75 Beautiful Small Modern Kitchen Ideas & Designs - March 2024 (2024)

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to planning your kitchen design. Where do you even start? Gathering some inspiration in a photo gallery is always a good starting point, as looking at different kitchen designs often brings up ideas you haven’t even thought of yet.

Browse Photos of Kitchen Designs for Inspiration and Collect Your Ideas

You can browse through photos of all kinds of kitchen styles, layouts and sizes on Houzz to get started before jumping into any design software or contacting a local professional for help. Here’s a few considerations to keep in mind when planning your kitchen.

1. What Makes a Good Modern Kitchen Design, and Why is it Important?

For starters, you want to find a balance between aesthetics and function. You may have heard of the ‘kitchen work triangle’, which refers to the space between your fridge, sink and stove. You want everything within easy reach when you’re working in the kitchen and look beautiful at the same time. It’s a good idea to take note of both when browsing our photo gallery.

2. Consider Your Space to Determine Your Kitchen Layout

Firstly, consider the space you have, and the limitations that come with it. Do you have a small kitchen and need to maximise your workspace and storage? Can you allow yourself some more space and a big island with seating? Are you designing your kitchen from scratch or renovating an existing design? Which appliances do you already own and what are their measurements? Are there windows you need to take into consideration when planning cabinets? How do kitchen, living and dining areas connect? Depending on your space and needs, you want to use a shape that suits you. U, G, or L-shaped kitchen, with or without island or peninsula? Know your dimensions, plan cabinetry carefully and consider the placement of your appliances. You don’t want to end up with a finished design, only for your significant other to question where the fridge is supposed to go. Consider from the start where your fridge, oven, microwave and sink goes to save yourself from starting again from scratch - remember the kitchen work triangle! You also want to plan the layout of your cabinets. Maybe you’re planning for a pantry and can do with less storage space in your kitchen, so that your design can be one without upper or lower cabinets for a different look. A corner cabinet can be a smart storage solution if you want to keep the look clean and simple.

3. Decide on a Kitchen Style, But Don’t Forget Practicality

You want the style of your kitchen to reflect your personality and taste. We have curated a large array of kitchen styles here at Houzz, from traditional to contemporary to transitional and everything in between. Consider what your cooking style is for a start - Italy is known for its cuisine, so italian kitchen designs are generally popular. Also consider ergonomics - depending on how much time you spend in your kitchen, the height of your counters can make a big difference to your overall health. You also want to consider colour and finishes of cabinets, countertops and splashbacks. Which colour do you want your cupboards to be? Simple, timeless white or rather making a statement in black? Maybe rather a rustic wood? Also consider the colour of your floor - if you have dark floors, you may want to keep cabinets lighter. You could also go for an all-white look and choose black appliances for contrast. Once you know which style you fancy, don’t forget how you will be using the space. You want to keep cooking in mind, as well as how easy to clean and maintain the space will be. How many cooks do you need to accommodate? Do you have kids around? How much storage do you need? Maybe you want to go for open shelves rather than cabinets and allow for easy reach of key items you use when cooking. Again - remember the triangle! Lastly, choose lighting that both enhances the look of your kitchen as well as your cooking performance, providing light in all the right places.

4. Be Conscious of Your Budget

No matter what you plan for your kitchen design, cost is always a big factor. Be sure to plan with your budget in mind. It may make more sense to go for a modular kitchen design rather than custom build. You can save a lot of money if you get at least 3 estimates from professionals before locking in the job. And don’t forget to allow a 20% buffer for emergencies. Once you are ready to hire a pro, our directory will help you find one, no matter where you are. So whether you're looking for an Interior Designer in Melbourne or an Architect in Sydney, you can be sure to find a qualified expert for the job!

75 Beautiful Small Modern Kitchen Ideas & Designs - March 2024 (2024)

FAQs

What is the kitchen design in 2024? ›

The affinity for natural elements persists in 2024 but takes on a predominantly serene form, characterized by lighter wood types. The subdued tones are complemented by contrasting surfaces, stainless steel choices, and darker wood. The result is a sustained Nordic aesthetic but with a softer overall look.

How to design a small modern kitchen? ›

Tackle kitchen clutter by putting up shelves, hanging pots from the ceiling or bringing in a rolling cart. If you're dreaming up a major refresh, consider painting your cabinets a fresh shade (light colors make a small room pop) or install a tiny kitchen island that doubles as extra counter space.

What is the current trend in kitchens? ›

A Pop of Cabinetry Color

While white continues to be the most common cabinetry color, wood and green kitchen cabinets are on the rise. In fact, wood tones are the most common choice for lower cabinets, followed by blue, which continues to be a top choice for island cabinets.

What is the new kitchen color for 2024? ›

In 2024, moody blues and greens are stealing the spotlight. Deep navy, forest green, and rich emerald are becoming go-to choices for those seeking a sophisticated and luxurious vibe in their culinary space. These deep hues create a sense of drama and depth while adding a touch of elegance to any kitchen.

What color cabinets look best in a small kitchen? ›

Lighter Shades for an Airy Feel

Whites, creams, and light pastels reflect light, making the space more open and airy. These colors create a timeless and classic look, providing a neutral backdrop that allows other elements in the kitchen to stand out.

What colors make a small kitchen look bigger? ›

Keep colours light, bright and consistent

Bright white or cream is an obvious choice, but don't feel limited. Light greens, yellows, blues and even greys can work well too. Whatever colour you choose, try to make the cabinet doors and walls one consistent colour.

What is the best color for a small kitchen? ›

White paint colours are also perfect for smaller kitchens, helping create a sense of airiness, no matter how limited your square footage is. Use crisp whites and neutrals to coat kitchen walls and cabinets for a bright and airy space that will hold up well for years to come.

What is the best kitchen layout for a small kitchen? ›

One of the most common small kitchen layout ideas, the single wall kitchen is open and simple. All the workspace is against one wall, making for good traffic flow. It is ideal for any open kitchen concept. It has good prep areas, but is best for one cook at a time.

How to make a small kitchen look nice? ›

51 Small Kitchen Design Ideas That Make the Most of a Tiny Space
  1. Add a prep area. Adjustable Kitchen Cart. ...
  2. Remove upper cabinets. ...
  3. Get custom hardware. ...
  4. Or opt for invisible hardware. ...
  5. Get super organized inside your cabinets. ...
  6. Streamline dish duty. ...
  7. Splurge on fun glassware. ...
  8. Add a kitchen island.
Jan 30, 2024

What are the popular cabinets in 2024? ›

Most Popular Kitchen Cabinet Colors in 2024
  • Green and Blue Tranquility. ...
  • Blissful Blue. ...
  • Blending Light & Warmth. ...
  • Versatile Medium Tones. ...
  • Integrating Wood and Painted Cabinetry. ...
  • WHITE REMAINS KING. ...
  • GRAY'S NOT GONE YET. ...
  • EARTHY TONES TAKE OVER.

What is the most popular countertop in 2024? ›

Quartz countertops continue to dominate the market, and their popularity is only expected to grow in 2024. Engineered from natural quartz crystals and mixed with resins and pigments, quartz countertops offer an unbeatable combination of beauty and durability.

What color hardware is in style for 2024? ›

Black Door Hardware: Bold and Sophisticated

Continuing its popularity into 2024, black door fittings are set to maintain their favored status among architects and interior designers. Black door hardware is a symbol of both sophistication and bold design, perfectly suited for making a striking statement.

Are white kitchens out for 2024? ›

No matter what styles come and go, white cabinets will always be here because it's such a neutral palette. If you can't get over chic new trends, combine the two, but make sure the foundation of your design is timeless. Take advantage of current trends with easy-to-update items like décor, light fixtures, and hardware.

How do I decorate my kitchen in 2024? ›

14 Kitchen Design Trends You're Going to See Everywhere in 2024
  1. All Green Everything. ...
  2. Stained Wood Cabinets. ...
  3. Sinks That Work Harder. ...
  4. Induction Cooktops. ...
  5. Pull-Out Appliances. ...
  6. Drawers in Lieu of Lower Cabinets. ...
  7. Minimal Backsplashes. ...
  8. Slab-Front Cabinets.
Dec 17, 2023

What is the trend in kitchen backsplash in 2024? ›

Continuous Backsplash

Another trend that homeowners are catching onto are continuous slabs of marble, granite, and quartzite as a backsplash. It creates a timeless look whether shinny and polished or in a matte finish.

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