An old stone mansion built in 1924 had seen a number of renovations over the decades and the time had finally come to address a growing list of issues. Rather than continue with a patchwork of fixes, the owners engaged us to conduct a full house renovation to bring this home back to its former glory and in line with its status as an international consulate residence where dignitaries are hosted on a regular basis. One of the biggest projects was remodeling the expansive 365 SF kitchen; the main kitchen needed to be both a workhorse for the weekly catered events as well as serve as the residents’ primary hub. We made adjustments to the kitchen layout to maximize countertop and storage space as well as enhance overall functionality, being mindful of the dual purposes this kitchen serves. To add visual interest to the large space we used two toned cabinets – classic white along the perimeter and a deep blue to distinguish the two islands and tall pantry. Brushed brass accents echo the original brass hardware and fixtures throughout the home. A kitchen this large needed a statement when it came to the countertops so we selected a stunning Nuvolato quartzite with distinctive veining that complements the blue cabinets. We restored and refinished the original Heart of Pine floors, letting the natural character of the wood shine through. A custom antique Heart of Pine wood top was commissioned for the fixed island – the warmth of wood was preferable to stone for the informal seating area. The second island serves as both prep area and staging space for dinners and events. This mobile island can be pushed flush with the stationary island to provide a generous area for the caterers to expedite service. Adjacent to the main kitchen, we added a second service kitchen for the live-in staff and their family. This room used to be a catch-all laundry/storage/mudroom so we had to get creative in order to incorporate all of those features while adding a fully functioning eat-in kitchen. Using smaller appliances allowed us to capture more space for cabinetry and by stacking the cabinets and washer/dryer (relocated to the rear service foyer) we managed to meet all the requirements. We installed salvaged Heart of Pine floors to match the originals in the adjacent kitchen and chose a neutral finish palette that will be easy to maintain. These kitchens weren’t the only projects we undertook in the historic stone mansion. Other renovations include 7 bathrooms, flooring throughout (hardwoods, custom carpets/runners/wall-to-wall), custom drapery and window treatments, new lighting/electric, as well as paint/trim and custom closet and cabinetry.

Beach House V

J G Popper Custom Builder LLC

Unique kitchen

Stone Kitchen Island

LWK London Kitchens

Graphite stone effect kitchen with laminate breakfast bar seating

Military Rd New House

emcee design

home visit

Sweetbay Ridge: Craftsman Mountain Home

Timberlake Custom Homes

scenic view kitchen

AN URBAN VILLA IN WEST DULWICH

Francesco Pierazzi Architects

The large open space continues the themes set out in the Living and Dining areas with a similar palette of darker surfaces and finishes, chosen to create an effect that is highly evocative of past centuries, linking new and old with a poetic approach. The dark grey concrete floor is a paired with traditional but luxurious Tadelakt Moroccan plaster, chose for its uneven and natural texture as well as beautiful earthy hues. The supporting structure is exposed and painted in a deep red hue to suggest the different functional areas and create a unique interior which is then reflected on the exterior of the extension.

Ultramodern German Kitchen in Findon Valley, West Sussex

Alexander Kitchens

Ultramodern German Kitchen in Findon Valley, West Sussex Our contracts team make the most of a wonderful open plan space with an ultramodern kitchen design & theme. The Brief For this kitchen project in Findon Valley a truly unique design was required. With this property recently extensively renovated, a vast ground floor space required a minimalist kitchen theme to suit the style of this client. A key desirable was a link between the outdoors and the kitchen space, completely level flooring in this room meant that when bi-fold doors were peeled back the kitchen could function as an extension of this sunny garden. Throughout, personal inclusions and elements have been incorporated to suit this client. Design Elements To achieve the brief of this project designer Sarah from our contracts team conjured a design that utilised a huge bank of units across the back wall of this space. This provided the client with vast storage and also meant no wall units had to be used at the client’s request. Further storage, seating and space for appliances is provided across a huge 4.6-meter island. To suit the open plan style of this project, contemporary German furniture has been used from premium supplier Nobilia. The chosen finish of Slate Grey compliments modern accents used elsewhere in the property, with a dark handleless rail also contributing to the theme. Special Inclusions An important element was a minimalist and uncluttered feel throughout. To achieve this plentiful storage and custom pull-out platforms for small appliances have been utilised to minimise worktop clutter. A key part of this design was also the high-performance appliances specified. Within furniture a Neff combination microwave, Neff compact steam oven and two Neff Slide & Hide ovens feature, in addition to two warming drawers beneath ovens. Across the island space, a Bora Pure venting hob is used to remove the need for an overhead extractor – with a Quooker boiling tap also fitted. Project Highlight The undoubtable highlight of this project is the 4.6 metre island – fabricated with seamless Corian work surfaces in an Arrow Root finish. On each end of the island a waterfall edge has been included, with seating and ambient lighting nice additions to this space. The End Result The result of this project is a wonderful open plan kitchen design that incorporates several great features that have been personalised to suit this client’s brief. This project was undertaken by our contract kitchen team. Whether you are a property developer or are looking to renovate your own home, consult our expert designers to see how we can design your dream space. To arrange an appointment visit a showroom or book an appointment now.

Butler's Pantry

Angela Reynolds Designs

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen

Kowalske Kitchen & Bath

Creating a space to entertain was the top priority in this Mukwonago kitchen remodel. The homeowners wanted seating and counter space for hosting parties and watching sports. By opening the dining room wall, we extended the kitchen area. We added an island and custom designed furniture-style bar cabinet with retractable pocket doors. A new awning window overlooks the backyard and brings in natural light. Many in-cabinet storage features keep this kitchen neat and organized. Bar Cabinet The furniture-style bar cabinet has retractable pocket doors and a drop-in quartz counter. The homeowners can entertain in style, leaving the doors open during parties. Guests can grab a glass of wine or make a cocktail right in the cabinet. Outlet Strips Outlet strips on the island and peninsula keeps the end panels of the island and peninsula clean. The outlet strips also gives them options for plugging in appliances during parties. Modern Farmhouse Design The design of this kitchen is modern farmhouse. The materials, patterns, color and texture define this space. We used shades of golds and grays in the cabinetry, backsplash and hardware. The chevron backsplash and shiplap island adds visual interest. Custom Cabinetry This kitchen features frameless custom cabinets with light rail molding. It’s designed to hide the under cabinet lighting and angled plug molding. Putting the outlets under the cabinets keeps the backsplash uninterrupted. Storage Features Efficient storage and organization was important to these homeowners. We opted for deep drawers to allow for easy access to stacks of dishes and bowls. Under the cooktop, we used custom drawer heights to meet the homeowners’ storage needs. A third drawer was added next to the spice drawer rollout. Narrow pullout cabinets on either side of the cooktop for spices and oils. The pantry rollout by the double oven rotates 90 degrees. Other Updates Staircase – We updated the staircase with a barn wood newel post and matte black balusters Fireplace – We whitewashed the fireplace and added a barn wood mantel and pilasters.

Lucas Ranch - Mediterranean Great Room & Kitchen

In the Deets

Modern Mediterranean new construction home featuring custom finishes throughout. A warm, Mediterranean palette, brass fixtures, colorful accents make this home a one-of-a-kind.

PK17 - Designer Kitchen

Cascade West Development

This Modern Multi-Level Home Boasts Master & Guest Suites on The Main Level + Den + Entertainment Room + Exercise Room with 2 Suites Upstairs as Well as Blended Indoor/Outdoor Living with 14ft Tall Coffered Box Beam Ceilings!

Aisling Wood Slab in Frame Kitchen

Portfolio Kitchens

A modern kitchen which still feels homely. We chose an inframe kitchen but with a flat door. As it's a bespoke, traditional style of kitchen but the flat door and long bar handles give it a streamlined and contemporary feel.

Interior Design at it's best!

User

Zesta Kitchens

Classic Haven

Willow & August Interiors

Modern Kitchen

Mountain Luxury on the Water

Ashley J. Design

Dripping Springs Farmhouse

Olson Defendorf Custom Homes

Timber Tones in Kitchen, Bathroom & Custom Joinery in Perth

Elementi Concept

Expansive Kitchen with Grey Benchtop Design Ideas

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to planning your kitchen design. Where do you even start? Gathering some inspiration in a photo gallery is always a good starting point, as looking at different kitchen designs often brings up ideas you haven’t even thought of yet.

Browse Photos of Kitchen Designs for Inspiration and Collect Your Ideas

You can browse through photos of all kinds of kitchen styles, layouts and sizes on Houzz to get started before jumping into any design software or contacting a local professional for help. Here’s a few considerations to keep in mind when planning your kitchen.

1. What Makes a Good Kitchen Design, and Why is it Important?

For starters, you want to find a balance between aesthetics and function. You may have heard of the ‘kitchen work triangle’, which refers to the space between your fridge, sink and stove. You want everything within easy reach when you’re working in the kitchen and look beautiful at the same time. It’s a good idea to take note of both when browsing our photo gallery.

2. Consider Your Space to Determine Your Kitchen Layout

Firstly, consider the space you have, and the limitations that come with it. Do you have a small kitchen and need to maximise your workspace and storage? Can you allow yourself some more space and a big island with seating? Are you designing your kitchen from scratch or renovating an existing design? Which appliances do you already own and what are their measurements? Are there windows you need to take into consideration when planning cabinets? How do kitchen, living and dining areas connect? Depending on your space and needs, you want to use a shape that suits you. U, G, or L-shaped kitchen, with or without island or peninsula? Know your dimensions, plan cabinetry carefully and consider the placement of your appliances. You don’t want to end up with a finished design, only for your significant other to question where the fridge is supposed to go. Consider from the start where your fridge, oven, microwave and sink goes to save yourself from starting again from scratch - remember the kitchen work triangle! You also want to plan the layout of your cabinets. Maybe you’re planning for a pantry and can do with less storage space in your kitchen, so that your design can be one without upper or lower cabinets for a different look. A corner cabinet can be a smart storage solution if you want to keep the look clean and simple.

3. Decide on a Kitchen Style, But Don’t Forget Practicality

You want the style of your kitchen to reflect your personality and taste. We have curated a large array of kitchen styles here at Houzz, from traditional to contemporary to transitional and everything in between. Consider what your cooking style is for a start - Italy is known for its cuisine, so italian kitchen designs are generally popular. Also consider ergonomics - depending on how much time you spend in your kitchen, the height of your counters can make a big difference to your overall health. You also want to consider colour and finishes of cabinets, countertops and splashbacks. Which colour do you want your cupboards to be? Simple, timeless white or rather making a statement in black? Maybe rather a rustic wood? Also consider the colour of your floor - if you have dark floors, you may want to keep cabinets lighter. You could also go for an all-white look and choose black appliances for contrast. Once you know which style you fancy, don’t forget how you will be using the space. You want to keep cooking in mind, as well as how easy to clean and maintain the space will be. How many cooks do you need to accommodate? Do you have kids around? How much storage do you need? Maybe you want to go for open shelves rather than cabinets and allow for easy reach of key items you use when cooking. Again - remember the triangle! Lastly, choose lighting that both enhances the look of your kitchen as well as your cooking performance, providing light in all the right places.

4. Be Conscious of Your Budget

No matter what you plan for your kitchen design, cost is always a big factor. Be sure to plan with your budget in mind. It may make more sense to go for a modular kitchen design rather than custom build. You can save a lot of money if you get at least 3 estimates from professionals before locking in the job. And don’t forget to allow a 20% buffer for emergencies. Once you are ready to hire a pro, our directory will help you find one, no matter where you are. So whether you're looking for an Interior Designer in Melbourne or an Architect in Sydney, you can be sure to find a qualified expert for the job!