35+ Kitchen Design Ideas From Top Designers

Between Zoom meetings, virtual classes and cooking, our kitchens are getting more use than ever. Limited shopping trips are also prompting us to stock up on more items than usual, says Ili Hidalgo-Nilsson of Atlanta's Terracotta Design Build. Not to worry. We've rounded up ideas from top designers to help you create a stylish, multi-use kitchen, whether you need it for business, schoolwork, storage or meal prep. In this image, a hidden pantry designed by Matthew Quinn, of Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio, provides versatile extra space.

If you're designing or updating a kitchen, your cabinets will probably have to be custom-made, says Kate Lester of LA-based Kate Lester Interiors, so why not install them all the way up to the ceiling? The upper shelves will be great for items you use only occasionally or seasonally. Tall cabinets with glass panels, like these, can show off collectibles or let your best crystal sparkle in the light.

Designer Mary Kathryn Timoney of Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio — which has offices in Atlanta and Nashville — expects kitchen colors to range from warmer cream tones to soft bursts of color. “Warm tones complement the popularity of gold-toned plumbing fixtures and decorative hardware, while a splash of color adds a light, airy palette and a bit of fun." Her colleague at the design firm, David Cook, adds, "We are seeing warmer tones in spaces where clients want something different."

Although David Cook is still seeing neutrals used for the main space or perimeter of the kitchen, that doesn't mean other colors are out. "Instead of committing to an entire space in a bold, darker color, we may see it more isolated in the design: in an island, a built-in piece or a pantry." Matthew Quinn, also of Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio, expects more interest in black chrome, burnt stainless metal finishes and gunmetal finishes, like the one on this range hood.