40 inspiring kitchen ideas for every style, budget and project

Remodeling or even refreshing a kitchen is one of the most exciting projects to tackle. Yes, it might come with its stresses but it pays off to create your perfect kitchen since it is the room we all tend to spend the most time. In recent years, it's become even more multifunctional, it's the room we cook in, but also potentially the room we work from and socialize from. The kitchen is more the heart of the home than ever. 

But where do you start? Well, looking for kitchen ideas and inspiration is always a good jumping-off point, and the most exciting part of the process too. So here we have rounded up the best kitchen ideas that covers colors, layouts, trends, and more. Plus plenty of practical advice from interior designers to ensure your project gets off to the best start.

40 kitchen ideas to inspire

From cabinets and lighting schemes to backsplashes and flooring, these kitchen ideas cover everything you need to think about. You can use them, too, to inspire your kitchen layout ideas.

1. Layer up the decor for a characterful kitchen

If there's one thing that recent years have taught us, it's that kitchen ideas that promote a feeling of homeliness make us happy. 'Homeliness' means different things to all of us – some like minimalism, others a more decorative feel. 

For interior designer Cortney Bishop, it's about layering with, for example, rugs, choosing characterful cabinet fronts, and keeping countertops clear, to give cherished personal belongings space to be displayed: 'Showcase your personal style – whether it’s displaying pottery, a vase of beautiful florals, or a unique basket or tray,' she says when sharing her kitchen styling tips. 'I always recommend to design with intent and function. Less is sometimes more, but not always.'

2. Know where to spend and where to save

Knowing how much a new kitchen costs can help you know where to spend and save right from the beginning of the process. 

'For us, the cabinetry is really the star of the show, so we would suggest investing in bespoke, made-to-measure options. Saving money on countertops, appliances and flooring is the best way to approach kitchen design to give the 'bones' of the space the maximum longevity,' explains kitchen designer Tom Howley.

'Glass is an excellent finish for kitchens. Not only do glazed cabinets break up the monotony of repetitive, solid fronted doors – especially in large spaces – they maximize the flow of light into darker corners. Having glass-fronted doors is as good as open shelving when it comes to displaying your prized pieces. They’re also fantastic when accessing everyday essentials allowing you to see what you have and where you’ve put things.'

3. Integrate appliances for a sleek look

'One of our favorite kitchen features to incorporate into our projects is the integration of built-in appliances,' explains designer Alissa Johnson. 'This not only brings a sleek and modern look, but also eliminates clutter, optimizes space and promotes an organized kitchen layout.'

'With appliances neatly tucked away behind panels or within custom built-in cabinets, the kitchen feels more spacious and inviting, making it easier for clients to navigate and enjoy their cooking experience. Additionally, this design feature allows for easier maintenance and cleaning, as there are fewer nooks and crannies for dirt and grime to accumulate. Overall, built-in appliances reduce visual distractions while contributing to a more organized and efficient kitchen space, a top priority in each of our projects.'

4. Combine on trend light woods with grounding dark hues

Light wood has dominated kitchen trends for years. and is perfect for creating a Scandi kitchen style. However, we are noticing a shift towards darker wood, or at least a shift to really grounding woods with plenty of darker colors. 

As designer Jennifer Walter explains, 'While the light wood cabinetry frenzy is still very much happening, we’ve been seeing some departures in the all wood kitchens as of late.  To avoid it feeling too trendy, we’ve been mixing in blacks and even painted cabs and islands into our mostly light-wood kitchens. It gives both relief, and more of a sense of style and curation.'

5. Ditch the wall cabinetry

If you can avoid losing the storage, replacing wall cabinetry with shelving really opens up a kitchen and provides the perfect space to add a ton of character to the space. 

'Floating shelves are one of my favorite features to add in kitchens,' says designer Shaolin Low of Studio Shaolin. 'They take up less space than cabinets and make the kitchen feel more airy and open. They’re also easy to customize so you can add storage to areas in the kitchen where cabinets may not fit (such as corners).'

Good kitchen ideas always combine practicality and aesthetics – which is where kitchen shelving ideas can come in useful. Think about how you might make a 250mm-deep wall shelf beautiful, as well as functional, with some stacked up cookery books, your nicest crockery and artwork too. 

6. Hide a pantry

Pantries have had an upgrade in 2024, an upgrade that looks to the past really as the back kitchen has become a coveted feature of a modern kitchen. A back kitchen is very similar to a pantry – it's a way to keep more practical parts of a kitchen hidden and can be a great asset if you host a lot and want to keep prep, mess, and appliances out of sight. 

'We love a hidden pantry!' says Brittany Hakimfar of Far Studio. 'It is so nice to keep the kitchen clean and all of the appliances out of sight. Typically, we like to equip these with a sink and even dishwasher if possible.'

7. Let tile be the focal point

Your choice of kitchen tile can really elevate the space, and you don't have to go bold in order for them to become the focal point. A subtle print, or even texture can have just as much impact as color. Use a tile to soften a kitchen, a space full of such straight lines and glossy finishes can really benefit from an interestingly textured tile. 

As Tess Twiehaus of Tess Interiors explains 'One of my favorite features is an interesting tile. It doesn't have to dominate the entire kitchen, but it can be such a pretty moment that introduces a new pattern or texture.'

8. Make a hood something beautiful

One element of a kitchen you would want to hide, disguising a kitchen hood has turned into making a hood a feature of the space. If you can turn something functional into something beautiful then why not? 

As Mark Shubert of Phillip Harrison Interiors explains, 'Some of our favorite features we like to incorporate into our kitchen projects are oversized hood surrounds and full height stone backsplashes to create impactful design elements, drawer dishwashers to maximize functionality and instant hot water or carbonated water faucets.'

9. Break the rules with kitchen lighting

A great lighting scheme has the power to transform ordinary kitchen ideas into something truly spectacular. Now that our kitchens are increasingly performing on a multifunctional level, so our kitchen lighting ideas must evolve to cater to dining, relaxing, office or homework, and entertaining. 

Cleverly positioned lighting can also hide a multitude of sins – making a small kitchen appear larger, disguising awkward architecture or compensating for poor natural light.

The go-to for 'on trend' kitchen lighting has always been pendants – usually a row of three to create a focal point. But we are less obsessed with the three-pendant style than we once were. As Jennifer Walter says, 'We’ve also been seeing and using simpler light fixtures above islands. Gone is the three-pendant rule over the island.  We’ve been using simpler fixtures, and even one, traditional armed pendant over an island to avoid the eye focusing only on the lights in the room.'

'We’ve even started hanging pendants in front of the sink area in lieu of sconces over top or to the side for something a bit more European feeling,' she adds. 

10. Choose wall lights that double as decor

As the layout develops, start thinking about the lighting, not only for wiring purposes, but also so that you can problem-solve as the plans unfold, says Jamie Blake, creative director of Blakes London. 

'For example, I would usually use LEDs under the wall cupboards to light the worktop. Without them, another lighting solution is required, so instead I might include kitchen wall lights on swing arms that can be angled to suit.'

11. Maximize space with refrigerated drawers

While refrigerators are only getting chicer, and can, in fact, add style to your kitchen, keeping as many appliances hidden as possible is the top option for most remodeling a kitchen. But rather than going for a fridge integrated into one of your cabinets, instead, make things even more seamless and practical with integrated refrigerated drawers.

'Undercounter refrigerated drawers are great, easy to navigate and use,' explains Vani Sayeed of Vani Sayeed Studios. 'Each time you open a tall refrigerator door you lose energy but the drawer is compartmentalized for a particular purpose like holding drinks, etc. These are also really convenient to fit in tight spaces. As a rule, we maximize storage and use all the corners and often spec a blind base corner unit from Hafele or a similar product.'

12. Treat a kitchen more like a living room

Kitchens that feel less like... kitchens has been a growing trend for a few years now. We all want kitchens that feel more relaxed and laid back, more like a living room with soft features and a welcoming atmosphere. Luckily, it's an easy aesthetic to achieve. 

As designer Julie Anne Burch explains, 'Infuse creativity into the kitchen space, transforming it into a welcoming environment. Incorporate lighting fixtures strategically and diverse seating arrangements for versatility. Recognize the kitchen as the heart of the home, enriching it with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, fresh flowers, and the warm glow of candles.'

13. Go for a classic with Shaker style

'Classic simplicity' is a phrase that sums up Shaker kitchen ideas. What we love about this look is that it is quietly characterful, will complement both modern and traditional homes, and can be as rustic or streamlined and elegant as you'd like.

White, cream, grey – or neutral-colored – Shaker kitchens are so easy to redecorate around, and if you are installing a kitchen to please future home buyers, you really can't go wrong with this most recognizable of American kitchen styles. For the more adventurous, Shaker kitchens in darker shades, such as black, blue and green can also look incredibly smart.'

14. Add personality with eclectic decor

For color lovers, a kitchen is a great place to go a little wild and introduce a theme using your favorite shades, prints and patterns – particularly when planning kitchen wall decor ideas. 

We asked sought-after interior designer Michelle Nussbaumer, known for her stunning global style, for her advice on how to incorporate these elements in your kitchen:

‘For a good colorful kitchen, it is important to intersperse bright shades of blues, reds and pinks within a neutral space, but there has to be some consistency in color when combining different patterns like flooring. 

'I like to include tribal patterns mixed with an English Chintz, French Paisley or Indian block print to achieve my worldly look. Think 19th Century English traveler goes to India via Morocco.’

15. Create depth but keep it minimal with fluting

In contemporary settings, fluted patterns can be used to provide 3D interest – just enough to add character, while retaining the simplicity required to work in modern designs. 

‘Fluted surfaces catch the light, creating deep shadows and texture within a room, and are particularly effective when set against a simple white space,’ agrees Stuart Piercy, founding director, Piercy&Company. ‘In natural solid materials, like the American black walnut and Calacatta Crema marble splashbacks used in this kitchen, fluting reveals the beautiful grain pattern and vein running through the core. It is an intriguing detail with wonderful depth.’

16. Reinvent rustic kitchens with moody shades

In tune with general kitchen trends towards creating homely spaces, rustic kitchen ideas are more popular than ever. And while white or cream color schemes are still predominant, with blue and green following close behind, deeper, moodier, earthier cabinet colors are gaining popularity – especially when combined with warm wooden tones and freestanding pieces. 

17. Introduce positivity and warmth with yellow

Kitchen color ideas play an integral role when it comes to the look and feel of your kitchen design. Embraced in a big way or used in small doses, yellow kitchen ideas are rich, versatile, and exude warmth.

‘Introducing an accent color presented the opportunity to add a playful edge to this space,’ explains Lucy Popps, senior designer, Kitchen Bee Design. ‘Using the color on glazed wall kitchen cabinets softens the impact and adds depth.’ 

The zesty yellow in question, Dulux’s Lemon Punch, was inspired by the stained glass in the home’s front door, which can be just glimpsed at the end of the entryway.

18. Add joie de vivre with a French country kitchen

The ethos of modern French country kitchen design is all about evoking a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, without going full rural Provence. Here, interior designer Jessica Summer sets the scene with earthy tones and plenty of texture. 

‘The kitchen cabinetry is minimal and contemporary to allow the materials to stand out, but also to balance the traditional features like the antique butcher’s block and kitchen shelving ideas that are open, or by decorating above kitchen cabinets.

19. Soften a kitchen with a rug

Where once kitchens were purely practical and designed to be functional, now we are looking to create lived-in looks for them that are more a reflection of the decor in the rest of our homes, particularly our living spaces.

The easiest way to transform an existing kitchen is with textiles – rugs or runners that can withstand or disguise the odd splash or stain along a run of cabinetry or under a dining table, and pretty cushion pads on seats are a good place to start. Another way to introduce color and texture is by showing off decorative china and pottery on open shelving.

20. Add interest to the ceiling

On maximizing the potential of statement ceilings, architectural practice SPPARC has the drop. ‘Ceilings featuring interesting shapes and materials can be used to achieve an articulation and rhythm with architectural features elsewhere – in this case the floating stairs that lead from the kitchen to the living spaces above,’ says Trevor Morriss of SPPARC. Crafted from stained ash and oak, this chunky ceiling is certain to have everybody talking. 

21. Consider a shapely backsplash

Why end a kitchen backsplash in a straight, horizontal line when curvaceous silhouettes can prove far more enticing? 

Here, Australia-based designer Tamsin Johnson cut swooping curves into marble, merging backsplash and cooker hood with striking sinuousness. Also explore tiled backsplash in fish scales and hexagons for simple shape-shifting surfaces. 

22. Bring in a ladder for form and function

Now there’s one more reason to celebrate high kitchen ceilings – the library ladder is coming into its own. Seen in all the loftiest modern kitchens, statement ladders are being embraced in all their vertical glory. 

‘A permanent ladder is about so much more than accessible high-level storage,’ says designer Keith Myers, founder of The Myers Touch. ‘A beautiful ladder provides an interesting, eye-catching feature, while the metal rail introduces a punchy design detail.’

23. Create a more relaxed feel with stools

When it comes to bar stools, bespoke maker Jack Trench points to a trend for more intimate perching in the white kitchen. ‘This may be a single or two-stool perching point, or simply a more economically sized breakfast bar,’ says director, Jack Trench. 

‘The trend stems from those with kitchen-diners, who are realizing they don’t always need extensive breakfast bars in addition to a table. However, they do still want seating within the hub of the kitchen. This is where the kitchen perch comes into its own; informal seating for a quick coffee or checking emails.’ 

24. Add pattern to a kitchen with wallpaper

Companies such as Little Greene and Morris & Co are championing the return of wallpaper to the kitchen. Kitchen wallpaper ideas include modern designs, of course, but those with the most impact have a heritage appeal – playing to that desire to make kitchens feel just as decorated as living rooms. 

'Kitchen wall decor ideas are admittedly tricky – it's vital to ensure that the design you choose is moisture-resistant – or that your decorator has come up with a solution for giving the wallpaper you have set your heart on some moisture-resistance,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens. 'That said, there are many beautiful kitchen – and bathroom – ready designs that will elevate your space from plain to personalized.'

25. Rethink fabrics for a kitchen, too

If the kitchen ideas you are putting in your scrapbook – virtual or otherwise – are bursting with pattern and color, then your next option might be kitchen curtain ideas. Just as with wallpaper, the fabrics you choose must be able to withstand moisture from cooking, and splashes and sticky fingers, too, if you have young children. 

And it may be that you want to limit to curtain fabrics to a doorway, as in the kitchen above, choosing blinds for more practical window treatment ideas. 'One simple curtain treatment can make a kitchen feel cozier, more welcoming and colorful,' says Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' Digital Editor. 'Fabrics can also help with acoustics, which is often a problem in kitchens.'

26. Blend contemporary elements with traditional style

Kitchen trends might be ever-changing but more often than not, it’s a blend of styles that hits the right note – elegant proportions combined with modern practicality. 

Classic kitchen ideas, with their timeless lines and broad appeal, can tick all these boxes, narrowing the gap between traditional furniture and contemporary design to suit your home. 

‘While the architecture of the cabinetry may pay homage to a particular era, the equipment can be state of the art and tailored to your lifestyle,’ explains Jane Stewart, design director at Mowlem & Co. 

‘For example, you can house banks of refrigeration and wine storage in a corniced, fully framed run of furniture. Materials should be of the finest quality but the look can be updated by details, be it stains, color, reflective finishes, distinctive handles, lighting, pop up sockets, boiling water taps or unusual bespoke elements.’

27. Design a kitchen fit for a chef

If you truly love cooking it makes sense that your kitchen ideas should be centered around functionality first. The growing interest in home cooking during has lead to the rise in interest in chef's kitchens – how they are laid out, the appliances they include and their practicality-first design approach. 

28. Bring accent colors into a neutral kitchen

When designing a kitchen, use a combination of colors, materials and finishes to create a characterful look – but just as you would in a living room, limit your palette to one main color and two accents.

In this kitchen, interior designer Brenna Morgan used grey as the predominant shade in the marble-look island, with black painted cabinets as an accent next to warmer, stained wood cabinetry and bright turquoise bar stools in this lakeside retreat.

29. Embrace the trend for dark and dramatic kitchens

Black kitchen ideas are back on trend – and while they do really suit traditional homes, they are most striking in contemporary settings. 

Unlike green or blue, black is a neutral shade, which mean you can use other colors paired with it with ease – but we think black as a backdrop is best complemented by textures found in natural materials, such as wood and brick, which will add contrast to matte cabinetry, but warmth, too.

30. Work your layout around your windows

'The layout of the room is what makes a kitchen design successful,' says Tom Howley. 'The most important thing to consider is how you use your space. If your kitchen is near your garden, or has a nice view, make sure the furniture layout makes the best of this by orienting towards the view.'

'Your sink doesn’t always have to be positioned looking out to the garden; consider locating your dining area with the best view in the kitchen. Creating an indoor outdoor living space will mean that dinner parties can extend outside into the garden, with all the essentials to hand in the kitchen.'

31. Add a ton of personality with pattern

Kitchen interior design should never be overlooked – and can be easily introduced into a space with pattern. In this scheme by interior designer Anna Spiro, the same paisley print is used on the walls and the chairs to link the areas. 

‘When color and pattern are used well, they give an air of individuality and help create rooms that are full of energy,’ says Anna Spiro. By opting for a slightly larger scale on the upholstery, the repeat creates extra impact as the shape takes up the majority of the chair backs. With a larger surface area available on the walls, a smaller repeat allows the pattern to be seen in its entirety. 

32. Include freestanding for a more flexible layout

For those seeking a more relaxed approach to kitchen design, the option of buying freestanding, rather than fitted, cabinets is proving increasingly attractive. Often initiated by the desire to protect original architectural features from the permanent attachment of modern fitted units, freestanding kitchens are becoming a particularly popular choice in period properties. They are also one of the most sustainable kitchen ideas as they allow you to shake things up when the mood takes you without the need to remove a fitted design.

The ability to try out various layouts to find out what truly works reduces the pressure to get your kitchen right first time. There’s also a great deal of reassurance to be found in the knowledge that a freestanding kitchen can be configured in different ways to meet your family’s changing needs. 

33. Warm up an all white kitchen with natural textures

You can’t go far wrong with white. As well as lightening up smaller spaces, white kitchens feel clean and stylish - but you do need to balance it with a warming material like natural wood. 

Will Thompson, Head of Marketing at Valspar advises: ‘When you’re choosing a color scheme, the perfect combination is integral to our positive experience and enjoyment of the room. If you’re a fan of a classic finish, an all-white kitchen works beautifully for spaces of all sizes. 

Small kitchens will benefit from the reflective nature of a white color scheme, paired with natural wood finishes such as countertops, wood flooring and door handles to break up the white and enhance the earthy feel.’

34. Mix patterns with plains to create a balanced scheme

‘The graphical and playful impact that the backsplash has on this space is a real conversation-starter,’ says Irene Gunter, Co-Founder of Gunter & Co.

‘When designing a kitchen there always needs to be that one eye catching feature. In this case the tiles were chosen before anything else and the metal trims and cabinet door finish came after, the blue was chosen as a neutral which in the case of this colorful project made total sense

'Given the cost of the luxe marble tiles with satin brass inlay, we knew that we needed to use the tiles sparingly. That’s why this single-wall kitchen configuration turned out to be the perfect fit.’

We love the detailing of these kitchen tile ideas and how they work against the sleek blue units. The result is an exciting color scheme that incorporates both pattern and plain elements that are both bold and contemporary.  

35. Elevate a kitchen with a mural

Hardworking and high-functioning, kitchens have generally focused on easy-to-clean surfaces but there is nothing to say these have to be plain. Approached with care, kitchens can prove surprisingly receptive to some decorative interest, with a range of kitchen art ideas to choose from. 

‘The kitchen is very much the heart of the home and somewhere we all spend a good deal of time. Introducing pattern in your style will help it feel more personal and relaxing,’ says designer Susie Watson. 

Perhaps the easiest way to add pattern, and one that is simple to update, is to use interesting wallpaper ideas and fabric. The trend for kitchens to be larger, to be an open space that incorporates some form of living zone, encourages décor with curtains or blinds, and perhaps even a sofa and cushions. 

36. Be sympathetic to the original design

Take inspiration from your room’s architecture to search for kitchen ideas that feel right at home. You may have always dreamed of a painted traditional kitchen or, indeed, something more sleek and modern, but there is no getting away from the fact that the most successful kitchens work in harmony with the architecture of the room.

‘Done well, taking design cues from the existing structure will result in a relaxed, harmonious cooking space. It’s also a great way to add character and individuality,’ says Richard Davonport, Managing Director of Davonport. 

It’s worth noting that using the key features of the room is just as important as starting with date and style – after all, you’re not looking to create a slavishly accurate historical replica. And where possible, use authentic materials to create a characterful look. This works particularly when you are looking for kitchen flooring ideas – the brick look of this herringbone flooring is spot on.

37. Introduce a splash of color

Pick a shade that will give your kitchen a vibrant lift and create a welcoming space for cooking and entertaining. With the kitchen now a multi-purpose room designed as much for living as it is for cooking, it is important to decorate to suit. 

Neutrals aren’t for everyone and the sizeable cost of a new kitchen shouldn’t dictate that you play it safe. It’s more a case of choosing how and where to introduce color, picking spots that can be easily updated, and introducing shades that mirror the color palette in the rest of your home. 

‘It’s amazing how a change of paint color or some new tiles can give a kitchen a completely fresh look, picking up on different accents within the home,’ adds Rob Whitaker, creative director, Fired Earth. 

38.Factor in space for ample storage

Precision planning is the key to turning a chaotic kitchen into a neat and tidy workspace. With the kitchen coming under increasing pressure to perform a variety of crucial roles such as family dining, relaxing, working and entertaining, a good layout and choosing the best kitchen storage ideas is more important than ever.

‘High capacity, well-sited storage is essential to keep everything neat and tidy, providing a clutter-free space that’s a pleasure to use,’ says Danny Lay, Sales Director, Caple. 

In a multi-use, open-plan space, try to allocate dedicated storage in each area, not just kitchen cupboard storage. For example, window seats with deep pull-out drawers are perfect for stashing away toys and ensure that there’s at least one drawer or shelving unit near the TV for tidying away remote controls and games consoles. 

‘Installing an island with cabinets on both sides helps maximize storage in the dining area for formal crockery and glassware,’ adds Tony McCarthy, Commercial Director at Crown Imperial. 

39. Don't let creativity be restricted by size

Don’t let a lack of space restrict your style. Taking an ambitious approach to the design and fittings can result in striking small kitchens that punch way above their weight. While the long-established preference for going ‘light and bright’ when decorating small spaces does apply, it’s important not to let your kitchen slip into neutral obscurity. 

‘Don’t be afraid to use color – even really bright colors in high gloss finishes, such as lime green, blue, lilac or pink. It’s a great way to give your kitchen a  boost if you haven’t got a great deal of space to play with,’ advises Adrian Stoneham of Stoneham Kitchens.

40. Invest in high-quality stone

Beautiful, hardwearing and timeless, it’s no surprise natural stone has enduring appeal in the kitchen. Stone adds a drama and natural beauty to your room that simply can’t be matched by other materials.

From limestone and marble, granite and slate, this versatile material is available in a wide range of shades and patterns, and it can suit modern, country and classic schemes. Popular when designing a kitchen island but also for floors, walls, worktops and backsplashes, it’s the variety of stone and the way that it is finished that delivers so many strong looks. 

There’s an element of care involved in the maintenance of all kinds of stone as it is a naturally porous material. The level of upkeep will depend on the stone, so ask the retailer’s advice and make your choice based on lifestyle compatibility as well as aesthetics.