identical Containers For A Clean Look

Are you looking for creative ways to organize your kitchen cabinets? Try using identical containers and baskets for a neat and clean look.

Additionally, labeling the items in each basket can help eliminate any confusion about what goes where.

3. Organize Everyday Herbs & Spices In Lazy Susans

For herbs and spices, make use of wall-mounted magnetic racks or invest in shelf dividers that will allow you to organize them into neat little pockets for easy access.

Another great organizational tool is the lazy susan – rotate multiple herbs and spices together on this device for a classic, organized solution.

Finally, look for shallow drawers with lid holders so that any jars that don’t fit onto the shelves can be neatly stored away.

4. Transparent Drawers For Easy Access

Incorporating transparent drawers and shelves will make organizing easier since you can see everything in an instant. Organize pots, pans, and other heavier cookware on lower shelves for easy access. Place lighter items like dinner plates in upper cabinets.

5. Add Labels To Containers

Use labeled, clear containers to store and organize different items in your kitchen cabinets. This method enhances organization by making contents easily visible and identifiable, keeping cabinets neat and tidy.

6. Color Coordinate Dinnerware & Cookware

Organize your kitchen cabinets by color coordinating your dinnerware and cookware. This visual sorting method not only makes items easier to find but also adds an aesthetically pleasing and orderly appearance to your cabinet space.

7. Install Pull-Out Organizers

Incorporate pull-out organizer and retractable cutting boards in your kitchen cabinets to efficiently store pans, spices, and utensils. These solutions maximize space and keep essentials easily accessible.

8. Categorize Your Pantry For Easy Navigating

Categorizing pantry items according to types such as seasonings, canned goods, and snacks will make it easier for you to navigate for what you need quickly.

9. Organize Dinnerware & Cookware With Wire Racks

A great idea to organize the cabinets is to utilize wire racks to keep pans, lids, and other items organized on their side instead of stacked flat inside.

10. Get A Modular Shelf For Easy Adjusting

Utilize a modular shelf system in your kitchen cabinets to tailor storage space to your needs. This flexible solution allows for easy reorganization of items like spices and non-perishables in clear drawers and containers, enhancing visibility and reducing clutter for improved kitchen efficiency.

11. Add Dividers To Drawers

Smart drawers that come with dividers are perfect for food storage and are great for separating utensils like whisks and tongs.

12. Opt For Glass Cabinetry To Showcase Pretty Dinnerware

These glass-doored cabinets allow you to easily see what you need and access your goods with greater ease – making meal and snack preparation a breeze!

Such glass cabinetry also adds a more polished aesthetic to the room, while also letting you show off collectible dinnerware and glassware.

13. Emulate Drawers With Plastic Organizers

Implement plastic bins and shelving units in your kitchen cabinets to mimic drawers, enhancing visibility and organization for storing food, dishes, and utensils. Label items that don’t fit in these organizers to maintain an orderly kitchen and simplify meal preparation.

14. Hide Snacks In Secret Camouflage Shelves

Incorporate camouflage shelves in your kitchen to discreetly store snacks and items, using baskets and boxes for an aesthetically pleasing look. Consider adding a thin, hidden pull-out shelf behind existing cabinets for extra storage without occupying much space. For a modern touch, install handleless cabinet doors.

15. Attach a Herb Shelf to The Pantry Door

For those looking to get creative with their kitchen cabinet organization, a herb shelf attached to the pantry door is a great place to start. This simple and accessible solution will allow you to let your herb garden flourish in style and give your pantry an on-trend rustic feel.

The backsplash is essential in any kitchen. It can protect the walls from grease, are easy to clean, and can be a design piece.

In this post, we will give you some backsplash ideas, for you to make your kitchen unique!

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1. Discover Classic Subway Tiles and Faux Bricks

Brick walls are timeless. The subway tiles are a classic and go with absolutely everything!

Whether you have a modern style kitchen, with white cabinets and marble countertops, or if you prefer a rustic style with butcher blocks, subway tiles or faux bricks are a great option, and the white color does not interfere with any other patterns you choose for your kitchen.

2. Elevate Your Style with Elegant Glass Backsplashes

Glass tile is sophisticated, very elegant, and gives your kitchen an ultra-modern style. You can use led lights in different colors for a futuristic vibe. This type of backsplash is ideal for a clean, minimalist design.

There are other ways to explore glass cladding: you can select an image and have it printed in adhesive wallpaper, and apply it onto white tiles or glass, to make it a feature wall.  Such details make your décor exclusive and very sophisticated.

Note that the white backsplash wall goes perfectly with modern, colored cabinets, and matches marble or quartz countertops, without drawing attention to the walls.

All-white kitchens are a great solution if you have a small open floor plan, and don’t want to draw too much attention to the kitchen space. You may choose to have accent pieces in the living room instead, keeping the kitchen basic and yet elegant.

3. Choose a Herringbone or Chevron Pattern for Dynamic Appeal

Herringbone and chevron pattern tiles are very fashionable, for either floor, bathroom, or kitchen tiles. If you’re looking for an interesting design, maybe this is the way to go!

For a highly refined look, think of a marble backsplash!

You can extend your marble countertop to the backsplash in one accent wall, or half wall, to make it a focal point in the design.

4. Upgrade with Luxurious Marble Backsplash

Marble is always an elegant option. It is timeless, and perfect for backsplash, kitchen islands, and countertops. Maintenance is not difficult, as long as you take some precautions: coffee, soda, tea, and wine penetrate the pores of the stone, leaving a stain and often etching the surface. Be extra careful with any food or beverage that contains citrus or citric acid.

You can keep your marble countertops clean and sparkling by wiping up cooking and spills immediately and applying cleaners made for marble.

Mild dish soap and water in a spray bottle are also a good option to maintain your marble countertop clean and free of stains, but avoid using general household or bathroom cleaners that contain chlorine.

5. Embrace Simplicity with Minimalist White Backsplash

White finishes can be explored in different ways for a minimalist, clean style. Plain white finishes don’t necessarily mean boring… You can apply black grout to your subway tiles, to give it an interesting look. 

Also consider shaker cabinets for a minimalist look. They are timeless and their simple and functional design never gets old.

6. Explore Vibrant Mosaic Backsplashes

Mosaic tile can be the accent piece in your dream kitchen. There are countless combinations possible, making this design option extremely versatile.

Mosaic tiles can be made from marble, travertine, glass, metal, porcelain, ceramic, and more.

7. Get Creative with Unique Tile Patterns and Contrasting Designs

There are several options for tile patterns. The herringbone pattern is among the most popular ones. 

You can create your own design and make it interesting, by combining a few different color tiles and creating your own pattern. Using a contrasting grout is also a good option.

Another possibility is to make an accent wall with a pattern different from the rest of the kitchen tile. Faux brick tiles can be laid horizontally or vertically, and you can mix and match with different color tiles, for a pop of color and an exclusive design.

8. Add Rustic Charm with Shiplap Backsplash

Shiplap paneling is very trendy nowadays! It is a versatile, easy-to-install option, which can be painted to match your kitchen design.

Shiplap boards are generally used for barns and sheds but have become a very popular design option, especially considering that it is a very affordable material,  less expensive than most backsplash tiles.

Shiplap backsplash can be applied horizontally, but also vertically, to add interest to the walls and give the kitchen a farmhouse style. Any kitchen remodeling is costly and takes up time, so maybe shiplap is the ideal option for practicality and cost-effectiveness.

9. Opt for Chic Square Tiles for a Modern Twist

4×4 square tiles are quite traditional, and you will find them in older houses since they were quite popular in the past!

But you can give square tiles a modern and edgy look, by using colored grout.

Another possibility is to apply them in a diagonal pattern. This will make your tiles look bigger, and the room feels larger.

10. Reinvent Your Space with Stylish Subway Tile Backsplashes

Subway tiles are back in fashion, and no matter your kitchen design, subway tiles are a safe bet. Inspired by the New York subway stations, they have been on the rise since the early 1900s and are still trendy.

Their simple, rectangular shape offers symmetry and balance, while, at the same time, allows for your creativity to run wild, by adding colored grout and bold colors to your kitchen design.

Subway tiles are normally laid horizontally, but they can be laid out in nontraditional manners, such as the herringbone design pattern, or vertically. Subway tiles are an affordable option, especially compared to other materials on the market, like stones or glass. They come in a great variety of colors and textures, so the options are countless.

11. Choose the Perfect Textured Tiles for a Dynamic Kitchen Design

A textured wall is a statement piece by itself. Textured tiles add interest to the room, by having a 3D quality. It creates a sense of movement that adds dimension to your kitchen.

If you are remodeling your kitchen, take the time to choose the perfect textured tile for your design, since they come in a wide variety of materials, colors, shapes, and patterns.

The kitchen is perhaps the most important room in the house. It’s where families gather for meals, snacks, or a simple cup of coffee with a nice chat. An open floor plan is ideal if you do not want to be isolated from the family while cooking.

But even if your kitchen is a separate room, you can make it cozy and very functional with a kitchen island with seating, so that it will function as a dining table, breakfast bar, and prep space. In this article, we will give you plenty of design ideas for you to have your dream kitchen!

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1. Stylish Bar Stool Designs

Your kitchen island can be a showpiece, and still, be very functional for seating and storage. The height of the island will determine the type of seating.

Source: @alexandralouisewu via Instagram

The kitchen island standard height is 36 inches, but if you opt for a bar stool design, then your island should be 42 inches high. 

The stools can set the tone of the design: from rustic to casual, with adjustable height or swivel seat, to give it an informal look. There are numerous stool options for all tastes and styles.

2. Chic Breakfast Bar Concepts

The breakfast bar design is ideal for bar stool seating.

But in order to allow for comfortable seating space, you will have to increase the width of your island countertop, from the standard 24 inches to a minimum of 30 inches wide, so that there is enough countertop space to have meals or do homework.

3. Contemporary Island Styles

If you want an island with seating, consider the space around the island. You need circulation space and enough room to open appliances and stand in front of them.

So, you must have at least 42 inches between your island and the appliances.

Once you got the measures right, it’s time to think about finishes. Quartz countertops are very modern, contemporary, and easy to maintain. They do not stain like marble and there are many options of colors and patterns.

4. Innovative End Seating Solutions

You can have either an island or a peninsula, that still doubles as prep and storage space and seating area. 

If you prefer chairs instead of bar stools, you can have a standard table height island (30 inches), that also functions as a dining table.

5. Farmhouse-Inspired Islands

The island can be the accent piece in your kitchen, with a pop of color that stands out.

In this case, you can go bold with the island color, and choose quartz or marble countertops. Butcher block counters are also a good call.

6. Industrial Seating Options

If you want a modern and timeless style kitchen, maybe industrial is the way to go. In case you have a small space, consider using the island not only for seating, but also to incorporate a stovetop or a faucet.

In case you incorporate a stovetop, make sure there’s a distance between the stovetop and the seating area so that there’s enough room to cook and avoid accidents, especially when there are children in the house.

A practical and modern solution for exhaust fans is a retractable downdraft exhaust built into the kitchen island. You can raise the exhaust fan through your countertop while cooking, instead of having a heavy and awkward-looking ceiling exhaust fan permanently hanging over the island. 

Another possibility is to incorporate a faucet on the island. There are many modern and stylish faucets in the market, that can be a centerpiece in your kitchen. Consider installing a dishwasher under the island next to the faucet, to maximize your space and make it ultra functional.

7. Modern Island Seating Ideas

In modern design kitchens, you can mix finishes and transform a simple kitchen island into a statement piece.

Consider using quartz for the prep area and wood for the seating area for a bit of contrast, or a sleek white countertop with butcher block counter. These types of variations in finishes make your kitchen stand out from the ordinary ones.

8. Cozy Nook Arrangements

Nothing makes a cozy space like breakfast nooks.

A pleasant seating area surrounded by countertops, with plenty of room for storage.

See more kitchen nook ideas here.

9. Rustic Island Designs

Go wild with a bold, sophisticated design. You can give it a burst of color and style by using tiles with modern patterns around the island, and wood, stainless steel, or stone countertops. Pending lights and sconces are a must-have.

Reclaimed wood is a great option if you want a rustic island. You can use a wide wooden plank countertop with a beadboard siding, to make your island stand out with a unique style.

See more rustic kitchen ideas here.

10. Space-Saving Small Islands

The right design allows you to add an island even in small spaces. If you need seating room, keep in mind that comfortable seating requires a minimum 24-inch width, so that people do not sit on top of each other.

There are several options to choose from in case you do not want a custom-made island. Kitchen carts are ideal for tiny places. If you have a small kitchen, consider an island with shelves and cabinets to increase your storage space.

A full kitchen renovation may be outside of many people’s budgets. Yet you don’t need to buy brand new cabinetry to give your kitchen a much-needed upgrade.

Painted cabinets are a DIY-friendly way to freshen up your home’s interior without spending a fortune. Along with bringing new life to your kitchen design, paint can hide damage and imperfections seen in many older cabinets.

Of course, not all color palettes are created equal. Keep reading for the best kitchen cabinet color ideas to use in your home!

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1. Black

Many amateur designers are terrified of black paint. But the world of interior decor is becoming more and more open to and appreciative of this dramatic color!

Black cabinetry contrasts beautifully against lighter walls, tile, and flooring. You can pair this kitchen cabinet color with both black and stainless steel appliances for a modern look.

For a softer take on this trend, skip the solid black paint in favor of an uber-dark wood stain. The little bit of wood grain that will peek through the color will add some much-needed warmth to your kitchen design.

2. Blue

In terms of interior design, blue is practically a neutral. This is a wonderful jumping-off point for anyone looking to add a bit of color to their kitchen cabinets.

Blue looks particularly striking when paired with white kitchen subway tile and gold accents. Or with a wood countertop for a more organic aesthetic.

As with any color, selecting the exact right shade of blue is the secret to kitchen cabinets that look straight out of a design magazine or Instagram post! Experiment with different undertones and saturation levels to find the perfect shade for your home.

3. Bold Color

One of the best techniques for making bold kitchen cabinets really pop is to contrast them with another bright color elsewhere in the space.

Some kitchen designers employ vibrant backsplash tiles. Others invest in colorful appliances or light fixtures. If you’re feeling particularly brave, you can also use multiple kitchen cabinet colors.

We love seeing homeowners take creative risks when it comes to color ideas. But remember that you can create a bold palette using pastels and borderline neutrals, as well!

4. Dark

After years of light shades dominating the market, contemporary design has finally embraced the use of dark and moody colors in everyday decor. And one of our favorite places to see this trend is in the kitchen!

The figurative beauty of these kitchen cabinet colors is that they all share the same general aesthetic. Yet you can easily customize the exact shade to suit your personal taste and existing decor.

If you’re having trouble finding the perfect cabinet color, consider playing with the saturation. Adding a bit of gray to your base color can be even more effective than adding black.

5. Gray

Despite the sheer popularity of gray in interior design, gray kitchen cabinets are a relatively rare sight.

Gray kitchen cabinets are inherently warm and romantic. You can amplify these characteristics even further with gold or brass door hardware.

One thing to keep in mind is gray’s tendency to lean cold — cool-toned lighting will exacerbate this. Incorporate natural wood and greenery in your kitchen design to counteract these undertones.

6. Light

Light cabinets can make a kitchen feel brighter and more spacious. Just remember that a white kitchen is far from the only option available.

Pastels are definitely having a moment in the world of interior design. Don’t let preconceptions fool you… these subdued colors are not just for nurseries and children’s rooms!

Another exciting trend is the use of off-whites bearing undertones like blue, green, pink, and yellow. While these shades appear neutral from afar, they bring a much-needed hint of color to the space as a whole.

7. Metallic

The average kitchen is no stranger to metallic finishes in the forms of appliances, lighting, and fixtures. So why not take that concept a step further with a set of metallic cabinet doors?

This kitchen cabinet color idea performs best in a space decorated with industrial or minimalist elements. You’ll definitely want to opt for streamlined door pulls (or no cabinet hardware at all).

Since an entire kitchen outfitted with metallic cabinets can look a bit sterile, consider incorporating other finishes as well. Light wood paneling is one of our personal favorite companions for this trend.

8. Neutral

Often when we hear the term neutral the first things to come to mind are beige and gray. But neutral paint colors make up a rainbow all of their own.

A perfect example right now is muted sage green. This color is extremely popular in kitchen design almost exclusively because it goes with almost everything.

Neutral kitchen cabinets are ideal for anyone who likes to change up their home decor with the seasons. You can easily add accents of any color without worrying about your cabinet doors clashing!

9. Two Tone

Two-toned cabinets are growing increasingly common in contemporary kitchen design.

If choosing one bright color for your kitchen cabinets sounds daunting, choosing two might feel like a waking nightmare. But it shouldn’t!

This technique not only lets you experiment with a broader color palette but can actually make a small kitchen feel larger. For this effect, be sure to use the lighter of the two kitchen cabinet colors on your upper cabinetry.

10. White

While interior design is all about expressing creativity via your living space, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to tried and true color ideas. In this case, we’re talking about white cabinetry.

White kitchen cabinets are undeniably clean-looking and incredibly versatile. They do, however, tend to look best alongside other light colors.

Details like your cabinet hardware may eventually go out of style. But your coat of white paint certainly won’t.

The ideal kitchen must be as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing. So the last thing you want is to lose sight of culinary practicality for the sake of trendy decor.

A kitchen designed with a white color palette can easily bridge the gap between form and function. And, thanks to the simple color scheme, it’s unlikely to go out of style anytime soon.

Contrary to what you might believe, white kitchen decor is not inherently boring or unoriginal. Keep reading for our favorite white kitchen ideas and how to implement them yourself!

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1. Install White Beveled Tiles

White beveled tiles provide a clean, crisp look that reflects light beautifully, making your kitchen appear brighter and more spacious. Their subtle 3D shape adds depth and interest to your backsplash, creating a dynamic yet sophisticated backdrop for cooking and entertaining.

2. Use One Shade of Color for Accent

Selecting a single accent color allows for a cohesive, striking contrast against the white kitchen backdrop. This approach creates a bold statement, drawing attention to specific areas like open shelving or a unique piece of art, giving your kitchen a custom-designed feel.

3. Add Monochromatic Window Blinds

Implementing monochromatic window blinds offers a sleek, modern touch that complements the minimalist aesthetic of a white kitchen. Choose a shade that matches the tones of your walls or cabinetry for a seamless look, which also aids in controlling natural light and privacy with style.

4. Contrast With Gold Fixtures

Introducing gold fixtures into a white kitchen instantly adds a touch of luxury and warmth. This metallic contrast breaks the monotony of white, offering a chic and timeless appeal. Gold fixtures like cabinet handles, faucets, and light fittings act as jewelry for your kitchen, catching the eye and elevating the overall design.

5. Choose Black Fixtures

Utilizing black fixtures in a white kitchen creates a bold, contemporary contrast. This color pairing is striking and sophisticated, offering visual interest and a grounding effect. Black cabinet handles, faucets, and lighting fixtures can serve as focal points, drawing the eye and adding character.

6. Marble Countertop for an Elegant Look

A marble countertop is a classic choice for achieving elegance in a white kitchen. Its natural veining adds texture and depth, while its cool surface is ideal for pastry and baking tasks. Marble’s timeless appeal pairs well with both traditional and modern design elements.

7. Use an Area Rug

Adding an area rug in your white kitchen introduces color, texture, and comfort underfoot. It’s an excellent way to define specific zones within an open-plan space and can tie together different elements of your kitchen decor. Choose a rug that’s easy to clean yet stylish to maintain practicality.

8. LED Strip Lighting

LED strip lighting is a modern and efficient way to brighten your kitchen. Install them under cabinets or along toe kicks for subtle, ambient lighting that enhances visibility and adds a futuristic touch. These lights are energy-efficient and can be adjusted for color and brightness, catering to different moods and tasks.

9. Install Wood Tile Flooring

Wood tile flooring in a white kitchen strikes a balance between rustic charm and modern durability. It provides the warm look of hardwood while offering the easy maintenance and moisture resistance of tiles, making it ideal for busy kitchens.

10. Go for Polished Beige Marble Flooring

Polished marble flooring in a white kitchen exudes luxury and brightness. Its reflective surface maximizes natural light, giving your space a grand and airy feel. This type of flooring is perfect for those seeking a high-end, sophisticated kitchen aesthetic.

11. Install Statement Pendant Lighting

Statement pendant lighting can serve as the centerpiece of your white kitchen. Choose designs that reflect your personal style, whether it’s industrial, modern, or classic. These fixtures not only provide essential lighting but also add artistic flair to your space.

12. Apron Sink for Farmhouse Kitchens

An apron sink is a perfect fit for a farmhouse-style white kitchen. Its deep basin is practical for large dishes, and the exposed front adds a touch of rustic charm. This style of sink blends functionality with aesthetics, making it a focal point in your kitchen design.

13. Complement With Rustic Wood Elements

Introducing rustic wood elements into a white kitchen adds warmth and texture. Consider open wooden shelving, a reclaimed wood island, or wooden beams on the ceiling. These elements bring a cozy, lived-in feel to the modernity of a white kitchen.

14. White Marble Flooring

White marble flooring in a kitchen is the epitome of elegance and simplicity. Its natural veining adds depth and interest, creating a luxurious foundation that complements the white palette. This choice is ideal for those who appreciate a clean, seamless look with a touch of nature.

15. Grey & White Kitchen

A grey and white kitchen palette offers a sophisticated, contemporary look. Grey cabinetry or walls provide a soft contrast to white, allowing for a design that’s visually calming yet striking. This color scheme is versatile and timeless, working well with both minimalistic and more detailed design approaches.

16. Letterbox Window For Well-Distributed Lighting

Incorporating a letterbox window in a white kitchen ensures well-distributed natural light throughout the space. This long, horizontal window design can be placed high on walls, allowing for privacy while bathing the kitchen in soft, even light, enhancing the airy feel of a white color scheme.

Remember when white appliances were popular?  Times were simpler then because everything looked good with white. If all else failed, you could simply leave your kitchen cabinets white and have a kitchen design that would look beautiful for decades. White cabinets never seem to go out of style, though the white appliances did.

Then there was the regular stainless-steel trend. This was nice until people realized that stainless steel showed every fingerprint and was a nightmare to keep clean.

This led to the most recent trend in kitchen appliances, black stainless steel. It’s sleek and modern with a more matte finish that is easier to maintain. Which leads us to the next dilemma; what color cabinets go with black stainless-steel appliances?

1. Natural Light Wood

Natural wood cabinets look fresh and beautiful because they feature the natural beauty of the wood’s grain while helping to keep your kitchen looking bright.

While wood isn’t technically a color, it’s one of the most popular choices, making it necessary to include it on a list of kitchen cabinet colors. The light hue of the wood balances beautifully with the ultra-dark coloring of the slate appliances.

The light ash or honey hues of the wood brightens up the GE appliances. This helps the black kitchen appliances from looking too dark and closing in your kitchen.

Try to space out your black appliances so that isn’t a wall of black from the dishwasher to the stove and the refrigerator. Spreading them out in your kitchen makes it easier to move about and balances the light and dark in the room.

 

2. Dark Oak

Dark oak cabinets have a rich brown color with deep chocolate hues. They look stunning with bright white or light grey granite countertops. Because these cabinets can be quite dark, the black appliances tend to bland right in, creating a uniform look to the appliances and cabinets. It’s a perfect example of when black and brown pair beautifully. However, because the counters and appliances can look quite dark, you’ll need to balance them out with lighter colors.

You can do this with the walls, floor, and countertop. It’s also helpful to have plenty of natural light coming in or artificial light to supplement with artificial light.

Many people think of traditional cabinet designs when you start talking about dark oak cabinets. They have raised panels with artful details. However, you can also have a modern kitchen with dark oak. Transform your cabinets with slab fronts where the dark oak wood grain continues from one cabinet door to the next. This creates a smooth and continuous front that extends the entire length of the cabinets.

 

3. Cherry

Elegant and high-end homes often have cherry wood cabinets. The wood has a rich color with a deep red undertone. They bring plenty of warmth and light into your kitchen. The rich luster of this wood can be hearty enough to stand up to black stainless steel appliances.

Balance this deep color combination with lighter colors for the floor, walls, and countertops. This creates a nice contrast that keeps the space feeling welcoming and not overly heavy. If you decide to have cherry cabinets, choose a more traditional design for your cabinets. Skip the slab front and shaker door and opt for more elegant doors with a raised panel design.

 

4. Red

Using the color red in the kitchen is common because it’s the color of life and energy. It also influences the way we feel because it makes people hungry. Using red for your kitchen cabinets incorporates this bold color in a unique way. Red is also a versatile color that you can use with various interior design themes. Use beadboard cabinet fronts and distress them a bit, and you have the perfect red rustic farmhouse cabinets. Use perfectly smooth and shiny red cabinets for a sleek and modern look.

Use simple red shaker cabinets for a contemporary take on your red cabinets. When pairing your red cabinets with black appliances, keep the decor simple to prevent your kitchen from getting overwhelming.

 

5. Pink

If red is too harsh and bold for your taste, consider something softer, like pink. A soft pink can look feminine and delicate. To keep the design more mature, limit the amount of pastel pink by taking a two-tone approach to the cabinets. Paint half of them pink and the other half either white or black. Then, accent it with black tiles for the backsplash.

Swap out the pastel pink for a deep magenta for an ultra-glamorous look. This bright and vibrant pink pairs beautifully with black and creates a feminine and glam design. You can use as little or as much pink as you want to suit your tastes.

 

6. White

White cabinets are clean and classic, explaining why they never go out of style. So it’s only natural that your white kitchen cabinets would look beautiful with your matte black appliances. It’s a simple color scheme that will make your kitchen look fresh and clean.

The black appliances help your kitchen from looking too blinding and bright with all white. The black breaks up the white and helps to define the space. To tie the look together, use black accents throughout the kitchen. This brings the appliances into a cohesive kitchen design. Use a crisp white like this paint from Nuvo with this approach. If it’s off-white or cream, the slight yellow tints will make your kitchen look aged and dull.

 

7. Yellow

Yellow can add a bright and cheery contrast to your kitchen. Be careful, though; the wrong yellow can make your kitchen look a bit like a bumblebee. A strong sunny yellow looks best in a farmhouse or modern kitchen.

For a more appealing kitchen design, choose a softer yellow. It will complement the appliance finish better and create a less bold contrast. Add touches of soft grey to the color palette, and you have a bright and friendly but not juvenile kitchen color palette that is perfect for a kitchen. You can then add more black elements to tie the black appliances in with the rest of the design.

 

8. Blue

The right shade of blue can look stunning with your black appliances. The key is choosing a shade of blue that contrasts with the black enough for there to be a clear definition between the black appliance color and the blue cabinet shade. This means not choosing a shade of blue that is too dark.

A soft pale blue, a deep royal blue or a dark navy blue like this are all good options. Finish out your kitchen’s color palette by adding white, cream, or grey. These colors will create a clean interior design and help prevent your kitchen from looking too depressing or dark.

For a bit of extra glamour, choose gold or silver hardware for the cabinets. Depending on your final goal, this can add to the warm or cool effect. If you decide on a soft or pale shade of blue, be careful with the strong contrast the black appliances will create. Add natural wood elements like this countertop to soften this look.

 

9. Black

It may seem counterintuitive, but black cabinets pair beautifully with black stainless steel appliances. The result is a monochromatic look that has built-in texture and variation. The dark cabinets have a different finish from the metal finish on the appliances to create subtle changes in texture and light. This uniform approach to interior design can make a space feel larger.

You could paint your traditional wood cabinets, but this won’t give you a modern look that this design really needs. The best cabinets for this look are smooth slab with low-profile hardware. This creates the smooth and uniform look necessary to make the appliances stand out. This means that the finish of your cabinets becomes more important.

Consider the finish on your appliances and choose one that is different for your cabinets. If your appliances have a satin finish, then perhaps use a flat finish on your cabinets. These two surfaces will reflect the light differently and create variations that will catch the eye. You can then complete the look with black slate flooring and sleek metal light fixtures.

 

10. Grey

Grey is the modern neutral, and it is a popular color choice for kitchens. You can change the energy by the shade of grey that you choose. A pale, barely-there grey is delicate and soft. It’s bright enough to reflect light. This makes it a perfect choice for your grey cabinets. You can then accent it with other varying shades of grey. Perhaps one with a slightly green undertone to turn it into a greige. Or a slightly blue undertone for a bluish-grey feel.

Try adding a more dramatic dark grey on the wall behind the light cabinets. It will give the illusion that your kitchen is bigger than it really is. Then the dark appliances add a nice contrast to the light cabinets, creating visual interest and preventing the space from becoming a bland wall of grey. This is a big advantage over traditional stainless steel that has a silver-grey look, which is too similar to the color grey.

 

11. Two-Tone

Modern kitchen design trends embrace color. You no longer have to choose just one. You could paint your kitchen island one color and your wall cabinets another. Or you can paint your lower cabinets a dark color and your upper cabinets a lighter color. This two-tone approach works well for your black stainless appliances because you can commit to a color that will make them stand out without having to paint your entire kitchen that color.

Perhaps you paint your kitchen island black to match your appliances, but then you keep your kitchen feeling light by painting the wall cabinets white. Or you paint the lower cabinets a bold blue and the upper cabinets white.

 

Colors to Avoid

While we have listed several colors that are quite beautiful, there are some colors that you should avoid. While black stainless steel seems like a neutral, and neutrals should go with anything, that isn’t the case. Avoid choosing muted and earthy colors. These don’t bring out the beauty of the black stainless steel, and tend to make everything look muddy and bland.

Mid-range colors are also not a great choice. They lack the necessary depth and vibrancy to bring out the luster and beauty of the appliances. It’s better to choose colors that are closer to the end of the spectrum, so either pale and pastel shades or deeply saturated and vibrant shades.

Love them or hate them, galley kitchens offer unmatched efficiency. So if you’re short on space, a galley kitchen floor plan is likely the best option.

Unfortunately, despite their sheer functionality, galley kitchens are often maligned among the design-conscious.

While it’s true that the unique size and shape require a different approach than your average open-concept kitchen, there’s no reason for a galley kitchen to be a curse upon your home’s aesthetic!

Keep reading for our top small galley kitchen ideas and how to implement them within your own culinary workspace.

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1. Free Up Storage With Wall Shelves & Cabinets

Even the most cramped galley kitchens can be transformed into beautiful, cozy spaces with thoughtful storage solutions. Installing floating wall shelves gives the illusion of more space while offering a spot to neatly organize cookware and dinnerware.

Mug racks and floating plant holders create additional room for decorations and essential pantry items with minimal space lost. With a few collection pieces, a small galley kitchen can become an inviting space to hang out, cook delicious meals, or grab breakfast on the go.

2. Create A Cozy Boho Kitchen

With its rattan furniture and Persian rug, a boho small galley kitchen creates a chic and cozy atmosphere. Fill the space with dried flowers to bring in color while giving off that subtle bohemian vibe. Keep the rattan furniture minimal to maintain a clutter-free look, but add bold style with vibrant wall hangings to make the room feel inviting.

Wooden cutting boards, open shelving and rattan woven baskets complete the look; achieve a soft and balanced contrast by combining light rattan against darker woods for an eclectic touch with a bold yet homey feel.

3. Keep It Minimal But Stylish

Go modern and minimalist with your small galley kitchen! Sleek minimalist cabinets keep everything tucked away, while a pristine white countertop allows any decor to pop.

Featuring efficient cabinets, sleek white countertops, and well-placed recessed lighting, this inviting kitchen area can transform even the most mundane dishes into something extraordinary. The perfect touch is recessed lighting which adds the right amount of glimmer to the room no matter whether you prefer the day or night look.

With space-saving storage solutions that streamline cooking and entertaining alike, it’s no wonder why a modern small galley kitchen is an essential part of any home.

4. Install Gold Fixtures

A small galley kitchen can be a charming and inviting living space, no matter how limited the square footage is. Add gold fixtures to catch the light and create an air of sophistication, then contrast these with an earthy interior – be it white counters, mahogany cabinets, or perhaps even a tiled backsplash.

Install bright spotlights in strategic positions for a modern touch and top off the look by opting for unique hardware that stands out from the crowd. With a few unexpectedly luxurious touches here and there, you’ll be left with your very own exquisite galley kitchen.

4. Make It French Countryhouse Style

Crafting the French country house interior of your dreams starts in the small galley kitchen! This quaint room can be transformed with white shiplap walls, shelves designed with storage in mind, and chic tile flooring. What could feel cramped and cluttered instead feels fresh and elegant when thoughtfully designed.

To complete the look, add a vase of fresh flowers to bring character and warmth to the room. With a little bit of creativity and ingenuity, you can create a French-inspired sanctuary within your small galley kitchen!

5. Opt For Sleek, Dark Walls

A small galley kitchen can be dreamy and creative, especially with dark walls and black fixtures that give the space a cozy and modern feel. The dark walls are perfectly complemented by wood countertops and cabinets, creating a natural contrast that invokes a sense of balance and unity in the kitchen.

With its contemporary style, a small galley kitchen is sure to leave you inspired for years to come.

6. Introduce Plants Into Your Kitchen

A small galley kitchen doesn’t need to be boring – potted plants are the perfect way to bring your space to life!

Hang macrame hangers from the ceiling and fill them with potted stock seedlings, ivy, or pothos for a boho look. Place smaller potted plants on windowsills, counters, or cupboards for a soft pop of color. Herbs can also be potted and placed around the kitchen – and you’ll have ingredients always at hand!

Elevate your potted plant display by creating your own vertical herb wall – it looks simply gorgeous while taking up barely any room in the galley kitchen. Bring some green friends into your space today and enjoy watching your small galley kitchen come alive!

7. Keep It Warm With A Rustic Interior

A rustic small galley kitchen can be a welcoming space with the right touches. With white and wooden cabinets and shelves, you can bring some rustic charm while also providing plenty of storage space. Keeping the wood flooring light will also help to make the room a brighter place to hang out in.

Add some rustic accents, like antique utensils or galvanized pails as decor, and you’ll have plenty to entertain guests in your rustic small galley kitchen.

8. Install Black Fixtures

Bring a touch of modern nostalgia to your home with a small galley kitchen. Create an aesthetic that is at once classic and contemporary by combining sleek black fixtures with a traditional Belfast sink, set atop a dark wood countertop. This timeless combination will provide you with the perfect backdrop to create wonderful meals from the comfort of your own kitchen.

With these elements, your small galley kitchen can feel bold yet cozy at once—a unique space to manifest your creative dreams!

9. Make It Raw For An Industrial Look

Industrial small galley kitchens offer a unique blend of exposed brick walls and spot lights, making them perfect for tapping into a trendy loft apartment vibe. To add the finishing touches of ambiance, consider incorporating some copper fixtures.

A large industrial range is the perfect calling card to make this kitchen stand out from all the rest! Not only will it draw in the eye and make you feel like a top chef, but it will also leave your guests in awe of your creativity and style. Ready for an industrial kitchen adventure? Let this small galley be your gateway!

10. White With A Pop Of Color

A white small galley kitchen is the perfect spot to create culinary inspiration! With white walls, white cabinetry, and white appliances, this space exudes a light and airy atmosphere. A splash of color can be added to the room in interesting ways.

For example, hang a bold red clock on one of the white walls, or swap out an existing window treatment for solid orange window blinds. These subtle touches will bring life to the white kitchen without overwhelming it. Now you can start dreaming about all your future delicious meals!

11. Go For Wooden Countertops

Making use of a small galley kitchen can be an enjoyable experience – if done correctly. To maximize space, wooden countertops are ideal for providing adequate work surfaces without feeling cramped. When it comes to cupboards and cabinets, black or white colors are both sleek and contemporary options for creating the illusion of extra room and preventing the area from looking too cluttered.

A few sprigs of plants or herbs add a touch of green that livens up the entire kitchen, while also being helpful in boosting air quality indoors. Starting out with these enchanting features will no doubt give your galley kitchen true personality!

12. Feel Chic With Terrazzo Vinyl Flooring

A small galley kitchen is a charming space to work with. Even in limited square footage, there are plenty of ways to make the room feel bigger and brighter than it is. Terrazzo flooring could be used to give the room some life and additional character by reflecting light off its multifaceted surface.

To keep the overall aesthetic minimal, white cabinets help open up the space – and pairing it with terrazzo keeps it from feeling too sterile. To soften the look even further, consider adding some potted plants for greenery. A small galley kitchen can still have a big impact!

13. Add Dramatic Lighting

A small galley kitchen can be transformed into a showstopping space with some creative lighting! Drop lights at different heights give an interesting look and create unique shapes and shadows. For an even more dramatic effect, dark flooring should be used to really make the shadows stand out.

A small galley kitchen can still have all of the style and drama of any large kitchen simply through the use of drop lights and dark flooring, allowing you to get a truly breathtaking result in even the smallest of spaces.

14. Create An Accent With Beveled Tiles

There’s something about a small galley kitchen with countertop walls tiled in beveled tiles that is irrefutably charming. The interior usually painted white reflects the natural light pouring from the windows, adding a sparkle to the countertops as if they were little jewels scattered around.

The mixture of warm wood cabinets and countertops, with the cool glaze from the counter wall, is mesmerizing. Every inch of the kitchen oozes character and personality which adds to its charm and warmth.

Having beveled tile countertop walls create an eclectic aesthetic that can transform any small galley kitchen into a luxurious space.

15. Keep It Bright & White

An all-white galley kitchen often appears crisper and brighter than most kitchens, making it ideal for those looking to recreate that bright atmosphere in their own home. But with a little bit of creative flair and well-thought-out design, this small cozy kitchen can become much more. Installing wooden flooring gives the all-white interior a hint of warmth and richness while plants scattered around can inject some life into this little area.

Not only do plants regulate air quality, but they also add captivating color to the all-white environment. With all these elements combined, you will be able to create a bright small galley kitchen that brings out your personality in all its glory!

Adding a kitchen island is a great way to gain extra counter space and storage space in your kitchen. But perhaps an island’s greatest power is how it invariably becomes the preferred gathering spot for your family and friends.

Depending on what elements you include in your island design, it can serve as a cooking, cleaning, dining, and/or prep space. If you don’t want to commit to a full kitchen remodel, you can still enjoy some of the benefits of an island by purchasing a movable kitchen island. Check out our collection of best kitchen island ideas and you’ll likely find one that’s perfect for your home.

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1. Contemporary Kitchen Island Elegance

A contemporary kitchen benefits from a kitchen island that reflects modern kitchen design’s clean lines and surfaces. A pure white marble or quartz countertop is ideal in a contemporary kitchen, but darker marble or stainless steel work equally well. A grey or other neutral color palette allows your contemporary texture and design to stand out.

Even so, color is definitely at home in contemporary kitchen design. Try a clear glass countertop on a brightly painted minimalist kitchen island. Go with hot pink, bright turquoise, or another favorite color to create a dramatic rectangular kitchen island. A bold metal pendant light fixture completes the look.

2. Choosing the Perfect Countertop

Since counter space is one of the benefits of having a kitchen island, put some serious thought into the type of countertop you choose. Not only does the material matter, the design plays a big part in the overall appearance of your island. Waterfall countertops are currently popular, where the marble or quartz surface “falls” over the corners to extend to the floor in one smooth line.

A cantilevered countertop is one that creates bar seating beneath the surface. It doesn’t have legs supporting it. There may be no additional support required, or it may be supported by corbels or brackets beneath. Marble, granite, or butcher block countertops are good choices when cantilevering is desired.

3. DIY Kitchen Island Inspirations

If you’re a relatively good woodworker, a DIY kitchen island may be a fun project to tackle. When you do it yourself, you can save money by using reclaimed wood or countertops. Hundreds of DIY kitchen island idea plans can be found online, including this one that features an under-counter microwave, seating, storage, and a marble quartz countertop:

A portable kitchen island can also be a good DIY project for a smaller kitchen. This small kitchen island on wheels has a clean, basic style that will fit into any type of home decor:

4. Design Your Island to Complement Your Kitchen

For a cohesive appearance, design your kitchen island ideas around the existing countertops and materials already present in your kitchen. For example, if you have a white marble countertop, put that on the island, too. If you have brass fixtures on the kitchen sink, use brass drawer pulls on your island cabinetry.

This isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, however. Sometimes the best kitchen island ideas are those that completely contrast the rest of the room. Paint your kitchen island an entirely different color from the rest of your cabinetry. Any shade of blue adds a swath of peace and calm to your kitchen, while yellow or red amplify the vibration of a busy home kitchen.

5. Discover Farmhouse Kitchen Island Ideas

A farmhouse kitchen is a great space to include a wood island, especially if it’s covered in white shiplap. Remember that farmhouse design includes lots of white paired with warm wood and dark metal accents. Any combination of these features will result in a great farmhouse kitchen island design.

With farmhouse decor, it’s especially popular to make your island look like a freestanding piece of furniture. Adding short legs to the bottom of your kitchen island is a simple way to achieve this look. A wooden, copper or galvanized steel range hood adds farmhouse style over an island stove.

6. Illuminating Your Island: Lighting Choices

Adequate island lighting is a must, especially if it’s where you most frequently use your knives. Pendant lights are a popular choice over kitchen islands, and can be found in modern, rustic, whimsical, or traditional designs.

Long, narrow chandeliers are another good island lighting option. If your ceilings are low, recessed lighting might be the best way to illuminate your island. If you have a small kitchen or a movable kitchen island, you may not need additional lighting over the island.

7. Extend Your Kitchen Outdoor with Island Design

Outdoor kitchens benefit from islands, too. Counter space may be limited in an outdoor kitchen, making the addition of an island necessary to accomplish serious cooking tasks.

If you only have room on the patio for a dining table or an island, go with the kitchen island. Include a cantilevered surface and use bar stools for seating. Be sure to construct your outdoor island with weatherproofed materials, even if your outdoor kitchen is in a covered location.

8. Add Warmth with Rustic Kitchen Island

Since warm wood finishes are a mainstay of rustic decor, a butcher block island is the perfect kitchen island idea in a rustic space. Extend the island countertop to create a seating area and park rustic barstools beneath it.

Dark marble or granite countertop surfaces may also fit well into a rustic kitchen design. A concrete countertop is ideal if your rustic tastes trend toward an industrial vibe. Mix it up by incorporating concrete, stainless steel, and butcher block surfaces on your island.

9. Design the Perfect Seating Arrangement for Your Island

If you have a small kitchen that has no room for a breakfast nook or dining table, island seating can be a great alternative. Choose a bar stool design that works well with your decor and enjoy comfortable, casual dining.

Upholstered island seats are more comfortable than hard surfaces, but you should spray them with fabric protectant for easier cleaning. Choose a fabric that ties together the different colors and overall style your kitchen represents.

10. Incorporate a Sink into Your Kitchen Island

If your kitchen space allows it, a kitchen island can be a great place to include a sink. Whether it’s your main kitchen sink, an apron-front farmhouse sink, or a small secondary sink, it will multiply your island’s usefulness.

Of course, installing new plumbing will greatly increase the cost of adding a new kitchen island. However, you may find the expense well worth it in exchange for more useful work space. A secondary sink is also a great spot to introduce copper or another unique finish into your kitchen design.

11. Maximize Storage with Kitchen Islands

A need for more storage is a common reason homeowners add an island to their kitchen floor plan. Include as many shelves, drawers, and cabinets as the space allows. If extra storage space is your primary reason for adding a kitchen island, don’t waste space by relocating a microwave or other appliance there.

Hang a decorative pot rack over your island to further expand its storage options. A wine rack is a nice addition to the end of a permanent kitchen island. Have an electrician add outlets to your island so you can use your mixer and other small appliances in the same area they’re stored.

12. Embrace the Beauty of Traditional Kitchen Islands

Although kitchen islands haven’t always been part of American kitchen design, they still work well in traditional home interiors. The colors and details you use are what gives your island a traditional look and makes it seem that it was included in the original construction.

Marble, granite, and other natural stone surfaces are traditional countertop materials. If you love to bake, marble is a must even if you don’t want it covering the entire countertop. Marble stays cool longer than other materials, making it the perfect counter space surface for rolling out dough or fondant.