We recently completed a kitchen project that is a great example of a solution to a common design challenge. I often get asked, “How do I make my smaller kitchen feel larger and more functional?” Today we are sharing how the right appliances + other tips and tricks make this white kitchen more useful and open with a fresh modern vibe.
Before
After
Switch to Open Shelving
One important change we made in this kitchen was to swap out the upper cabinets for open shelving. Open shelves don’t take up the space of cabinets and so they physically and visually open the room. We chose custom white oak shelves secured with these metal brackets. The natural wood adds organic warmth while the dark metal adds contrast.
Open shelving allows you to showcase beautiful earthenware. In this kitchen where every space matters, we styled our shelves with usable everyday items. To make sure that they were also beautiful, we turned to William Sonoma. We chose white porcelain dishes, glass tumblers, and layered wood serving boards and bowls that add texture and warmth.
Take Tile and Cabinets to the Ceiling
Upper cabinets that leave empty space between the top of the cabinet and the ceiling visually lower the height of the room. Taking them out and instead running tile from counter to ceiling visually elongates the wall and heightens the ceiling, making the space feel airy. We used 6″x6″ tile in Arctic White with black grout.
Stick to Clean Lines
Heavy woodwork and ornate hardware can overwhelm a small space. We stuck to clean modern lines for a minimalist look that maximizes space. We refaced the cabinets, painted them Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace and added a simple range hood. In a minimalist kitchen, the emphasis is on the beautiful materials that you do use–Carrera marble counters with a 3″ mitered edge, oak shelves, bold black hardware and matte black faucet.
Add Accent Lighting
Another trick for making a space feel taller is to add sconces that draw the eye up. These sconces are from my collaboration with Hudson Valley Lighting! It was so fun to use them in this space. The brass adds shine and warmth to the black and white space.
Choose Beautiful and Functional Appliances
In a small space, large appliances are going to pop. We wanted the appliances in this kitchen to look pretty and be super functional. We chose to go with Monogram, the high end line from GE. I like these appliances because they have clean styling for a sleek look that elevates the design. Get a closer look at the clean lines of the Pro FD Fridge and Pro Dishwasher. Plus, many of Monograms appliances are multi-functional which means you don’t have as many gadgets cluttering the space. For example, we paired the Pro Oven with the Advantium 240 Built-in Oven that works as 4 ovens in one including conventional baking and microwave. The gas cook top not only has brass accents that look beautiful, but also has a built in griddle, eliminating the need to store one. In the space, the appliances all have the same crisp look that pulls everything together and complements the fresh modern design.
A smaller kitchen does not need to feel dark and cramped. Smart design can create a fresh airy space that is also functional. Thanks for stopping by today! We have some really beautiful project reveals to share with you this year so be sure to check back regularly. To get the look of this modern white kitchen, shop the look below.
Happy Monday!
Xxo
Becki
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