Seven seconds. Seven seconds is all you have to make a strong first impression on someone. Make a bad one, and you risk cementing that perception of yourself forever.
A house is, by extension, a part of you. It demonstrates what matters to you and which things you value most in life. It only stands to reason that well-designed modern kitchens make a considerable impact on your first impression.
However, beautiful modern kitchens aren’t as simple as alabaster counters and stainless steel appliances. Designing a pleasing kitchen requires a bit more thought, and we’re here to help you.
Keep reading as we discuss the six modern kitchen ideas for when you design your new cooking space.
1. Modern Kitchens Are All About Simplicity
Minimalism has come to be the dominant design philosophy in modern homes, and for good reason. Simplistic designs tend to be more elegant and more relaxed. They limit the elements, drawing the eye to key focal points rather than distracting it with clutter.
One of the best ways to do this is to reduce, rather than add. Modern kitchen designers attempt to boil things down to their basic function, rather than having too many unnecessary features. This means, for example, open cabinets that are purpose-built rather than bulky for maximum storage.
Kitchen sinks should have simple controls, drawers should have unobtrusive handles, and countertops should be featureless. Appliances should be sleek, recessed, and have a matte or brushed finish. Paneling needs to be a single grain with minimal patterns.
2. Employ Clean, Flowing Lines
Modern kitchen design is less about the ornate and more about straight edges and a crisp, clean look. There shouldn’t be design elements that break up the flow as the lines move from one wall to another.
The best way to do this is to focus on long, wide spaces. Big, flat countertops and long, thin storage shelves give the impression that a kitchen is lengthy and spacious. Low tables and stool chairs make the place look comfortable and approachable.
From appliances to furniture, look for brands that don’t rely so much on the frills. These can be cabinets that blend into a single surface while still giving the user sufficient storage space.
3. Prioritize an Open Layout
No one likes a small, cramped kitchen that feels like you’re in the backend of a restaurant. Big, open kitchens with high ceilings and wide walking space are preferred. Your modern kitchen needs bright LED lighting that brightens up the place.
Following along with the minimalist philosophy, focus on function over form. Avoid wide counters and overlarge islands. Instead, keep everything recessed and flat.
Employ an L-shaped kitchen space. These are all the rage these days, and for good reason. They make small and large kitchens feel bigger than they really are.
Prefer natural light over artificial lighting where you can. Filling an airy space with natural light is the best way to convey roominess.
4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Eco-friendly appliances don’t just look good, they save the environment as well. There’s no need to stick with your old, energy-guzzling appliances from yesteryear. Modern variations often have better, modern designs and don’t waste electricity needlessly.
Smart appliances shouldn’t stand out compared to their surroundings. Featureless refrigerator doors and discreet dishwashers all avoid disrupting the flow of lines or distracting the eye.
Include appliances that put your sophistication on display. A large wine cooler can feature your collection for guests, making wine ready when you want to show the place off.
Find appliances that contribute to your daily rituals. These appliances should enrich your everyday activities in the kitchen–which in many cases is the family’s central gathering place.
5. Upgrade the Lighting
None of this is complete without the right lighting. Lighting shouldn’t be an afterthought. You need well-positioned lighting that fits with the room’s organization and gives the proper mood.
If you want a kitchen that’s bright and open, get long rows of high-intensity LED bulbs. If you want a kitchen that feels moody and romantic for evening dining, consider pendant lights that focus on countertops and the island.
Lighting that blends into cabinets or hides under countertops is ideal. Avoid making pendants or lamps too gaudy, so they don’t attract too much attention to themselves.
Choose the right bulbs, too. LEDs are incredibly versatile. They can give sterile white light or cozy warm yellow that dims to fit the occasion.
6. Don’t Forget Ventilation and Power Outlets
Your kitchen shouldn’t just look great, it should smell great, too. Too many kitchens have tiny hoods that are obnoxiously loud as they ventilate. Instead, choose spacious hoods that quietly keep the air clear.
Get hoods that have the proper light settings to complement the area around them. Make sure the hood can keep up with your cooking. Choose colors that fit with the surrounding materials.
Don’t forget your plugs, but don’t let their covers be those bog-standard, ugly white plates. Choose a few select locations that can supply all of your necessary countertop appliances. Use plates that fit the color scheme and don’t stick out as too bright or too dark.
Design Your Modern Kitchen With German Kitchens
Modern kitchens have done away with homey, multi-featured appliances and clunky overhanging cabinets. A modern kitchen is minimalist above all else and focuses on functional set pieces that contribute to an overall theme and color scheme. Build a roomy space that has strong lighting, but avoid clutter and distracting design elements.
German Kitchens builds beautiful modern kitchens for the distinguished customer. We supply top brands from Baulux to Baubasic. Check out our showroom, or send us a message to pitch the kitchen of your dreams.
