Kitchen Design – Function and Beauty

Hi Everyone,

Kitchen design seems to be a hot topic of conversation lately. I’ve been approached several times recently about current trends for kitchen design and remodels, how to combine function and beauty for great kitchen design.

Here are a few of my favorite kitchen designs for clients with different styles and use of materials.

This kitchen backsplash we designed for a client features a glass and marble mosaic accent tile above the cook top for a focal point and fun design.  While the remaining backsplash is a smooth glass tile.  Simple and easy to clean.

Adding a prep sink in the island is always functional when there is more than one cook in the kitchen which is the case for this vacation home designed for our clients.  A second dishwasher is always nice to have for large family gatherings and holiday entertaining.  This Kitchen also features solid quartz on both the counter top and full height backsplash.  Perfect for ease and care in any home and the simplicity of this pattern and color pair nicely with the simple modern design of the home.

A furniture detail always adds a nice custom element of design. The kitchen above was designed with the sink cabinet pulled forward and framed with a pedestal leg on both sides.  Other features include solid slab granite countertops with an under mount sink.

Adding a pot filler for the convenience of filling large pots right at the cook top was an important function to the client of this kitchen.  We also included an open shelf for spices to be conveniently accessed while cooking.  And the full height quartz backsplash makes it easy clean and maintain.

This beautiful white and black kitchen has many great features for function such as a pot filler, prep sink with hot water tap, and a built-in Espresso and coffee station.  The backsplash is natural stone tumbled tile with a dark pewter accent tile and liner to frame above the cook top. The kitchen island is also painted black for a high contrast from the white glazed perimeter cabinets.   Again a great example of both function and design.

Here the client wanted a warm brown stained cabinet and a backsplash that would really stand out.  We used a custom designed mosaic pattern using natural stone in browns and golds.  The pattern continues throughout the backsplash all around the kitchen.  Another fun design element is the red knobs of the range that pop out and really catch your eye.  The granite slab also has an elaborate edge detail for another design element.

So here are my best quick tips for creating great kitchen design with both beauty and function.  choose colors and materials you love, layout your kitchen how you work and where you want to store your items.  Add design elements that create a focal point and love your look!

Best~ Michelle