This 1930’s gem did not have a functional, beautiful kitchen. In fact, many cabinets barely opened, and some appliances didn’t even work. The top priority was to replace the cabinetry, appliances, and finishes in the main kitchen and butler’s pantry for better functionality. The original footprint was kept mostly intact, with only minor adjustments to improve flow, connectivity, and layout. Custom cabinetry was designed to enhance storage, and a suite of high-performance appliances was installed. Finishes like a herringbone tile floor and soapstone countertops were chosen for longevity and durability. The secondary goal was to match the beauty of the rest of the home, with traditional elements, symmetry, and warmth. Details like fluting on the range hood and a unique corbel shape mirror original moldings. Stained oak accents were color-matched to the home’s existing woodwork. White oak cabinet interiors and custom inserts create a furniture-like feel. The finished design blends seamlessly into the historic home, and also enhances functionality for day-to-day living, hosting, and gathering.

Past Meets Present

Judith Wright Design

Bespoke inset cabinets custom fit to the compact kitchen use every inch of space. A custom designed arch over the original stained glass window creates the fantastic focal point.

Riverbend Guest House - Green With Character

Jarrett Design

Shades of Gray

SV Design

This once modest beach cottage was slowly transformed over the years into a grand estate on one of the North Shore's best beaches. Siemasko + Verbridge designed a modest addition while reworking the entire floor plan to meet the needs of a large family. Photo Credit: Michael Rixon

Carnegie Hill Townhouse

Weil Friedman Architects

Weil Friedman designed this small kitchen for a townhouse in the Carnegie Hill Historic District in New York City. A cozy window seat framed by bookshelves allows for expanded light and views. The entry is framed by a tall pantry on one side and a refrigerator on the other. The Lacanche stove and custom range hood sit between custom cabinets in Farrow and Ball Calamine with soapstone counters and aged brass hardware.

Eclectic Kitchen Design

Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath

Kitchen Expansion

Tenhulzen Residential

Layout to improve form and function with goal of entertaining and raising 3 children.

Wayland Deck House

Hammond Design

Photo: Kyle Caldwell

Ireland in CT

Christine Donner Kitchen Design Inc.

A white farm sink amid rich cherry cabinets with soapstone countertops, under an arched window, look as timeless as they were meant to. Photo: Nancy E. Hill

Vintage Galley

PowerSmith Design

XL Visions

Morningside renovation

Level Craft Construction

kitchen and breakfast room

Rasmussen / Su Architects

Halkin Mason Photography

Soapstone + Sage

Walczak Design And Build

New England Inspired Kitchen

Powell Construction

Everywhere you look, there is a stunning statement piece to behold! This kitchen showcases distinct custom-made items, including a striking chandelier, dining table, and a large copper range hood. A stunning copper corner sink, 48” Italian range, and the integrated (paneled) appliances are other unique features that make this space so exceptional. The custom cabinetry around the perimeter of the kitchen is a muted, sage green, bordered by full-height backsplash tile. Perimeter countertops are a light white quartz with subtle black veining, keeping the space bright and providing a low-maintenance, durable workspace. Inspired by the style of New England, we selected brick floors for this kitchen, a design element very typical of that region. The cabinet design balances plenty of open and closed storage. In the corner of the kitchen, there is a roll up appliance garage which conceals the microwave and other small countertop appliances. Another special feature in this kitchen is the bar/prep space where barware and serveware can be displayed behind glass front doors. Conveniently located across from this is an integrated beverage fridge which allows guests to conveniently grab a drink whenever they like. The L-shaped cherry island was stained a warm and rich color, providing a striking contrast to the soft sage tones of the perimeter cabinetry. The island countertop is a bold Brazilian Smoke Soapstone, which harmonizes well with the oil-rubbed bronze elements throughout. The soapstone counters appear dark gray, but a closer look reveals clouds of a brilliant jade-colored green. On the backside of the island there is a rounded banquette that defines this new, integrated dining area. It’s a unique gathering place where guests can be connected to those preparing a meal. A local furniture craftsman built a one-of-a-kind cherry and mahogany dining set for this banquette, which extends from 5’ diameter to 7’ diameter to accommodate a crowd. Above the table is the custom chandelier, forged in New England, the perfect center showpiece!

Pine Tree House

FOLLOW Architecture

Ian Warren Photography

Past Meets Present

Judith Wright Design

Bespoke inset cabinets custom fit to the compact kitchen use every inch of space. A custom designed arch over the original stained glass window creates the fantastic focal point.

Sterling Kitchen and Dining

down2earth Interior Design, LLC.

It is not uncommon for down2earth interior design to be tasked with the challenge of combining an existing kitchen and dining room into one open space that is great for communal cooking and entertaining. But what happens when that request is only the beginning? In this kitchen, our clients had big dreams for their space that went well beyond opening up the plan and included flow, organization, a timeless aesthetic, and partnering with local vendors. Although the family wanted all the modern conveniences afforded them by a total kitchen renovation, they also wanted it to look timeless and fit in with the aesthetic of their 100 year old home. So all design decisions were made with an eye towards timelessness, from the profile of the cabinet doors, to the handmade backsplash tiles, to the choice of soapstone for countertops, which is a beautiful material that is naturally heat resistant. The soapstone was strategically positioned so that the most stunning veins would be on display across the island top and on the wall behind the cooktop. Even the green color of the cabinet, and the subtle green-greys of the trim were specifically chosen for their softness so they will not look stark or trendy in this classic home. To address issues of flow, the clients really analyzed how they cook, entertain, and eat. We went well beyond the typical “kitchen triangle” to make sure all the hot spots of the kitchen were in the most functional locations within the space. Once we located the “big moves” we really dug down into the details. Some noteworthy ones include a whole wall of deep pantries with pull outs so all food storage is in one place, knives stored in a drawer right over the cutting boards, trash located right behind the sink, and pots, pans, cookie sheets located right by the oven, and a pullout for the Kitchenaid mixer. There are also pullouts that serve as dedicated storage next to the oven for oils, spices, and utensils, and a microwave located in the island which will facilitate aging in place if that becomes an objective in the future. A broom and cleaning supply storage closet at the top of the basement stairs coordinates with the kitchen cabinets so it will look nice if on view, or it can be hidden behind barn doors that tuck just a bit behind the oven. Storage for platters and a bar are located near the dining room so they will be on hand for entertaining. As a couple deeply invested in their local community, it was important to the homeowners to work with as many local vendors as possible. From flooring to woodwork to tile to countertops, choosing the right materials to make this project come together was a real collaborative effort. Their close community connections also inspired these empty nesters to stay in their home and update it to their needs, rather than relocating. The space can now accommodate their growing family that might consist of children’s spouses, grandkids, and furry friends alike.

Fall Creek Historic

aaNovo

Sandy House- Kitchen

LDa Architecture & Interiors

TEAM Architect: LDa Architecture & Interiors Builder: 41 Degrees North Construction, Inc. Landscape Architect: Wild Violets (Landscape and Garden Design on Martha's Vineyard) Photographer: Sean Litchfield Photography

Bell Mountain

Amity Worrel & Co.

Kitchen with Soapstone Benchtops Design Ideas

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to planning your kitchen design. Where do you even start? Gathering some inspiration in a photo gallery is always a good starting point, as looking at different kitchen designs often brings up ideas you haven’t even thought of yet.

Browse Photos of Kitchen Designs for Inspiration and Collect Your Ideas

You can browse through photos of all kinds of kitchen styles, layouts and sizes on Houzz to get started before jumping into any design software or contacting a local professional for help. Here’s a few considerations to keep in mind when planning your kitchen.

1. What Makes a Good Kitchen Design, and Why is it Important?

For starters, you want to find a balance between aesthetics and function. You may have heard of the ‘kitchen work triangle’, which refers to the space between your fridge, sink and stove. You want everything within easy reach when you’re working in the kitchen and look beautiful at the same time. It’s a good idea to take note of both when browsing our photo gallery.

2. Consider Your Space to Determine Your Kitchen Layout

Firstly, consider the space you have, and the limitations that come with it. Do you have a small kitchen and need to maximise your workspace and storage? Can you allow yourself some more space and a big island with seating? Are you designing your kitchen from scratch or renovating an existing design? Which appliances do you already own and what are their measurements? Are there windows you need to take into consideration when planning cabinets? How do kitchen, living and dining areas connect? Depending on your space and needs, you want to use a shape that suits you. U, G, or L-shaped kitchen, with or without island or peninsula? Know your dimensions, plan cabinetry carefully and consider the placement of your appliances. You don’t want to end up with a finished design, only for your significant other to question where the fridge is supposed to go. Consider from the start where your fridge, oven, microwave and sink goes to save yourself from starting again from scratch - remember the kitchen work triangle! You also want to plan the layout of your cabinets. Maybe you’re planning for a pantry and can do with less storage space in your kitchen, so that your design can be one without upper or lower cabinets for a different look. A corner cabinet can be a smart storage solution if you want to keep the look clean and simple.

3. Decide on a Kitchen Style, But Don’t Forget Practicality

You want the style of your kitchen to reflect your personality and taste. We have curated a large array of kitchen styles here at Houzz, from traditional to contemporary to transitional and everything in between. Consider what your cooking style is for a start - Italy is known for its cuisine, so italian kitchen designs are generally popular. Also consider ergonomics - depending on how much time you spend in your kitchen, the height of your counters can make a big difference to your overall health. You also want to consider colour and finishes of cabinets, countertops and splashbacks. Which colour do you want your cupboards to be? Simple, timeless white or rather making a statement in black? Maybe rather a rustic wood? Also consider the colour of your floor - if you have dark floors, you may want to keep cabinets lighter. You could also go for an all-white look and choose black appliances for contrast. Once you know which style you fancy, don’t forget how you will be using the space. You want to keep cooking in mind, as well as how easy to clean and maintain the space will be. How many cooks do you need to accommodate? Do you have kids around? How much storage do you need? Maybe you want to go for open shelves rather than cabinets and allow for easy reach of key items you use when cooking. Again - remember the triangle! Lastly, choose lighting that both enhances the look of your kitchen as well as your cooking performance, providing light in all the right places.

4. Be Conscious of Your Budget

No matter what you plan for your kitchen design, cost is always a big factor. Be sure to plan with your budget in mind. It may make more sense to go for a modular kitchen design rather than custom build. You can save a lot of money if you get at least 3 estimates from professionals before locking in the job. And don’t forget to allow a 20% buffer for emergencies. Once you are ready to hire a pro, our directory will help you find one, no matter where you are. So whether you're looking for an Interior Designer in Melbourne or an Architect in Sydney, you can be sure to find a qualified expert for the job!