Streamlined storage, integrated appliances and plenty of natural light are hallmarks of modern kitchen design. Clean lines and a calm aesthetic also make modern kitchens a popular choice.
Coastal goes contemporary in this bight and open kitchen featuring quartz-topped wood island and light wood cabinetry. Large rectangular pendant lights suspended from a tall shiplap-covered ceiling make a statement, while white floating shelves maintain the kitchen’s airy feel. Honed marble countertops add a natural element, with a soft finish that’s less susceptible to staining than traditional granite. Woven wicker barstools add another casual, on-trend look to the space.
One of the most recognizable characteristics of modern kitchens is their emphasis on horizontal lines, whether in layout, cabinetry or flooring. Flat-panel door styles and sleek hardware further the theme. Stacks of drawer cabinets lined up in rows, or simple full-height glass backsplashes and counters without any pattern or veining are other modern design elements that can be used in the right kitchen.
Modern design often relies on the beauty of the material itself in place of ornamentation, as is the case with this kitchen featuring rift-cut oak and standard 3-by-6 cararra marble in a stacked pattern. Even a basic tile shape like a hex could be modern, when it’s in a neutral color or has a natural texture like this patterned honed marble.
Metallic accents can also help a modern kitchen feel on-trend. Polished nickel and brass hardware, faucets and backsplash tiles all work well in modern kitchen designs. They’re especially striking when mixed with other materials, such as wood or stone.