Redesigning your kitchen can—and should — be an exciting renovation project. However, with all the choices, it can become overwhelming very quickly. I like to say, it’s like going to Las Vegas…So fun in the beginning, but exhausting by the end.

After designing hundreds of kitchens over the years, I have discovered through my vendors & sometimes my savvy clients share new design ideas to consider for a new kitchen.

So let’s get started!

1.counter Splash

If you have never heard the term “counter splash,” it’s simply using the same material for your backsplash as you are using on your counter. It’s a clean look that we are seeing in all styles of homes.

It was once predominantly used in ultra-modern style homes. However, over the years, as many homeowners have moved towards a transitional (basically a combination of modern & traditional) or even a farmhouse style with clean lines, the countersplash has become a popular choice for many.

Here are some of the benefits…

It’s much easy to clean & maintain then tile & grout.
If you use a similar color on the cabinets & counters, it gives you a clean transition from floor to ceiling instead of a chopped-up look.
It could save on costs because there are often cut-off pieces and waste from your countertops that can now be utilized for the backsplash.
You only need to use one installation crew to complete the counter & backsplash.

I suggest using 2 cm (3/4”)thickness on the backsplash. If you want a deeper countertop, they can build up the edge to give it a thicker look, even more than what a 3 cm (1 1/4”) thickness would provide.

Quartz is often a great option for creating the look you want and never needs Sealing.

Consider using counter material for your backsplash.

This will make it easier to clean and give you a seamless look.

2. Deep double drawers

This is a kitchen design idea I fell in love with when I first saw it at a client’s home. Although we were redesigning her black and white kitchen, we kept her island, which had two double drawers and had been updated in recent years. It’s such a great way to organize and make food prep easier, so we decided to incorporate them in other areas of her kitchen. I have continued to add them to my kitchen designs in as many kitchens as possible since.

Here are some of the benefits…

You can use the double deep drawer to store your pots on the bottom & lids in the top push-back drawer.
You can store kitchen knives & gadgets together, but in a more organized way.
You can combine measuring spoons, cups & spatulas & baking deeper preparation items like Pyrex cups & bowls in the bottom.
You can also combine herbs & spices in the top & a flour, sugar & baking needs in the bottom.

You will find that you want as many deep double drawers as possible in your new kitchen.

Deep double drawers are a great use of space.

You can pair up your kitchen essentials like pots & pans, utensils and cutlery or whatever makes your food prep easier.

3. Pullout utensil holder

If you are tired of the clutter on your kitchen counters, the pullout utensil holder is an ideal kitchen design idea. It’s a great way to keep your utensils organized and easily accessible.

Here are some of the benefits…

You can add it to the space right next to your range so your utensils are easy to access.
Your utensils will stay clean & dust-free.
You can organize them better than you can in a drawer.
You can have them in easy pullout containers that can be run through the dishwasher as needed.

Side note, never store spices, oils or vinegars in drawers or pullouts next to your stove or oven; The heat from the oven will cause them to become rancid.

Why clutter up your counter when you can tuck your utensils in a narrow pullout.

This is a great use of space and is easily accessible when you are standing at the stove, sautéing or stirring.

4. Touchless Faucet

When we were renovating our 1893 Farmhouse, we wanted a kitchen that worked well for the gourmet cooking both my husband & I love to do. Since touchless faucets were not available yet, we opted for a foot pedal like the type you might see in a dentist's or doctor's office. It still functions perfectly for our needs but it confuses the heck out of our cleaning girls. We are constantly reeducating them as they have changed over the years.

So to make life easier on yourself, you might want to opt for one like this . It’s a great way to keep your faucet looking its best.

Here are some of the benefits…

It helps prevent the spread of germs.
Your faucet won’t need to be wiped down daily.
The finish will stay looking perfect.
When you are prepping meat, avocados, or breaking eggs, you won’t need to wipe your hands before turning on the water to wash them.

Touchless faucets keep it clean and beautiful.

Whenever you’re prepping meat or slicing avocados, you will appreciate a touchless option.

5. Interior Cabinet Lighting

One of the best ways to brighten your kitchen is to add interior cabinet lighting. We have been doing undercabinet lighting for decades now which is great task lighting ; but not everyone thinks of lighting the interior of a cabinet.

Here are some benefits…

It can make beautiful ambient lighting when you add it to the top shelf of your upper cabinets.
It can highlight some statement pieces.
It can light up areas that are hard to see like under your sink.
It can make it easier to see in dark cabinets like a lazy susan.

Consider a motion sensor where using lighting for function. Switches for ambient lighting.

For more help with your new kitchen, check out my earlier post right here.

You don’t have to implement all of these ideas. Choose the ones that feel right. Mix & match. Add & take away. Just continue to do your research for kitchen design ideas that fit your lifestyle & will make your meal preparation a joy to do.

If you need more direction on getting started, consider my Local or Online Design Services! I’m here to guide you!

Love your home, like I love mine!

Celeste J.