As is often the case with interior design, every detail counts when it comes to creating an appealing kitchen space. Once you’ve decided on the big elements of your space, like cabinets, countertops, flooring, walls, and appliances, now’s not the time to get complacent.
We spoke to a panel of design experts to find out what small features were so important in their favorite kitchen spaces. From contrasting details to personal, artisanal touches, these are small ways to enhance your kitchen.
7 small details that have a big impact on kitchen planning
It’s important to get the key components of your kitchen perfect, but if you want to create a stylish, unique space that reflects your personality, the magic is in the details. These designer-approved small touches will help you master your kitchen redesign.
1. Include curves
Custom white oak and marble kitchen by Morrison Interiors.
(Image credit: Shade Degges)
Curves in the kitchen are one of the most important trends in recent years. For example, a well-proportioned arch can smooth out the hard edges of a cabinet or worktop. Dennis Morrison, founder and lead designer of Morrison Interiors, strongly endorses this. “This kitchen’s arched cabinetry and fluted surfaces evoke a sense of timeless elegance, reminiscent of classic architectural motifs,” she explains.
Dennis continues, “These design elements, inspired by historic craftsmanship, add sophistication and depth to your space. To achieve harmonious balance, incorporate simplicity into your surrounding decor. It’s important to incorporate these features and make them stand out as focal points without overpowering the overall aesthetic.”
2. Focus on the food
Custom shaker painted kitchen with plasterwork hood by Ascher Brothers and custom metalwork by Iron & Wire, Outline Interiors.
(Image credit: 82MMPHOTOGRAPHY)
All elements of the kitchen should be beautiful, including the range hood. For maximum effectiveness, a commercially proven oversized metal extractor will bring it home. “A large stainless steel hood always adds a dramatic accent above a range cooker,” says Jayne Everett, creative director at Naked Kitchens. “Always try to have a hood wider than the cooker to ensure super efficient extraction.”
Jayne continues: “A spacious hood like this should be placed with a reasonable gap of about 1 meter above the hob to avoid confining the space too much.” Create a bespoke look. It’s always a nice feature to install a cabinet cornice over the extractor to enhance it. Invest in a good stainless steel cleaner to ensure a spotless finish and keep your hood clean. ”
3. Embrace technology
Mocha Walnut and Silver Roots Marble Vertical Groove Kitchen by Modulnova, Design Space London.
(Image credit: Modulnova)
Design details that incorporate technology can create kitchen storage opportunities and increase the functionality of your space. Here, an electric lift system accesses the empty core of Modulnova’s vertical groove kitchen island unit, but when not in use, the smooth lines of the surface, thanks to the finely cut marble lid, is not interrupted.
The integrated LED bar rises vertically via a remote control application. It is elegantly and discreetly designed to keep kitchen accessories and small items conveniently at hand,” explains Andrea Bassanello, Art Director at Modulnova.
4. Introduce unique decorations
Custom patinated brass and composite marble worktops by Rupert Bevan. Project by Revson Design.
(Image credit: Astrid Templier)
For something unique, nothing beats work done by hand using skills and techniques honed over centuries. Interior designer Cindy Leveson of Leveson Design turned to Rupert Bevan and his team of metal craftsmen when envisioning an unusual kitchen island with original design details.
“I wanted a river of brass to flow through the middle of the island, winding, narrowing, and widening just like a river would flow,” she recalls. “I needed Rupert to bring my vision to life, and I’m thrilled with the results.” Treated with Rupert’s signature patina finish, the ‘rivers’ cut through the composite marble and course across the surface. Hide sockets when pop-up.
5. Consider custom shelving
Custom walnut, brass and marble kitchen by Bethany Adams Interiors.
(Image credit: Julie Soefer)
We don’t just have kitchen shelves, we also have beautifully appointed, custom-designed kitchen shelves where every detail has been carefully considered. Seizing the opportunity to make a good impression in this small kitchen, interior designer Bethany Adams created a beautiful corner shelving unit in lacquered brass and solid walnut with reeds.
“The beams required a custom approach, as the mounting had to be fabricated and installed on site,” she recalls. “Open shelving takes up less visual space than wall cabinets, and with some attention to design and texture, the central island reflects the reed brass and walnut and becomes a point of pride. ”
6. Think about contrast
Weathered white Zellige Bejmat tiles from Clé. Reclaimed Belgian bluestone, Château Domingue. Project by Eleanor Cummings Interior Design and Ryan Street Architects.
(Image credit: Styling: Julie Soefer)
Blend rough and smooth to create a kitchen with more character, where subtle contrasts come alive. For this kitchen, Eleanor Cummings Interior Design sought a new perspective on rustic design, balancing soft, unrefined elements with a refreshing modern touch.
“Handcrafted Moroccan zellige tiles give an authentic, textured touch and beautifully complement solid bluestone countertops,” says lead designer Megan Phillips. “Organic textures are taken in a more contemporary direction, contrasting with the clean lines of the white oak and custom steel cabinetry.”
7. Incorporate a personal element
Bespoke timber kitchen, Blakes London. Tintin Chickpea Tile, Claybrook. Morrisville Barstool, Wayfair.
(Image credit: 82MMPHOTOGRAPHY)
The diner-style leg detail on this kitchen island by Blakes London was inspired by the owner’s childhood farmhouse dining table. Made from solid pine and stained a light walnut colour, the turned timber leg detail creates a strong focal point in the kitchen, while the 4m long island creates a large open plan room without overwhelming the space. Allows it to be placed lightly.
“Traditional craftsmanship, and the leg detailing combined with the triple-stack bullnose countertop brings softness, curves, and a touch of tradition to the angular new home,” said lead designer Annie Burrows. Let me explain.
When redesigning your kitchen, it’s worth paying attention to the small details. Examine the lines, shapes, and materials of your space and welcome the benefits of advancing technology. Most importantly, it is the small personal touches, bespoke solutions and artisan touches that make the kitchen a unique and distinctive space.
