As is more often than not the way in interior design, when it comes to making a kitchen space that sings, it's all about the tiny details. Once you've decided on the larger elements of your space – cabinetry, countertops, flooring, walls, and appliances, now's not the time to be complacent.
We spoke to a panel of design experts about what small characteristics have been of great importance in some of their favorite kitchen spaces they've worked on. From contrasting details to personal and artisan touches, these are the little ways you can enhance your kitchen.
7 small details that will have a huge impact to your kitchen scheme
Whilst it's important to nail the main components of your kitchen, if you want to go and above and beyond in creating a stylish and unique space that reflects your personality, the magic is in the minor details. These designer-approved small touches will help you to master your kitchen redesign.
1. Include curved lines
Bespoke kitchen in white oak and marble by Morrison Interiors.
Curves in kitchens are one of the most important trends of recent years, for example, a well-proportioned arch can smooth away the hard edges of cabinetry and worktops. Denise Morrison, founder and principal designer, of Morrison Interiors, is a firm advocate. ‘The arched cabinet and fluted surfaces in this kitchen evoke a sense of timeless elegance, reminiscent of classical architectural motifs,' she explains.
Denise continues, 'Inspired by historical craftsmanship, these design elements infuse the space with sophistication and depth. To achieve a harmonious balance, it’s essential to embrace simplicity in the surrounding decor, allowing these features to stand out as focal points without overwhelming the overall aesthetic'.
2. Pay attention to the hood
Bespoke Shaker painted kitchen with plasterwork hood by Ascher Brothers and custom metalwork by Iron & Wire, Outline Interiors.
Every element in your kitchen should be beautiful, including your extractor hood. For maximum impact, an outsized metal extractor with commercial kudos will bring it home. ‘Large stainless steel hoods always make a dramatic addition above a range cooker,’ says Jayne Everett, creative director, Naked Kitchens. ‘Always endeavor to have a wider hood than cooker to ensure super efficient extraction'.
Jayne continues, 'A generous hood like this one should be positioned with a decent gap above the hob, about a meter or so, to make sure the space isn’t too enclosed. It is always a lovely feature to run the cabinetry cornice above the extractor to reinforce a bespoke look. Invest in a good stainless steel cleaner to ensure a non-smeary finish and keep your hood looking pristine.'
3. Embrace technology
Modulnova’s Vertical Groove kitchen in Moka Walnut and Silver Roots marble, DesignSpace London.
Design details that incorporate technology can increase the functionality of your space by creating kitchen storage opportunities. Here, a motorized lift system accesses the empty core of the island unit in Modulnova’s Vertical Groove kitchen but, when not in use, the sleek lines of the surface are uninterrupted thanks to the exquisitely cut marble lid.
‘The integrated LED bar rises vertically, via a remote control application. It’s designed to elegantly and discreetly position kitchen accessories and small objects conveniently close to hand,’ explains Andrea Bassanello, art director at Modulnova.
4. Introduce unique decorative flourishes
Bespoke patinated brass and composite marble worktops by Rupert Bevan. Project by Leveson Design.
If it’s unique you seek, nothing beats work done by hand, using skills and techniques honed over the centuries. When conceiving an unusual kitchen island with original design details, interior designer Cindy Leveson of Leveson Design turned to Rupert Bevan and his team of artisan metalworkers.
‘I wanted a brass river to run through the middle of the island that meanders, narrows, and widens exactly as a river flows,’ she recalls. ‘It had to be Rupert to make my vision a reality, and I am thrilled with the result.’ Treated with Rupert’s signature patinated finish, the ‘river’ cuts through composite marble, concealing a pop-up socket as it wends its way across the surface.
5. Consider bespoke shelving
Bespoke kitchen in walnut, brass, and marble, Bethany Adams Interiors.
There are kitchen shelves, and then there are beautifully appointed, custom-designed kitchen shelves where every detail has been carefully considered. Missing no opportunity to impress in this small kitchen, interior designer Bethany Adams conceived a beautiful corner shelving unit in reeded, unlacquered brass and solid walnut.
‘The beams necessitated a custom approach as the mounting had to be fabricated and installed on-site,’ she recalls. ‘Open shelving takes up much less visual space than wall cabinets and with some attention to the design and materiality – the reeded brass and walnut is echoed on the central island – can become a point of pride.’
6. Think about contrast
Zellige Bejmat tiles in weathered white from Clé. Reclaimed Belgian Bluestone, Chateau Domingue. Project by Eleanor Cummings Interior Design and Ryan Street Architects.
Blend the rough with the smooth for a more characterful kitchen that’s enlivened by subtle contrasts. For this kitchen, Eleanor Cummings Interior Design sought a fresh perspective on rustic design where soft, unrefined elements were balanced by crisp moments of modernity.
‘The handmade Moroccan zellige tiles lend an authentic, texture-rich touch that beautifully complements the rugged Bluestone countertops,’ says principal designer Megan Phillips. ‘Set against the clean lines of the white oak and custom steel cabinetry, the organic textures are taken in a more contemporary direction.’
7. Incorporate personal elements
Bespoke timber kitchen, Blakes London. Tan-Tan chickpea tiles, Claybrook. Morrisville bar stools, Wayfair.
The refectory-style leg detail on this kitchen island by Blakes London was inspired by the owner’s childhood farmhouse dining table. Made from solid pine and stained in a light walnut color, the turned timber leg detail creates a strong focal point in the kitchen, allowing the four-meter-long island to sit more lightly in the large open-plan room without dominating the space.
‘A traditional piece of craftsmanship, the leg detail combined with the triple stacked bullnose countertop brings softness, curvature, and a touch of heritage to an otherwise angular new-build home,’ explains lead designer Annie Burrows.
In redesigning your kitchen, it's worth looking at the teeny tiny details. Examine the lines, forms, and materials in your space, and welcome the benefits of advancing technology. Most importantly, it's the small personal touches, bespoke solutions, and artisan touches that will make your kitchen a unique and characterful space.
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