Modern kitchen designs: 13 useful and practical ideas, top trends!

How to design a modern kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the home, the place where we gather with family and friends to cook, eat, and enjoy. That’s why the design of modern kitchens is important to create a cozy and personalized atmosphere.

How can we achieve this? The key is to get it right with decoration and a modern kitchen, but one that is useful. As cocinas santos suggests; we should favor words like flexibility, simplicity, ease of cooking and cleaning, practicality, etc.

Imagine a space where innovation, elegance, and comfort come together. Today, we’ll explain how to create modern and design kitchens step by step – let’s start!

1.- Functionality in Modern Kitchen Design

First, some examples and photos of modern kitchen designs where materials, color, and functionality work together…

The previous kitchen photos are to inspire us about the design of gastronomic spaces, but we must understand that decorating and conditioning requires technique… What makes a kitchen functional?

“The ideal kitchen should be spacious, very functional, and easy to clean” Chef Xavier Llanos

To take better advantage of the culinary space, we need to look at many details. Regardless of whether it’s large or small, irregular or square… What do you want the best kitchen for your home with the ideal space?

Today, we’ll explain step by step how to plan a design kitchen without leaving anything out…

(At the end, there are portals with interesting photographs to get some ideas)

2.- How to Distribute the Kitchen

The ideal is that it should be spacious, bright, and organized. Here’s where the experience of years of cooking designates as the Work Triangle and that many professionals apply when designing kitchens. It’s a coherent division of the kitchen according to its work zones.

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Better a well-distributed kitchen than one that shines. You’ll appreciate it over time!

For the triangle to function optimally, the sum of its 3 sides should not be greater than approximately 8 meters, and, separately, none should be less than 1.20 mts (to work), nor greater than 2.70 mts of distance.

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Regarding the most conventional kitchen typologies, visually, they would be the plans – schemes following their work zones when cooking and moving better (The points reflect the most habitual forms we move according to distribution):

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These movements with respect to the forms – habitual stays of the houses derive in the types of kitchen distributions most standard:

• Kitchens in the shape of U
• Kitchens in the shape of L
• Kitchens in a line
• Kitchens in parallel lines (Parallel fronts)
• Kitchens on an island

For planning, since it’s a broad topic, we’ve created a detailed article on OVACEN about types of kitchens, distribution, and measures from HERE. Now we know aspects of how to divide the space of our kitchen. Now… it’s time to make a sketch!

Tip: If we don’t make a small drawing with the measures of our kitchen… we’ll end up spending more money!

To take the measures of the project, we either make a sketch with a graph paper (Remember to measure the height) or we can use an internet program to draw.

Large surfaces, such as Ikea kitchens or Leroy Merlin, have programs, but you need to download them.

From HERE we have a planner an online kitchen designer very easy to use, practical, with multiple materials and 3D views.

⚧ Note: If it is a comprehensive reform, I advise you to see the tool at the end of the article to get an idea of the cost of the works in the interior design of kitchens. Now! useful tips according to the gastronomic space:

• A single line of cabinets, with light colors, is the solution in elongated kitchens. It achieves a “widening” effect, and besides, you can opt to place a bar or table on the opposite wall. A great example of design are these modular furniture that are totally transparent…

• A kitchen island is an option if the space is very large, it provides an extra surface for preparing food or using it as a breakfast area; with drawers or cabinets, you will gain space to store whatever you want.
• For a square shape, the best distribution is the “U” shape. It will be practical and functional. Whether in a large or small space, the goal will be to use one side as a countertop and bar area, and the other as a kitchen and sink.
• Distributing in an “L” shape is another option in reduced measures, achieving more working surface without overloading. You can place a dining table on the free wall.
• Sliding doors do not take up meters and allow you to take advantage of the wall for a piece of furniture.

Remembering that the measures for ergonomic kitchens can be the designated ones in the following infographic:

And if we delve deeper into the dimensions of planning to improve the usability of the space. We have the following image that can be very useful in the distribution of furniture, both high and low:

The previous infographic reflects usual measures in ergonomics and more used, but just like in the design and reform of bathrooms, it does not mean they are mandatory, they are tips.

Now that we have reached this point… It’s time for the furniture!

3.- Kitchen furniture

We’re going to give you a series of tips on how to place kitchen furniture from a utility perspective. The primary goal is to visually declutter the minimalist-style kitchen:

Imagine how you move and you’ll get it right with the furniture. A trick that never fails for designer kitchens and not losing their utility is to confirm the following:

• Corner extractable modules; you can also take advantage of any structural element (holes, protrusions…) with custom-made furniture, gaining a sense of spaciousness and comfort.
• A column with extractable shelves allows quick access to what we store in each one.
• A retractable cabinet inserted into the kitchen corner, making the most of the entire space, and can be easily managed.

• A large glass-fronted cabinet will be ideal for placing dishes and decorations, decorating the environment without needing to clean them constantly.
• A small cabinet above the counter and sink will allow you to have cups and glasses within reach.
• Tall drawers take advantage of the space for large accessories.
• Kitchen furniture can be easily transformed, from changing the pieces to painting them or applying a vinyl coating with excellent results.

Un example would be the following image:

• White color in cabinets is a good choice in modern kitchen designs, it combines well and, additionally, makes the space look larger. The most current styles propose wide wooden modules, combined with glazed glass, achieving a light and contemporary aesthetic.
• Equipping drawers with wide interior plastic or metal divisions will always keep utensils organized.

• Modules for recycling and cleaning are practical next to the sink.
• If the oven, dishwasher, or microwave is placed in a high module, it will be more comfortably accessible.

Kitchen furniture can be easily transformed, from changing the pieces to painting them or applying a vinyl imitation on the surface with excellent results. As a summary of suggestions:

Let’s continue creating the ideal kitchen… It’s time for colors!

4.- Kitchen Paint and Colors

Daring to change the color of a wall brings a radical change with very little money (Remember the article on how to paint a wall with good tricks). It will be ideal to choose a tone that highlights the qualities of the space and the furniture, and it shouldn’t be dark!

We remember a mobile app (HERE – Itunes Apple) that simply takes a photo of a room, and it tells you the colors used!

The kitchen orientation can help determine the convenience of one color or another. North-facing kitchens require warm and bright colors, while south-facing kitchens improve with tones such as white or green.

East-facing kitchens are the best for grays, creams, and pastel tones.

Those facing west are perfect for cold colors.

• The pink or mauve color can combine well with each other, creating a soft contrast with white lacquered furniture.
• Grey kitchens are a color that provides a sense of visual amplitude and luminosity.
• The dining area can be differentiated by dressing the wall with a cheerful striped paper, giving a modern air.
• Universal colors with neutral tones, based on green, brown, or yellow, combine with any style. The broken white conjugates cleanliness and clarity.

If you want to learn more about color, we have an extensive guide to color in architecture.

5.- Details, Complements, and Accessories

The complements and small accessories will give the final touch to the modern kitchen design, achieving a very personal atmosphere:

• Candles in different colors placed on shelves or on the table will give warmth.
• A vase will bring joy if adorned with a good bouquet of natural or artificial flowers. It will be ideal for the countertop corner.
• Small, fun, or design accessories always give a touch of joy or distinction to a space that is often a gathering point. So, take note!

• A planter with a plant next to the window will give life and color.
• If you decide to put covers on the chairs, the fabric can be the same tone as the curtains, to match.
• When mixing pieces of different colors, they gain more prominence, but it is reasonable that there are very few.

Giving free rein to creativity with simple details or protagonist pieces can make it enjoyable and easy to work in a kitchen.

It should not only be a place to enjoy gastronomy, cooking, or stoves, but also offer a space for gatherings, sharing, and conversation.

Via Dsignedby

6.- Adding Meters

In recent years, the kitchen has been a source of ideas in decoration.

Practical accessories and furniture are sought to make cooking easy and to be the best host:

• To gain more space, it is necessary to dispense with tall cabinets, opting for extractable modules, display cases, and shelves, which have more than one function if equipped well inside and are increasingly prominent when choosing their current and practical design.
• The seating capacity can be occupied by a bench, which will be an alternative to give space; stools are ideal for not reducing areas.

• If, on the contrary, chairs are chosen, they can be selected from materials that are easy to clean and with designs that facilitate the passage area.
• A detail that must be taken into account is the distance from the table to the nearest furniture; to add meters, round or folding tables, due to their design, take advantage of corners.
• If the room allows it, a kitchen island, with or without a sink, in addition to presenting a work area, can offer several functions: storage area and office area; on the sides, it will be ideal to place large drawers or shelves.

• The drawers with multiple trays multiply their capacity, adapting to needs; a good solution is to make the most of the baseboard area by integrating drawers.
• The columns with an extractable opening system, placed next to corners, allow storing tall bottles and containers.
• The modules with wheels have gained popularity, as they integrate with any furniture and are easy to handle.
• A clever solution will be to place stainless steel plates on the back wall, which can act as a mirror, giving a sense of spaciousness.

7.- Flexibility in kitchen materials

A kitchen design must convey functionality in all its materials and a surprising aesthetic taste, attending to ergonomics with a mix of good lighting and resistant and durable materials.

Some materials in modern kitchen design most used and their advantages:

Combinations of stainless steel workbenches, workshop modules to maintain order added to stone, corian, zodiaq, solid wood or lamicolor countertops with curved line finishes.

Glass, aluminum, and steel are successful proposals for a kitchen with an aseptic and contemporary character.

Ahora, if you want exclusivity… ¡Look at the following trends!

8.- Lightness in kitchen furniture

Finding storage solutions with illuminated extractable columns is perfect! It will provide a perfect scenario for order and quality of life.

Drawers with sliding systems with straight sides and anodized aluminum, with a soft-close system at two heights, are practical and simple options that have been practiced for a long time in dining room decoration. Remember the famous phrase “Less is more”.

9.- Ecological sensitivity

Manufacturers offer their products with minimal material consumption, long-lasting, recyclable, and non-toxic finishes, giving us total freedom in choosing the finishes. If we look at the energy consumption table:

We will quickly realize the importance of household appliances in the kitchen; the oven, dishwasher, or different types of refrigerators we buy, which is what really consumes. So be careful what we spend our money on!

🟧Note: Do you want to have a sustainable and ecological modern kitchen? We have written a complete guide to create ecological and sustainable kitchens, which provide a healthier space that also respects the environment.

10.- Modularity and functionality in kitchen equipment

Choosing the latest technological trends in household appliances is important when choosing the style of your kitchen. An example of the latest technology for the kitchen:

Elliptical geometry extractor hoods made of aluminum and glass; refrigerators with divided climate zones inside for better food preservation; steam ovens for roasting and grilling, keeping food hot and achieving precise cooking.

11.- Naturalness and beauty that reflects the owner

The kitchen environment should be a family gathering point. It has to adjust perfectly to its owner. Ask yourself… How do you want to enjoy your kitchen?

One thing is trends, where each year we can add some details or change colors on objects or walls, but your personality has to be marked.

We want a place to cook, but also a space for personal enjoyment ¡don’t forget it!

12.- Well-being and Coherence in the Final Result of the New Kitchen

If we think that a little more light would give it life, better organization would be more comfortable or easier to clean…. Why not improve it to enjoy it to the fullest?

It is necessary to find a balance between the kitchen design and the lifestyle. We will look for the right colors (See meanings of colors in this article), integrating the necessary lighting and finding the most suitable accessories for the stay (Shelves, sink, appliances, etc).

13 – Trends in Kitchen Design and Style for 2024

The trends in kitchen design for autumn and 2024 are characterized by a mix of bold colors, natural materials, and styles that balance simplicity with warmth.

Colors

• Farewell to White: Kitchens are moving away from traditional immaculate white. This change indicates an evolution towards a warmer and more welcoming aesthetic.
• New Colors: There is an inclination towards warmer and more vibrant colors like kashmir and terracotta. Dark greens and sober blues are also gaining ground, offering a rich and profound aesthetic.
• Black Kitchens: Despite being a bold color, black is emerging as a popular option, present not only on surfaces but also in accessories, such as faucets.

Materials

• Wood: Wood, especially oak, remains a favorite material due to its warmth and natural texture. Oak shelves, in particular, add a rustic and earthy touch.
• Marble and Stone: These materials stand out for their elegance and durability. They bring a sense of luxury and quality to any space.
• Sustainable Faucets: Sustainability is becoming a crucial consideration. Efficient faucets help conserve water, aligning with a growing environmental awareness.

Styles

• Warm Minimalism: Combines the simplicity of minimalism with warm elements to create cozy but uncluttered spaces. It moves away from cold and sterile minimalism.
• Smooth Fronts: They are popular in minimalist kitchens.

• They offer a clean appearance and are easy to maintain, making them practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Additional Trends

• Curves: Curved shapes are becoming popular, adding smoothness and fluidity to the design. They can be seen in furniture, accessories, and architecture, contrasting with the straight lines of traditional minimalism.
• Kitchen Islands: Beyond aesthetics, islands are valued for their functionality. They offer additional space for food preparation, storage, and even dining.
• Pantry: They facilitate food organization and storage. They are practical and help keep the kitchen organized and efficient.

Although the trend favors open kitchens, personal preferences should always be a priority.

Lighting

• Variety of Light: Lighting adapts to different times of the day. Bright LED light is ideal for the day, while softer light favors relaxation at night.
• Smart Technology: It allows for total control over lighting, facilitating the creation of specific ambiances and adapting to individual needs.

Although we have a detailed article on what LED strips are suitable for kitchens, we recommend checking out the following infographic at least:

How to Calculate the Budget for a Kitchen Renovation

On the Internet, we have different tools and applications to see how much a kitchen renovation costs and get a more or less detailed budget.

One of the best tools to give us an orientative kitchen budget is from the IVE application (Instituto Valenciano de la Edificación) that works with construction prices fully updated by year.

A useful online tool to give us an orientative value of the possible renovation costs (We can also save and print the budget).

Over 100 Photographs to Inspire You with Good Ideas

Although we often have an idea of what we want, looking at other projects and images can give us more inspiration. So, we leave you some websites where you’ll find good photographs of modern kitchens to catch some good ideas!

• We start with Instagram. From HERE and with the hashtag #kitchens, there are hundreds of examples and photos.
• On ISSUU, hundreds of decoration magazines and books are uploaded with free access and no need to register; Nuevo Estilo, AD Decoración, Interiors, ELLE Decor, Architecture and Design. From HERE, you can access many magazines to get inspired.
• Pinterest is also the perfect place to find hundreds of photos uploaded by users. You can check from HERE.

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