Five Kitchen Design Elements You’ll Regret Not Adding
I spent years dreaming up my kitchen, and these five things were non-negotiable. Each element was carefully selected to create a space that blends function, style, and personality. Here’s a breakdown of the design features I couldn’t live without:
Double Kitchen Islands
Most people either love this or hate it, but for me, there was no question. I never want to go back to a single island. If you have the space, I say go for it. The beauty of having two islands is that one can serve as a work area, while the other becomes a focal point. I absolutely love that we have one traditional island and one waterfall island, which features the stunning honed Zermatt quartzite. It’s not just practical, it’s like a work of art that brings the kitchen to life.
White Oak Accents
I love a clean, white kitchen, but the space was too open to keep it all white. White oak was the perfect addition to break up the expanse of white and add some warmth. The natural wood tones complement the modern aesthetic of the space while providing a clean and cozy feel. It truly helps balance the light and dark elements in the kitchen, creating a design that feels both fresh and grounded.
Modern Vent Hood
This modern vent hood is one of my favorite budget-friendly additions to the kitchen. It’s made from a simple framed-out box covered in sheetrock, finished with drywall and paint. Not only is it easy to clean, but it also gives the kitchen a timeless, streamlined look. I love how it adds a sleek, modern touch without distracting from the overall design of the kitchen. It’s one of those simple features that makes a big impact.
Glass Counter Cabinet
Instead of going with traditional wall cabinetry, we chose open shelving for most of the space. But this glass-front cabinet was a must for me. It keeps the kitchen feeling open and airy, and it provides a perfect way to display our neutral dishes and glassware. The glass allows light to flow through, which helps keep the space feeling light and spacious. Plus, it’s a beautiful feature to showcase some of my favorite pieces.
Statement Lighting
With the minimalist design of our kitchen, lighting was the perfect way to make a bold statement. I wanted something that would catch the eye and provide some contrast to the otherwise simple design. Three years later, and I’m still obsessed with these pendant lights. They not only add a beautiful glow but also become an important design feature in the space. They’re functional, stylish, and truly set the tone for the room.
These five elements were non-negotiable for me when planning my kitchen. They blend practicality with style, creating a space that I absolutely love. If you’re designing your own kitchen, I hope these ideas inspire you to create a space that’s uniquely yours.