Fantastic Farmhouse Sinks

Designer James Farmer used a deep red runner to add a pop of color to the white walls and granite-topped cabinetry in this traditional kitchen. A deep, dusky blue island provides additional countertop space, and a weathered ceiling beam adds contrast.

A huge wall of windows over the sink area brings lots of natural light into this central hub kitchen designed to be both attractive and functional.

Industrial pendants are an unexpected design twist in this open plan kitchen, a touch of edginess in a dark, contrasting color. A gray runner helps tie the lighting into the rest of the room.

This kitchen feels very light and sunny, but in a twist from the often seen all-white kitchen, this one layers neutrals like the soft tan walls, woven shades, brown tile backsplash and hardwood floors.

Designer Lindsay Chambers sought to update a classic kitchen with an industrial-country approach. The chevron patterned backsplash adds drama and depth to the small space, while white and gray cabinets give the room a rural vibe. And who wouldn't love the wrought iron and repurposed wood barstools?

The upper cabinets are replaced with open shelving, which provide storage for all the homeowners' pretty dishes. A pair of pendants hang above the island, which features extra cabinets and open niches. Woven baskets underneath the counters allow for easy-access storage.

Most people have two priorities when they're designing a kitchen: counters and cabinets. But Kerri Hoyt-Pack didn't have either of those staples at the top of her renovation list. Instead, she and her husband, Dan, outfitted their 216-square-foot space with unconventional pieces that you might say defy standard American kitchen plans. As a global marketing vice president at Nike, Kerri has traveled the world, picking up unique supplies — and lots of unexpected ideas — along the way.

A farmhouse sinks adds cottage charm to the traditional-style kitchen, while stainless steel sconces flank the window to provide task lighting.

With the open concept plan, the Olivares family can spend time together while the parents are cooking or doing laundry. Amy called the modern farmhouse design, "welcoming and warm" and said "The designers made all of their dreams come true." Ernesto said, "I can't wait to see my daughter smile in here, with all of us. It felt like our home." Breegan chose white cabinets with frosted glass for the Olivares kitchen, keeping high style but allowing to diffuse whatever daily life may bring.

Gray countertops and a farmhouse sink give depth to all the white surfaces in this gourmet kitchen.