As an interior designer based in Philadelphia, I’ve had the privilege of working on a wide range of kitchen projects over the years. From historic brownstones to modern lofts, I’ve helped transform dozens of kitchens throughout the city. And in the process, I’ve discovered seven upgrades that never fail to elevate a kitchen from drab to fab.
Implement even just a couple of these stunning upgrades, and your kitchen is sure to become the envy of your neighborhood. Ready for some inspiration? Let’s dive in!
Declutter and Organize for a Streamlined Look
I always start my kitchen projects by working with the clients to declutter and organize. It’s incredible what simply removing unnecessary items and creating smart storage solutions can do for opening up the space! My go-to storage ideas include:
- Install pull-out pantries and cabinets to neatly tuck away all those small appliances and dry goods.
- Utilize vertical space with floating shelves, pot racks and magnetic strips for kitchen tools.
- Create a clearly labeled and efficiently organized pantry — this prevents constantly buying duplicate ingredients.
By decluttering and organizing first, you create a clean foundation upon which to layer in those jaw-dropping upgrades.
Select Statement-Making Appliances
Appliances have come a long way from the days of simple white boxes. Now, you can choose appliances in a vast array of colors and finishes to perfectly complement your kitchen design. I’m a huge fan of using appliances as an opportunity to infuse personality.
Some of my favorite options include:
- A retro SMEG refrigerator in a lipstick red or pastel blue
- A massive copper-colored range that commands attention
- A backsplash lined with tiny brass tiles that mimic woven metal
Don’t be afraid to have some fun and select appliances that capture your unique style. They’ll spark conversation at your next dinner party for sure!
Install Striking Statement Lighting
The right lighting can make or break a kitchen. I typically recommend a layered lighting plan — task lighting for food prep areas paired with ambient lighting for overall illumination. This combos form and function beautifully.
Some of my go-to dramatic lighting ideas include:
- A modern black orb chandelier hanging elegantly over a kitchen island
- Brass pendants lights that cast a glam glow over the sink
- Sleek track lighting accentuating a vibrant backsplash
And don’t forget the value of natural light! If possible, I always try to incorporate windows, skylights or glass doors to let the sunshine in.
Choose Eco-Friendly Countertops
Sustainable design is so important, and kitchens present ample opportunities to go green. I always suggest clients consider eco-friendly countertop materials like:
- Recycled Paper: This has a concrete-like appearance but is made from recycled paper and non-petroleum-based resins.
- Reclaimed Wood: Weathered barn wood adds organic warmth and authenticity to a kitchen.
- Recycled Glass: With its glinting, multi-colored surface, recycled glass makes a vibrant countertop.
Beyond being kinder to the planet, these renewable and responsibly-sourced options infuse uniqueness and character into a space.
Install a Show-Stopping Backsplash
A backsplash is like jewelry for your kitchen — it serves as the perfect finishing focal point. When a client wants to make a BIG splash (pun intended!), I typically turn to one of these eye-catching backsplash ideas:
- A vivid mosaic tile design full of vibrant colors
- An intricate pattern of tiny mirrored tiles reflecting light around the room
- A natural stone slab with gorgeous gray and white marbling
Find a backsplash that captures your personality, whether that’s elegant marble or pop art splashed across the wall!
Embrace Bold Cabinet Color
White cabinets can risk looking sterile or dated. To keep your kitchen feeling fresh, try embracing color on your cabinetry! Some fun shades I’ve used to great effect include:
- A sapphire blue that injects drama into the space
- A warm golden yellow that infuses brightness on even the dreariest day
- A soothing sage green that brings harmony and calm
And don’t stop at just paint — try mixing up your cabinet materials too. The warmth of natural wood lower cabinets grounded by crisp white uppers is a client favorite. Getting creative with color and textures prevents your kitchen from ever feeling flat.
Select Multi-Functional Island Design
No kitchen makeover is complete without reimagining the island. Islands are incredible multitaskers, providing ample space for prep work, storage and seating. Some island upgrades I frequently incorporate include:
- Incorporate electrical outlets to give you food processor power in the middle of the workspace.
- Add a sink so you have easy access to water when cooking.
- Include storage cabinets and drawers for kitchen essentials.
- Opt for a waterfall countertop edge to create leg room for seating on one side.
- Accent the base with a contrasting cabinet color from the rest of the kitchen.
By selecting a thoughtfully designed island that melds form and function, you instantly create a focal point that your guests will gravitate toward when they visit.
With these seven stunning upgrades, you’re sure to transform your kitchen into a jaw-dropping, Pinterest-worthy space! And while they certainly capture attention on their own, I always strive to implement upgrades cohesively.
The choices you make — from materials to colors to lighting — should harmonize to create one gorgeous, holistic kitchen design suited perfectly for you. This requires carefully planning the upgrades in relation to one another from the very beginning.
If you ever feel unsure about how to beautifully blend various elements, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of a kitchen designer. We can help assess your needs, refine your vision for the space and pull together all the moving parts into one stunning, envy-inducing kitchen!
