A cozy dining area is the heart of this Old World-inspired kitchen. Its banquette tucks into the back of the kitchen island, and the table looks out onto patio views.

Smart design makes the most of this kitchen layout, perfectly positioning a cozy dining area in the middle of the room, nestled into the curving island.

This kitchen has a clever and unique configuration: A banquette seating arrangement backs up to a corner-shaped island, so it's easy for chef and diners all to stay connected to the action.

The darkness of this kitchen's cabinets is balanced out by the white subway tile backsplash and countertops. A few glass-front cabinets across the top row also help, and are pretty places to display striking glassware.