1. Open Shelving and Smart Storage Solutions
Kitchens are the heart of the home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick breakfast, the space needs to be both functional and beautiful. When designing kitchens we try to find the balance between practicality and style by combining modern aesthetics with functional features that make everyday tasks easier. In today’s post we show five ways to achieve both form and function when designing a kitchen.
SHOP OUR DESERT SHORES PROJECT HERE
One of the first things you’ll notice in our kitchen designs is the use of open shelving and strategic storage. In modern kitchens, it’s all about using space efficiently without sacrificing style. We often integrate open shelves to create an airy, minimalist feel, while still maintaining accessibility to frequently used items.
As seen above in our Desert Shores Project, the clean lines and neutral tones of this kitchen are enhanced by open shelves that allow easy access to everyday items like plates, bowls, and glassware. What sets this kitchen apart is the seamless blend of function and beauty. The shelves aren’t just practical; they’re styled with curated items like vases, bowls, and cookware that add personality to the space.
To make this work in your kitchen, we advise incorporating deep drawers and concealed cabinets to keep larger kitchen gadgets and supplies tucked away and organized.
Design Tip: Keep your open shelving to items you actually use and want to showcase. For anything else, use well-organized cabinetry.
2. Custom Islands with Built-in Storage
Kitchen islands are more than just a place to prep meals—they can be the centerpiece of your kitchen design. We often incorporate custom islands that double as functional storage units. From built-in pull-out drawers to extra counter space, the kitchen island becomes a versatile feature that can solve many common kitchen storage problems.
SHOP OUR ROSEMARY PROJECT HERE
In the kitchen of our Bellota Project, the island is both very beautiful and highly functional. The light wood tones give a soft, welcoming vibe, and the spacious surface area offers plenty of room for meal prep, while also concealing clever storage solutions beneath. This island design could easily house everything from extra pots and pans to baking sheets and cutting boards with visible and discreet under counter storage.
Design Tip: A kitchen island with additional storage, such as hidden drawers or cabinets, can provide both a functional workspace and additional storage without crowding the kitchen.
3. Integrated Appliances for a Sleek Look
Gone are the days when large, bulky kitchen appliances dominate the design. We love to integrate appliances that blend seamlessly into the kitchen’s overall aesthetic, keeping the space looking sleek and clutter-free. Built-in refrigerators, dishwashers, and even microwaves are all options that help achieve a minimalist look while still maintaining top-notch functionality.
In our Pura Vista project, the appliances are neatly tucked into cabinetry, giving the space a smooth, cohesive look. There are no jarring appliances or mismatched finishes here—just beautifully integrated systems that make the kitchen feel more spacious and streamlined.
Design Tip: If you’re renovating, consider integrated or built-in appliances to give your kitchen a more polished and seamless appearance. These solutions may also save you space and reduce visual clutter.
SHOP OUR PURA VISTA PROJECT HERE
4. Lighting That Enhances Functionality
Lighting is a crucial element of any functional kitchen. With this in mind you will see examples of layered kitchen lighting in our designs—task lighting for workspaces, ambient lighting for overall illumination, and accent lighting to highlight key features. This combination ensures that every corner of the kitchen is properly lit, making it easier to work while also creating a welcoming atmosphere.
In this image of out Elevated Views project, a combination of pendant lights over the island, unique sconces and recessed lighting creates a well-lit, inviting space with character. The key is to use lighting that’s both functional and decorative, ensuring that it doesn’t overpower the design but complements the space beautifully.
Design Tip: When planning your kitchen lighting, think about the tasks you perform most often. Bright task lighting is essential for food prep, while softer ambient lighting can help create a relaxed atmosphere.
SHOP OUR ELEVATED VIEWS PROJECT.
5. Neutral Palettes with Pops of Texture
The foundation for our designs start with neutral color palettes, which provide a timeless backdrop to any kitchen. But they don’t stop there. Texture is key to adding depth and personality to the space. From sleek marble or marble like countertops to warm wooden accents and woven elements, we like to combine textures to create a kitchen that feels both inviting and functional.
Our Beach Front kitchen features beautiful marble like countertops that are not only a durable surface for food prep but also an elegant design element. From countertop to ceiling, we tiled using Bedrosians Allora Tile in Solid White. Tiling to the ceiling instead of stopping at the bottom of the upper cabinets creates a high end look. The addition of warm wood tones in the cabinetry and shelving adds contrast, giving the kitchen depth and warmth.
Design Tip: A neutral palette can help your kitchen feel calm and sophisticated, but adding varying textures—like stone, wood, and metals—will keep the space from feeling flat and one-dimensional.
Summit Creek Project – Rebekah Westover Photography
Today we have shown that functionality and style don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Integration of smart storage, custom design features, and stylish accents offer a blueprint for anyone looking to transform their kitchen into a space that works as well as it looks.
By focusing on both practicality and aesthetics, you can create a kitchen that’s not only a pleasure to cook in but also a space that enhances your daily life. Whether you’re updating your current space or embarking on a full remodel, Becki Owens’ designs serve as the perfect inspiration to help you maximize your kitchen’s potential.
Thanks for stopping by.
Xxo
Becki
