Top-Notch Kitchen Elements Preferred by Interior Design Professionals
Top-Notch Kitchen Elements Preferred by Interior Design Professionals
If you're considering a kitchen renovation, you might be pondering over various features to add. The abundance of options can make it hard to decide which ones are worth the investment of time, space, and money. From practical additions like a food pantry to luxurious picks like a pizza oven or wine refrigerator, the final choices rely on personal preference. However, there are certain kitchen features that interior designers highly recommend, as they not only elevate the space but also make your life easier and improve its workflow.
- Kerrie Kelly, the creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab.
- Lauren Robbins, the founder and lead designer of Lauren Robbins Interiors.
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01 of 11## Kitchen Island
A kitchen island isn't just about providing extra counter space; it can also accommodate an additional stove or sink, amplifying its multi-functional capability. "Incorporating a functional kitchen island—or even two islands—during your kitchen renovation will not only provide a stylish and modern design element but also offer a versatile hub for meal preparation, entertaining, and family gatherings," comments Kerrie Kelly, the creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab.
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02 of 11## Entertaining Pantry
Instead of storing holiday dishes in the basement, keep them in a dedicated entertaining pantry that is easily accessible throughout the year. During your renovation, allocate a small space for these items or simply prioritize adding a few shelves or cabinets dedicated to party storage in your existing pantry. "As a strong advocate for using all dishes—from fine china to crystal—rather than allowing them to gather dust, I love incorporating large, open shelving in kitchen pantry design to house various sets of china from melamine for outdoor use to a grandmother's collection passed down, says Lauren Robbins from Lauren Robbins Interiors.
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03 of 11## Smart Appliances
Investing in smart appliances is worthwhile, whether it's something simple like an automated composter or a high-end item like a smart oven. "Integrating smart technology into your kitchen renovation will seamlessly improve your cooking experience, simplify daily tasks, and convert a kitchen into a tech-savvy, functional, and future-forward space," emphasizes Kelly.
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04 of 11## Pull-Out Drawers
If your current storage solutions for dishes and cookware are difficult to reach, consider installing pull-out drawers during your next renovation. "When designing custom kitchen cabinetry, we prefer planning for pull-out drawers over stationary cabinets to increase accessibility for people of all ages, from young children to those with mobility problems in their later years," shares Robbins. "Pull-out drawers ensure that nothing gets lost in the back of deep cabinets."
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05 of 11## Backsplash
While a backsplash may primarily serve an aesthetic purpose, it also serves as a protective barrier for your walls against messes made during cooking. Some interior designers enjoy their functional advantages, as well. "Ceramic tiles are currently having a moment in the spotlight, and for a good reason. These handcrafted tiles add warmth and character to a space," says Robbins. "Our team is really loving incorporating playful ceramic tiles that serve as another layer to a kitchen or bar."
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06 of 11## Wine Refrigerator
If you enjoy wine or like entertaining, a wine refrigerator is an option to consider during your kitchen renovation. "Adding a wine refrigerator will significantly elevate your entertaining experience, provide a dedicated space for storing and showcasing your wine collection, and infuse your kitchen with a touch of luxury—creating a perfect sanctuary for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike," comments Kelly.
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07 of 11## In-Counter Outlets
Although accessible outlets are essential in any kitchen, they can sometimes appear out of place when breaking up your backsplash. "We recommend installing in-counter outlets as they are aligned with the countertop and can be activated when needed, maintaining a clean backsplash for our clients," advises Robbins.
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08 of 11## Pizza Oven
Beyond just making pizza, a pizza oven can cook dishes like fish, meat, vegetables, and bread—providing more cooking space for preparing dinner for large gatherings. "Designing a pizza oven in your kitchen renovation can significantly enhance your culinary skills with delicious, homemade pizzas and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for family and friends," Kelly suggests.
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09 of 11## Coffee Bar
Ready to upgrade your morning coffee routine? A coffee bar might be exactly what your kitchen needs. "Incorporating a dedicated coffee bar area in your kitchen renovation can energize your morning routine, provide a stylish space for enjoying your favorite coffee beverages, and create a welcoming atmosphere in your kitchen," says Kelly. Use it to store your coffee machine, coffee beans, grinder, sugar, mugs, and more.
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10 of 11## Deep Shelving
If your kitchen cabinets are packed to the brim with cookware and serveware, and there's no room for anything extra, consider installing deeper shelves. According to Robbins, deep shelves are a wise investment as they enable you to store items usually hidden away in drawers, such as placemats, linens, and more, in plain sight. This not only makes hosting effortless as you can effortlessly locate and use required items but also reduces the hassle of rummaging around for things: "By keeping the shelves open, entertaining becomes a breeze, especially if everything has its designated spot," explains Robbins.
Deep Shelves
A walk-in pantry is vital for maintaining a functional and clutter-free kitchen. It's an amenity that you'll always find use for. As per Kelly, incorporating a full-sized pantry in your kitchen renovation will provide sufficient storage space for all your kitchen essentials, ensuring a well-organized and visually appealing solution for keeping groceries and other kitchen items tidy.
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- Martha Stewart, known for her expertise in home and kitchen design, might suggest incorporating a functional kitchen island that offers extra counter space and can accommodate additional appliances like a stove or sink.
- Kerrie Kelly, the creative director of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab, and Lauren Robbins, the founder and lead designer of Lauren Robbins Interiors, are two interior designers who highly recommend smart appliances in kitchen design, as they can improve cooking experiences and simplify daily tasks.