Modern Kitchen Design Ideas

There are so many options for a kitchen design that you may not know where to start. Whether it’s cabinets, appliances, flooring backsplash or fixtures there are endless possibilities. The key to a successful kitchen design is balancing function with aesthetics and making sure all the components work together visually and practically.

I am Jorge Fontan an architect in New York and owner of NYC-based architecture and design firm Fontan Architecture. At our office we work on many project types including residential interiors and kitchens. In this post I am going to review a few kitchen design ideas using some of our projects as examples.

 

Marble Slab Backsplash

The backsplash is an integral part of a kitchen design. One great way to have a luxurious-looking kitchen is to install a marble slab backsplash. Depending on the size, using a large slab reduces and potentially eliminates seams. Having a backsplash made of one piece of stone without a single grout line is much sleeker and more stunning. This is a great way to elevate a kitchen design with a classic and modern touch. 

 

Second Row of Upper Cabinets

If your kitchen has a high enough ceiling, consider adding a second row of wall cabinets. This practical addition offers a significant boost in storage space. While the upper cabinets may be slightly less accessible, they are perfect for storing items that aren’t needed on a daily basis, ensuring your kitchen remains clutter-free and organized. I always say there is no such thing as too much storage space. 

 

Panel Ready Appliances

Another critical decision for your kitchen is whether you want panel-ready appliances or would rather leave the appliance material exposed. Dishwashers and refrigerators often come with the option to install a panel matching the cabinets so that everything blends together seamlessly, creating a sleek and elegant look. The kitchen below showcases a panel-ready refrigerator with doors that perfectly match the kitchen, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

 

Pot Filler

A pot filler, a small luxury that adds a bit of convenience to the kitchen, it is an extra faucet installed in the backsplash behind the stove. This faucet fills a pot directly on the stove, eliminating the need to carry heavy pots filled with water across the kitchen. It’s a practical addition that can make your kitchen tasks a breeze.

 

Kitchen Counter Seating

An excellent place for extra seating in your kitchen is at the island. The countertop can overhang and create a convenient area to place stools.

 

Unique Fixtures

Fixtures play a critical role in a kitchen’s overall design. It’s crucial to coordinate all the fixtures to ensure they work together for use and design. While function is undoubtedly important, don’t overlook the impact of fixture design. Avoid treating the selection of fixtures as an afterthought, as it can significantly influence your kitchen’s aesthetic and functionality.

 

Wall Ovens

Wall ovens are excellent for kitchen designs because they do not require bending over. Wall ovens are very convenient and can add to the kitchen’s overall aesthetic.

 

Open Kitchen Design

Open floor plans make the space feel larger and allow greater connectivity between the kitchen and living or dining area. An open kitchen can be a centerpiece to a well-designed home.

 

Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands are convenient but also look great. There are a few decisions that need to be made when choosing a kitchen island:

• Appliances in the Island or not?
• Sink in the island, primary or secondary?
• Do you want seating at the island?
• Is the island one height or different elevations?
• Do you want a waterfall?
• Should the island match the rest of the kitchen or stand out?
• What size, depth, and length do you want your island to be? How much clearance do you want around the island?
• Are cabinets open to both sides or just one?

 

Kitchen Peninsula

An alternative to a kitchen island is a kitchen peninsula. You will have some of the same questions and concerns about a peninsula as you would about a kitchen island. We always start by looking at the layout to see what works best. There will be many different reasons you would go with one or the other.

 

Tile Backsplash

The kitchen backsplash protects your walls from water splashing from the sink or oil splattering from a frying pan. The backsplash can also double as a design feature. You want to decide if your backsplash should blend in or stand out. It can be a feature, or it can fade away. For example, a backsplash made of the exact same countertop material can create a seamless and understated look. On the other hand, a backsplash made of a contrasting material can add visually and become a focal point in your kitchen. We have another blog post you can reference if you want to read more about Backsplash Design.

 

Waterfall Countertop

Modern kitchens often have an island or a peninsula. On the side of a kitchen island or peninsula, you will see the side of the cabinet (unless you choose to cover it with something). When a slab material matches the countertop down the side it is called a countertop waterfall. This can often be done with a continuous or bookmatch stone, so the veining (if there is any) can be continuous. A countertop waterfall can add a bit of luxury and sophistication to your kitchen, as it creates a neater, uninterrupted detail. It can also help protect the side of the cabinet from spills making it a practical choice as well.

 

Pendant Lighting 

Pendant lighting can be a good option for an island or peninsula. You may not want to have a light hanging down, though, so if that is the case, go for something like recessed lighting. If you like a more decorative light, however, you can find a nice pendant that hangs down and lights up your surface, while also being part of the overall design.

 

Unique Finishes That Stand Out

Modern kitchens are often stark. There is nothing wrong with adding a little flare or contrast. Unique finishes can be a great addition to a contemporary kitchen design. Don’t be afraid to have a little fun with your choices. 

 

Under Cabinet Lighting

Under-cabinet lighting is really important. It will help you see your work surface better as task lighting, and it can add mood and design elegance to the kitchen.

 

Visor Hood

You should really consider installing a hood in your kitchen, but if you want it to be less noticeable, a visor hood may be the best choice. These types of hoods have a mechanism that goes in the cabinet above but is not visible. 

 

Farmhouse Sink With a Large Faucet

A farmhouse or apron sink is a sink that sticks out of the countertop in the front. These have a specific look if you want to mix things up. If you go with a farmhouse sink in an island or peninsula, you may want to put a large faucet for scale.

 

Drawer Microwave

A drawer microwave can go under the countertop to be more discreet. This looks much better than having the microwave hanging over the stove. 

 

Custom Details

Building a custom kitchen is the most luxurious and bespoke option you can get. It is the best way to achieve top quality and a personalized design just for you. 

 

Contact Fontan Architecture