It’s safe to say the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. You spend a large majority of your time in the kitchen each day, whether preparing meals or gathering with your family to eat. Thanks to open concept floor plans, it’s also one of the first things guests notice as they enter your home. So, it’s a no brainer you want your kitchen to not only be functional but also beautiful, right?

Over the years, our team has created many lovely kitchens but we definitely have our favorites! Here are 5 kitchen design elements we love from recent homes.

Oversized Islands

In the kitchen, counter space matters. That’s why we love incorporating oversized islands into our kitchen designs. Not only do they provide more opportunities for kitchen storage, but they also offer versatility. Whether designing an island to blend seamlessly with the rest of the kitchen or creating a focal point with painted cabinets or a waterfall edge, oversized islands can take your kitchen design to the next level. They’re also the perfect place to install a sink or to hide appliances like a dishwasher, microwave, or beverage fridge.

Counters with a Waterfall Edge

waterfall quart countertop island

The way a waterfall edge seems to flow right over the sides of an island or kitchen cabinet creates a striking visual effect and adds a luxurious element to its design. This type of countertop works well with a variety of styles but really complements modern and contemporary kitchens. They’re also an elegant way to hide seating under an island or bar countertop, as well as electrical outlets and cords.

Mini Bars

built-in mini bar

For most homeowners, entertaining is a driving force behind the design of their new home. So, what’s a better feature than a built-in mini bar? From dinner parties to weeknight happy hours, hosting friends and families is a breeze!

Two-Tone Cabinets

two-tone painted kitchen cabinets

Painted kitchen cabinets have been trending for quite some time now but our favorite way to add a fresh take to a classic white kitchen is with two-tone cabinets. They’re a great way to create balance and visual interest in any kitchen design. Choose darker shades for lower cabinets and draw the eye upward with lighter tones on the upper cabinets.

Statement Light Fixtures

Kitchen island and living area

The lighting gives a finishing touch to any kitchen design. We love using statement pendant lights to signify different zones within an open concept kitchen. Two spots that can benefit from pendant lights to anchor them are the kitchen island and the dining area. With light fixtures available in many different styles and finishes, complementing the overall design of the kitchen is easier than ever.

See more of our favorite kitchen designs here.