Kitchen Cabinets Designed With You In Mind

Remodeling your kitchen? One of the most pivotal decisions you can make is to involve a kitchen designer right from the very start. While the idea of embarking on a remodel can be exhilarating, it’s also fraught with potential challenges and complexities. However, by requesting the expertise of a skilled designer early on, you can navigate these hurdles with confidence and clarity, ultimately achieving the kitchen of your dreams.

Unlocking Your Vision

At the outset of any remodeling project, you are likely to have a vision in mind of what your ideal kitchen will look like. Translating that vision into a tangible plan requires an understanding for various design elements and a thorough Q&A session with a qualified designer that you feel comfortable with. This is where a good relationship with the right kitchen designer truly shines. By engaging in early collaboration with a designer, you have the opportunity to articulate your vision and work together to bring it to life. A reputable kitchen designer in Central Jersey will take the time to listen attentively to your needs, desires, and style preferences, ensuring that every aspect of your new kitchen reflects your unique personality and lifestyle.

Finding Inspiration

In your quest for the perfect kitchen designer, consider exploring local kitchen and bath showroom near Princeton or where you live. High end showrooms can serve as treasure troves of inspiration, offering a wide array of products and designs to spark your creativity. By immersing yourself in these spaces, you can gain valuable insights into different styles, layouts, and design possibilities. Additionally, look for showrooms that boast extensive kitchen design photo galleries, providing you with visual references and ideas to incorporate into your own project.

Custom Kitchen Cabinets

One of the hallmark features of a well-designed kitchen is custom cabinetry tailored to your specific needs and preferences. While pre-fabricated cabinets may offer convenience, they often fall short in terms of functionality and style. Getting quality custom kitchen cabinets in NJ done right, it is best to have a designer that understands your needs design these cabinets that perfectly align with your vision. Whether you require specialized storage solutions, unique design elements, or simply crave the luxury of personalized craftsmanship, custom cabinets offer unparalleled versatility and personalization.

Attentive Design Process

Creating the perfect kitchen requires more than just good taste—it demands attention to detail and meticulous planning. An experienced kitchen designer understands the importance of asking the right questions to uncover your unique needs and preferences. From your cooking habits to your storage requirements, every aspect of your lifestyle informs the design process. By engaging in thoughtful dialogue with your designer, you can ensure that the final design not only meets your aesthetic expectations but also enhances the functionality and efficiency of your space.

Designing the Perfect Kitchen

Beyond custom cabinets, there are countless other considerations to weigh when designing your ideal kitchen. From developing the right kitchen island design to choosing preferred countertop materials, flooring options, color palettes, and lighting needs, each decision contributes to the overall look and feel of the space. A skilled designer will guide you through these choices, offering expert advice and insights to help you make informed decisions that aligns with your vision and budget.

Careful Selection of Kitchen Designers

In the world of custom kitchen cabinets in NJ, not all are created equal. When selecting a designer for your project, it’s crucial to conduct a thorough search and vetting process to ensure you find the right fit. Look for Kitchen designers in New Jersey with a proven track record of success, a diverse portfolio of work, and a collaborative approach to design. Additionally, seek out recommendations from friends, family, or trusted professionals in the industry. Remember, the success of your remodel hinges on the expertise and guidance of your designer, so choose wisely.

Involving a professional kitchen designer early in your remodeling process is essential to achieving the kitchen of your dreams. By harnessing their expertise and creativity, you can navigate the complexities of the design process with confidence and clarity. From custom types of kitchen cabinet materials to carefully curated design elements, a skilled designer will work tirelessly to bring your vision to life, ensuring that every aspect of your new kitchen reflects your unique personality and lifestyle. With the right guidance and expertise, your dream kitchen is within reach.

Kitchen Materials Designers Love to Work With

In the realm of kitchen design and renovation, material selection plays a pivotal role in creating spaces that are both functional and visually appealing. In the diverse landscape of kitchen materials, designers and renovators continually explore a wide array of materials to craft captivating kitchen spaces. Let’s delve into the top choices for countertops, cabinets, and flooring materials that are currently in vogue among New Jersey homeowners and designers.

Popular Countertop Materials and Their Benefits

1. Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops have become a go-to choice for many reasons. Engineered for durability, they fend off scratches, stains, and heat admirably. Available in a spectrum of colors and patterns, quartz countertops impart a sleek and modern aesthetic to kitchens. Quartz requires minimal maintenance, only necessitating regular cleaning with mild soap and water.

2. Granite Countertops

Embraced for their natural allure and individuality, granite countertops remain a timeless selection. Each slab boasts unique patterns and hues, elevating the kitchen’s elegance. Their robustness and resistance to heat and scratches make them an enduring choice. Applying periodic sealing ensures their longevity and guards against stains.

3. Marble Countertops

Marble countertops exude luxury and sophistication with their distinctive veining patterns. Marble offers a timeless allure that many homeowners admire. While susceptible to scratching and staining, proper sealing and care can mitigate these concerns. Additionally, their cooling properties make them ideal for baking and pastry-making.

4. Soapstone Countertops

Loved for their rustic charm and matte finish, soapstone countertops boast remarkable durability. They withstand heat and stains effectively. Regular oiling is essential to preserve their dark hue and smooth surface. Over time, soapstone develops a natural patina, adding character to the kitchen.

5. Corian vs. Quartz Countertops

Corian countertops, a solid surface material, offer a versatile design palette. Available in a diverse array of colors, Corian facilitates seamless integration as sinks and backsplashes. Non-porous in nature, Corian is resistant to stains and easy to maintain. Corian allows for molding into various shapes and designs. When comparing Corian vs. quartz countertops, both materials have their unique strengths. Corian provides versatility in design options and easy integration, whereas quartz stands out for its exceptional durability and low maintenance, superior resistance to scratches, and heat.

Popular Kitchen Cabinet Materials and Their Pros and Cons

1. Wood Cabinets

Wood cabinets, like oak, maple, or cherry, radiate a warm ambiance in kitchens. They are durable and easily refinished or painted. However, without proper sealing, they may be prone to warping or damage from moisture.

2. Laminate Cabinets

Laminate cabinets offer affordability and versatility in styles and colors. They are simple to clean but may exhibit signs of wear or chipping over time.

3. Stainless Steel Cabinets

Stainless steel cabinets boast a sleek, modern appearance and exceptional durability. Resistant to heat and moisture, they may, however, be susceptible to scratches and fingerprints. Plus they are too commercial in appearance for many homeowners.

4. Thermofoil Cabinets

Thermofoil cabinets, constructed of MDF wrapped in vinyl, present a cost-effective and moisture-resistant option. They come in various designs but might peel or discolor with prolonged exposure to heat.

5. Glass-Front Cabinets

Glass-front cabinets elevate aesthetics by adding sophistication and visual openness to kitchens. However, they may require frequent cleaning to maintain a pristine appearance.

Popular Flooring Materials for Kitchens

1. Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles, with their durability and moisture resistance, come in various styles resembling natural stone or wood. They are easy to clean and maintain, making them an ideal choice for kitchens.

2. Hardwood Planks

Hardwood flooring imparts warmth and elegance. While it may need more maintenance to prevent scratches and water damage, proper sealing enhances its durability

3. Vinyl Flooring

This post has a few vinyl plank flooring ideas to consider. Vinyl flooring options provide affordability, water resistance, and a plethora of designs. Low-maintenance and comfortable underfoot, they suit busy kitchens.

The Importance of Hiring Kitchen Design Professionals

Navigating a multitude of available materials for your kitchen project can be daunting. Engaging experienced kitchen design professionals is essential to help streamline these decisions. These experts possess in-depth knowledge and an understanding of the nuances of various materials. They can align your preferences with practicality, ensuring that the chosen materials complement the overall design and cater to your lifestyle needs.

For those seeking the best kitchen cabinet materials or cabinet shops near me, consulting with kitchen designers in New Jersey that can help is key to achieving the desired results in your New Jersey home. Their expertise not only simplifies decision-making but also ensures a well-executed, visually stunning kitchen that aligns with your preferences and enhances your home’s appeal.

When choosing the right materials for your kitchen involves a careful balance of aesthetics, functionality, durability, and budget considerations. Whether it’s countertops, cabinets, or flooring, each material holds unique characteristics and advantages. Relying on the expertise of kitchen design professionals simplifies decision-making, leading to a well-executed, visually stunning kitchen that aligns with your preferences and enhances your home’s appeal.

Classic Vs Modern Kitchen Design Styles

Whether you are a culinary aficionado or a weekend warrior in the kitchen, the design and layout of your kitchen plays a significant role in your cooking experience. Incorporating classic kitchen design ideas and selecting the best kitchen cabinet materials can transform your ordinary kitchen into a culinary sanctuary. This article dives into the depth of classic kitchen design and highlights the best kitchen cabinet materials to choose from for a stunning and efficient kitchen.

Classic kitchen design tends to be timeless, meaning most classic design ideasnever go out of style. This traditional kitchen design portfolio shows many examples of classic design ideas. These classic design concepts lean towards neutral colors, clean lines, and functionality details that deliver both style and efficiency. For instance, a classic white kitchen is always a good choice. The use of white cabinets provides a clean, bright atmosphere that can be complemented by any color or material choice for countertops, flooring, and your backsplash. Additionally, this neutral palette allows you to easily change or add pops of color according to the season or your mood.

Hardwood flooring is another classic kitchen design element. It not only brings warmth to your kitchen but also creates a seamless flow with the rest of the house. This is particularly relevant for open-concept floor plans. Another classic idea is the incorporation of open shelving for displaying items. While they serve as a functional addition to your kitchen, open shelves also allow you to display your favorite dishes, cookbooks, or decorative pieces, thereby adding a personal touch to your culinary space.

The kitchen island, a staple in many homes, is another classic design element that adds both functional and aesthetic value. They provide additional workspace, storage, and can also serve as an informal dining area. You can enhance the classic look by opting for panel-ready appliances that blend seamlessly with your cabinetry, creating a cohesive and clean look.

Moving on to the best kitchen cabinet materials, understanding your options and their associated pros and cons is crucial. Kitchen cabinets significantly contribute to your kitchen’s overall aesthetic and functionality, so it’s vital to choose wisely. The most popular kitchen cabinet materials include solid wood for doors, plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and stainless steel.

Solid wood cabinets are highly durable, warm, and come in a range of species and finishes. They’re a classic choice, particularly for traditional or country style kitchens. We lean toward solid wood cabinets for the custom kitchen cabinets we design for customers. However, they can be more expensive and may warp in high humidity environments.

Plywood is a more cost-effective alternative to solid wood for the actual cabinet construction. It’s strong, durable, and less prone to warping. Plywood for cabinet boxes can be finished with a veneer of hardwood, providing the look of solid wood at a lower cost.

MDF is another budget-friendly option. While not as durable as solid wood or plywood, MDF does not warp easily and offers a smooth surface for paint, making it an excellent choice for the actual cabinet boxes. These boxes definitely need a finishing ingredient as MDF alone looks incomplete.

Finally, stainless steel cabinets are an excellent choice for a modern or industrial-style kitchen. They’re durable, easy to clean, and resistant to heat and stains. However, they can show fingerprints and scratches easily.

In conclusion, creating your ideal kitchen involves thoughtful consideration of both design and materials. Kitchen designers in New Jerseythat useclassic kitchen design ideas ensures a timeless look that will continue to please for years to come. The best kitchen design in South Jersey is the one that you feel part of. A well-designed kitchen is not just a space for cooking; it’s a place where memories are made and shared. So, take the time to design a kitchen that truly reflects you.

White Kitchen Cabinets with Dark Wood Floors

When designing kitchens, many want to achieve a clean-looking space. After all, it’s where you prepare the meals you serve to your loved ones and guests. Nothing screams clean louder than white kitchen cabinet materials.

Though white cabinets pair well with almost any flooring system, you should consider opting for dark wood floors. A dark floor kitchen has many advantages:

They add contrast to the space

They hide imperfections and debris

They age well

They make your kitchen feel elegant

They are easier to repair and touch up

Various Shades Of White To Choose From

One of the best kitchen cabinet materials out there is solid hardwood. But apart from the material itself, you have to consider the color of your cabinetry.

Note that your cabinets take up a lot of visual space in your kitchen. If you want to go for a white kitchen, here are some of your options:

Off-white. Want to create a cozy, farmhouse-style kitchen? Select a cabinet color that exudes off-white warmth. Off white cabinets have hints of yellow (or brown), giving your space a rustic feel.

High-contrast white. If your vision is to achieve a high-impact, immediately striking design for your kitchen, pair your dark wood floors with high-contrast white cabinetry. They can make your space feel airier and brighter.

Gray-tinged. Not a fan of super white colors, but still want your cabinets to have a bright hue? Cool gray cabinets are for you. They look sleek, modern, and cool. Just be sure to pick a flooring system that has a darker shade that blends well with cool gray.

The Kitchen Is Your Canvas

Is it your dream to have a dark floor kitchen with white cabinets? Once you are decided on flooring and cabinet colors, kitchen décor accents are easier to choose from. There is so much you can do.

As mentioned, you can go for a farmhouse kitchen where wooden beams are exposed, and butcher-block woods serve as your countertop. White cabinets with stainless steel appliances are always an in look. Elevate the aesthetics of the common elements of this kitchen design — such as distressed woods, wrought iron, and soft fabrics.

If you want to incorporate old world metals and modern finishes, white cabinetry works well with a copper farmhouse sink. Brass hardware and decorative metal cookware is also a very appealing look.

You can even be as eclectic as you wish. Try adding splashes of color through your backsplash, and lighting fixtures — and let their colors pop without your cabinet having to compete with them in terms of optics. You can go retro or resort for an industrial vibe.

The versatility of white shaker style kitchen cabinets allows you to have more liberty regarding the theme and styling of your kitchen. 

However, keep in mind that you should  source your cabinets and kitchen floors with the help of a kitchen designer near you and a local kitchen cabinet maker. It is important to support your local suppliers of products and services. We are not big fans of large, big box stores and the quality of service you will find there.

Kitchen Cabinets and Appliances for the Gourmet

Some like their kitchens super simple. Others dream of having a cooking space fit for a gourmet. If you belong to the latter, this post is for you! We’re running down gourmet kitchen appliances and cabinet must-haves to help you achieve your dream kitchen.

What’s In A Gourmet Kitchen?

Generally, gourmet kitchens are more equipped than regular ones. The goal of this space is to help you prepare dishes more efficiently and provide storage for your cooking arsenal and ingredients. Whether it’s your childhood dream to have a professional-looking kitchen complete with custom kitchen cabinets or you simply wish to improve how you cook food at home, this list can serve as your guide for your gourmet kitchen design.

Professional-Grade Range

Before you go on to choose elegant yet functional kitchen cabinet materials, you have to first tick off a big essential to any kitchen — the cooking range. If you want to go gourmet, opt for a professional-grade range that offers durability and versatility. And if you’re really serious about cooking (and baking), you should also consider getting a double oven and a convection microwave.

Sinks

Properly washing dishes and pots is an important responsibility of any cook. It keeps your kitchen tidy and hygienic. For gourmet kitchens, having a deep sink is standard because it accommodates large pots. Undermount sinks are also staples. These types of sinks, which have no protruding lips and are seamlessly mounted under the countertop material, allow easy sweeping of food scraps.

Custom cabinetry

If you look at gourmet kitchens, you may notice the use of cabinets made rift sawn white oak cabinets. The grain direction matters and adds significant aesthetic value to a rather serious-looking gourmet kitchen space. Apart from choosing sturdy material, you should also go for a custom cabinetry design to cater to your unique needs. For instance, you may need separate storage for your collection of herbs and spices.

Gourmet island

Kitchen islands are space-maximizers. A double island kitchen layout screams gourmet. When cleverly and aesthetically designed, it can even act as the focal point of your gourmet kitchen. If your space can accommodate it, incorporating a kitchen island with stools or chairs help family and friends connect while the gourmet chef prepares your meal.

Refrigerator/s

While many smart, stand-alone units are available in the market today, some gourmet kitchen owners also opt for a second fridge (typically placed nearby their pantry areas). Others invest in another refrigerator drawer integrated into the island for easy access to drinks and other kitchen ingredients.

Easy-to-clean countertops and backsplashes

Apart from having long-lasting cabinetry like quarter sawn wood cabinets, you also have to pay attention to the materials you’ll choose for your countertop and backsplash. From quartz to ceramic tiles, you have several options to choose from to help elevate the look and functionality of your kitchen space. You also have to consider their resistance to stain, water, and chemicals, and their ease of maintenance.

Task lighting

You won’t be able to maximize your gourmet kitchen appliances without an appropriate lighting system. Besides having a main light source, you must equip your kitchen with under-cabinet lighting and pendants to help you perform tasks in different zones within your space.

Kitchen Cabinets & ADA Compliant Kitchens

Passed in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark piece of legislation designed to protect people with disabilities (PWDs) from discrimination. This comprehensive law also covers how the kitchen — the very heart of a home — should have barrier-free layouts among other accommodations so that even PWDs can freely and safely access and use it. Homeowners and kitchen designers that want to have an ADA kitchen design, you must pay special attention to cabinets, thresholds, counter heights, roll under appliances and the like which are essential to making any kitchen space functional. 

This article discusses the cabinets that make it easier for a PWD — especially for someone in a wheelchair — to utilize a kitchen. 

Kitchen cabinet dimension. When designing and constructing kitchen cabinets that are ADA-compliant, dimensions are critical. The overall cabinet height should be 32.5 inches. On the other hand, at minimum, the toe kick (or the space beneath the bottom cabinet where the cabinet hangs over) should be 9 inches. If the area where the cabinet is installed also has a sink, make sure that the sink should be installed 28 inches to 34 inches from the floor. 

Placement above the flooring. The kitchen flooring starts from the edge of the toe kick in a regular kitchen. But if you want your kitchen to be wheelchair user-friendly, the cabinets should be placed above the flooring itself. If you resort to a more conventional way, a minimum 9-inch height is required beneath the toe kick will be reduced. Your contractor should install the flooring first before the cabinets. 

Shelf space and organization. An ADA kitchen design requires 50% of a cabinet’s shelving space to be accessible. To maximize the interior space of a cabinet, experts recommend having pull-out drawers that PWDs can easily access. There are also slide-out cabinet organizers that make it easier for PWDs to access kitchen supplies and cookware — they don’t have to reach into the back part of the cabinet because this type of organizer will move toward the PWD themselves. In other ADA-compliant kitchens, cabinets come with a solid draw covering that can double as a cutting board for a person using a wheelchair. We installed a copper farmhouse sink once that included cutting boards are part of the unit.

Hardware. It’s not only the height and shelving that matter when fitting your kitchen with PWD-friendly cabinets. You also have to focus on the cabinet hardware. Make sure that you only attach handles and knobs that a person with a disability can quickly grab. You can also incorporate a railing in your cabinets to facilitate better mobility. Apart from the cabinets themselves, you also have to make doors, drawers, pantries, and even storage bins easy to open. 

Overall kitchen space. Kitchen cabinet makers in Princeton NJ are at the core of a functional and ergonomic kitchen in New Jersey, especially for PWDs — including those who use wheelchairs. However, it’s important to know that, first and foremost, your kitchen mobility lanes should be at least 40 inches wide before it can be considered ADA-compliant. You also have to maximize your overall kitchen space by creating specified functional zones. This means that you have to zone your kitchen per activity (e.g., storage zone, washing up zone, food preparation zone, meal consumption zone) to make it easier for PWDs to navigate the kitchen.

Kitchen Remodeling Ideas That Will Not Break The Bank

You are determined to make your home comfortable, relaxing, and more enjoyable. Most people want a house that not only feels good to be in, but that you can show off to friends and family. Your kitchen is one of those focal points in your home and must therefore be designed tastefully and appealing to you and those who visit.

If you are like most people, your kitchen is more than a space for the preparation of food and the storage of eating and cooking utensils. It is also a place where your family eats and talks every day. It is a place where you regularly congregate with your closets friends and enjoy other social occasions. There is no reason why its design should not reflect your imagination and playfulness. This can be accomplished through the art we hang on the walls, the flooring, wall coverings and the lighting we choose.

Here are some ideas for decorating your kitchen:

1. Hang art

The best way to make your kitchen comfortable and cosy, even if you have painted your kitchen walls, is to strategically place framed artwork, photography from family vacations and attractive wall hangings that have caught your eye. Give your kitchen a culture shock and add some art! This will spruce up your kitchen and may even stir interesting discussions.

2. Floor Coverings are Important

Putting down a rug runner to protect heavily trafficked areas from wear and tear can add color to the space. It also makes for a soft and warm surface for tired and cold feet.

3. Wallpaper Is Not Dead

There is a reason why Lowes and Home Depot have a dedicated individual to help you select wall coverings. Home fashionistas may say otherwise but wallpaper is still very popular. We have seen people choose to just paper one wall or just the bottom 4 feet of a wall to create a chair rail to separate paint from wallpaper. Wall paper give you more color and design options.

4. Wall Sconces & Pendant Lighting

Clients love using wall sconces to accentuate a wall. Recessed lighting can be used in the ceiling for the main source of illumination but accent pieces on the walls add character. Pendant lighting is popular for kitchen island designs and can really boost the kitchen appeal from above.

5. Add a colorful appliance

One of the best ways to add life and color to your kitchen is to buy a mixer, coffee machine, or toaster in shades that are lively or bright. In vogue these days is retro colors for small appliances. Or you can choose colors that are strong and stand in contrast to the rest of the kitchen.

6. Add a backsplash

This can create a wonderful look and feel behind a stove top or over a sink area. Marble hexagon tiles and decorative porcelain tiles are manufactured specifically for backsplashes for these purposes. I have seen a very attractive backsplash supporting a Corian countertops in NJ this month that has reinvigorated my passion for backsplashes.

7. Hang shelves

If there is not enough storage space in your kitchen, you should hang a few open shelves in a contrasting shade to the walls they are on. This is where you can place your cookbooks or even plants and nick-knacks. Shelves not only add more space to the kitchen, but they are also decorative, and will improve the appearance of the place.

There is plenty that can be done with your kitchen. Your imagination and creativity are your only barrier to transforming your kitchen and kitchen cabinets into objects of beauty and perfection. Many homeowners opt for Kitchen cabinet refacing to lift the look of older looking cabinets. Modern kitchen cabinet design has been leaning heavily on shaker and slab cabinet doors. If the cabinet itself is still sturdy, just changing the doors may be a wise option. If you don’t want to tackle the remodeling by yourself, try to find a kitchen design boutique in NJ that can help you develop some new ideas. Most importantly, don’t take yourself too seriously and have some fun with these and other design ideas for your kitchen remodel.

Custom Kitchen Cabinet Ideas for The Younger Homeowner

At 25 years old, my daughter and her husband bought their first home knowing there was going to be a little remodeling required in the years to come. The kitchen was one of those areas that needed to be redesigned to their liking. It is not uncommon for younger homeowners to invest in their starter home knowing they were destined to more up within ten years or so.

After taking some measurements of the wall space and appliances currently in their kitchen, they visited Lowes and Home Depot to check out some kitchen cabinetry. What they discovered was that standard sizes of kitchen cabinetry sold in those big box stores was not going to work for their current kitchen arrangement. But they did get a feel for the current trends and got some ideas of what they liked and didn’t like. 

Here are a few of the latest trends in kitchen cabinetry:

1. Open shelving 

They liked the idea of some open shelving. A combination of closed under the counter kitchen cabinets plus 4-6 open shelves strategically placed is not an uncommon arrangement. There are plenty of advantages to having open kitchen shelving. Open shelving allows this couple to display wine glasses, pitchers and plates. They got some nice wedding shower gifts and thought they might as well show these off. The convenience of open kitchen shelves was also very appealing.

Most of the younger homeowners we have met tend to be minimalists and seek out kitchen cabinet styles that are sleek, clean, and without the finer woodwork found in more traditional kitchens.

2. Playful colors 

Customizing the color and surface pattern of your cabinets is an effective way to brighten up a kitchen design for younger couples. You can work with a local kitchen cabinet maker to create the sleek kitchen cabinets that appeal to younger homeowners. Older homeowners often choose neutral colors such as grey, yellow, and various forms of green. The younger homeowners tend to be more courageous with splashes of yellows and read. If you want a light atmosphere in your kitchen, then we recommend a combination of colors that include a few bursts of color. 

3. Honey Oak Kitchen Cabinets

Oak wood has been the staple for kitchen cabinetry for all generations. We has seen a departure to use hickory and pine during the 1990’s but most local kitchen cabinet makers have returned to using oak in recent years. Not all oak cabinets are the same. You can choose a modern simplistic look or a more traditional rustic kitchen look by using lighter color stains and clear urethanes. The great advantage of oak wood for kitchen cabinet design is its durability and availability. The material lasts a long time and is slower to show signs of wear and tear. It is also quite beautiful. If well designed, your oak wood kitchen cabinets can make your kitchen radiate with elegance. 

Redesigning your kitchen is a serious undertaking. If you are a younger homeowner planning for a family, you may want your kitchen to be child friendly and easy to clean. But most younger couples like to entertain in their homes as well. The modern kitchen design photo gallery shows off some sleek cabinetry designs and open shelving is what many younger homeowners appreciate.

Modern Kitchen Ideas for the Young Professional

If you’re a young professional who owns a home that needs updating, you may be salivating over some of the images you find on Houzz, This Old House or any of the other photo galleries online. From lighting and flooring to appliances and storage, there are many ways to modernize your kitchen. Here’s a closer look at four popular modern kitchen ideas.

1. Flooring

Today’s modern kitchens feature flooring that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and durable. Porcelain tile, natural stone, hard wood veneers and ceramic tiles in varying colors and textures provide long-term function and durability while complementing your other design choices, such as countertops and cabinets. If you’re more interested in a rustic look, you might want to consider wide-plank wood flooring. If you love to cook and entertain, spending many hours in the kitchen, make sure you choose a flooring that gives you the underfoot support and the comfort you need.

2. Countertops

Countertops provide your all-important workspace where you get your food preparation done. Marble and granite countertops are the popular modern choices, particularly in white, grey and black colors. Their natural beauty, durability and easy-to-maintain surfaces make them well-suited to the rigors of food prep but also wowing your guests. As with flooring, you have a world of colors and styles to choose from. Consider pairing white marble countertops with white and glass cabinets for an ultra-modern monochromatic look.

3. Cabinets

Whether you plan on replacing or updating your cabinets, sleek kitchen cabinet styles immediately modernize your space. Clean, crisp lines and neutral colors are the hallmarks of a modern kitchen, and they translate well to cabinets. Consider white cabinets with shaker style doors for form and function, for example. Also, think about minimal or hidden handles and hardware that promote clean, sleek lines. If you’re interested in updating your cabinets but would rather hire out the job to a professional, search online for a reputable kitchen remodeling contractor that does refurbishing of cabinets in your area. For example, search for “kitchen cabinet painting in NJ.”

4. Storage

Proper storage allows you to modernize your kitchen by keeping non-essentials and clutter off your counters. Kitchen islands are a great way to create both work and storage spaces. For example, kitchen islands can incorporate some or all of the following features: deep sliding drawers for nesting pots and pans, built-in wine racks, open shelving for cookbooks, storage for smart appliances, bar-type seating, and cutting boards. If your kitchen layout doesn’t support an island, perhaps there is an off kitchen pantry area that can be reconfigured for more storage.

If these ideas appeal to you, search online for “modern kitchen photo gallery.” You’ll find some additional ideas and details to help you transform your kitchen.

Make Your Kitchen Look Fantastic With Cabinetry for Kitchen Islands

Your kitchen island is not just another place for food preparation. Kitchen islands fully equipped with stools and customized cabinetry can become a place where you gather and the visual centerpiece of your kitchen. Discover stunning kitchen island designs that can transform your outdated kitchen into your favorite room in the house.

Customize Your Kitchen Island

To get the most out of your kitchen island, consider how you like to cook and the kitchen tasks you are currently performing in your kitchen. Envision how you can minimize your efforts if you had another sink for example. Or a place to store spices, cookware and smaller appliances for example. Do you drink white wine? Perhaps a slim wine cooler under the counter would make your life more convenient? Or, you might want to use it to eat small meals before dashing off to the next event. This would require a longer countertop overhang that you can tuck your stools beneath. The sky is truly the limit when it comes to various kitchen island designs.

Get Creative

Kitchen cabinet makers in Mercer County that we work with spend decades learning their craft. These cabinet experts are highly sought after and often do custom work for individual homeowners. By browsing a wide variety of designs, you can select a style that you prefer and make your kitchen island stand out from the rest of the kitchens found in neighbors homes. Perhaps choose glass door cabinets,  to showcase gorgeous cups and bowls that would otherwise be hidden from view.

Keep in mind the ambiance that you want to cultivate. It’s a shame to face your stools away from a large window when you can enjoy the view while sipping coffee in the morning. In fact, you can even go all out and swap the stools in favor of a cozy bench complete with cushions.

Flourish in Your Kitchen

Some kitchen island designs are versatile enough for you not to notice the lack of space after your kitchen island is installed in your home. Many appreciate the easy access to utensils, pots, pans and cooking accessories. Open shelving is an excellent way to create an airy feel without compromising room for storage.

Of course, not everyone wants to be practical when designing their dream kitchen. While kitchen island designs with stools are great, other details such as wine cubbies or concealed columns that reveal shelves with a push latch can be the icing on the cake. You can even design your kitchen island with the electricity and inset to hold your microwave.

No matter your personal style, a kitchen island can be a wise investment. Explore various kitchen island designs in NJ in this modern kitchen photo gallery. You might find yourself making excuses to spend more time in your kitchen.