Trends in Modern Kitchen Design

Modern kitchen design is all about clean lines and sleek finishes, but it doesn’t have to be clinical. Warm wood tones and rich hues can give a modern kitchen the character it needs to feel inviting. For example, in this kitchen designed by Thomas Pheasant, natural stone counters add texture and warmth to the modern space, while patterned floor tile and wood bar stools balance out the color palette.

Contrasting cabinets are still all the rage, and MasterBrand says that transitional and soft modern styles are also hot right now because they’re an ideal middle ground for homeowners who don’t want to commit to fully modern or traditional designs. A simple way to incorporate this trend is by painting the back of standard built-in shelves a contrasting color. In this kitchen by Kureck Jones, a charcoal gray pops against white cabinetry and helps tie in the slate gray backsplash and woven wicker island stools.

A large number of contemporary kitchens have an emphasis on horizontal lines—long windows, stacks of drawer cabinets lined up vertically, even hardware set long and horizontally to accentuate the line of the cabinets. This style works especially well in rooms with open layouts that maximize views and create a sense of space.

Stainless steel is an essential modern kitchen material, but it can sometimes feel cold and industrial. Infuse it with personality by adding a dramatic, on-trend metallic accent—such as a shiny brass backsplash or sleek satin rose gold faucets. Or, take a cue from this Arizona Cardinals player and chef’s Paradise Valley, AZ, kitchen, where designer Lindsay Kadlick added a plush look with a bespoke marble island countertop that stops short of the floor to create an extra-deep overhang. modern kitchen design