A Dallas kitchen designed by Chad Dorsey and built by More Design Build.
Practical Kitchen Design Tips from Trusted Experts in the Industry
Designing a kitchen can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it can be a fun and enjoyable process. In this article, we’ve gathered advice from five trusted professionals in the industry who share their top tips for creating a beautiful and functional kitchen.
Whether you’re embarking on a full renovation or simply looking to refresh your space, it’s good to have some of the best designers on speed dial who can weigh in with some do’s and don’ts and share their coveted insight on all things kitchens. These principals share some of the best kitchen interior design tips for optimal performance and functionality.
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Chad Dorsey
Consider a Working Pantry in Your Kitchen
“Having a scullery has become the new rage with all of my clients. A beautiful, functional kitchen for entertaining and cooking is great, but we all need a space to keep out the blender, toaster, and room to bake! This is where the working pantry comes in, a separate place to keep all of the countertop appliances that we use daily. Additionally, a sink and a dishwasher is an important feature, too, so during a dinner party all the dirty dishes can be out of sight.”
Related Post: Open Shelving Ideas That Wow—From Kitchen To Pantry
PHOTO: CODY ULRICH
Jean Liu
Play Up The Red Kitchen Island
“All our eyes are on the island. We predict islands taking center stage and becoming even more-so the focal point—both in form and function—of the kitchen. A kitchen island should go beyond housing appliances and offering bar seating but also be ready to serve as a home office or virtual learning hub. Whereas kitchen design in the past may have relied on cabinet styles, paint colors, or decorative lighting to set the tone for the room, look to the islands this coming year to take on that role.”
Related Post: Kitchen Island Ideas With Stylish Seating Solutions
PHOTO: STEPHEN KARLISCH
Jay Jeffers
Make It Fun + Dynamic: Kitchen Colors and Textures
“My top kitchen design tip is to play with a variety of colors and textures. Many kitchens lack creativity and inspiration, yet they’re one of the rooms we spend the most time—particularly these days—so they should be warm, inviting, and fun. Richly colored cabinets, interesting upholstery on bar stools and banquets, and dynamic modern light fixtures are some of my favorite ways to bring bold and unexpected moments into the heart of the home.”
Related Post: Design A Functional And Soiree-Ready Kitchen With These Pro Tips
PHOTO: MATTHEW MILLMAN
Michelle Lisac
Add Some Wood + Colorful Cabinetry to Your Kitchen
“While I love a white kitchen, I also have a deep love for wood and colorful cabinetry. I never want a kitchen feeling too stark or sterile! A wood element, whether in the cabinets, floating shelves or an accent, always helps to warm up a kitchen. It’s important to have natural materials in a space even if it is a very utilitarian space.”
Related Post: Kitchen Design Trends Designers Can’t Get Enough Of
PHOTO: JENNI CORTI
Marie Flanigan
Focus On Bright Lighting in the Kitchen
“A poorly-lit kitchen is unappealing and can make tasks—like cooking—difficult. It’s important to strike the right balance of lighting types. Before choosing fixtures, evaluate how much natural light enters the kitchen and what areas appear dark. Mix general lighting (like flush mounts and cans), with task lighting (like pendants and directional spots), to illuminate the entire space.”
Related Post: Kitchen Lighting Tips Designers Swear By
PHOTO: JULIE SOEFER
For more on the best kitchen design tips and other related content, make sure to tune into Luxe’s Kitchen + Bath for the latest news and trends.
