Out-of-the-Box Ideas for an Updated Kitchen

If it’s been awhile since you’ve redesigned your kitchen, it might be time to give it a fresh look. After all, if you love the feel of your kitchen, you and your family are going to want to spend more time in it, whether it’s to enjoy a sit-down meal or entertain guests. Help your kitchen stand apart from others with these unique and trendy decor ideas that would work well in a vintage kitchen design or a more contemporary style:

Tile to the ceiling
Most homeowners use tile only as a backsplash either behind the sink or behind the stove. But some are choosing to extend this tile all the way to the ceiling. It gives the kitchen an urban, modern look and brings some texture and character into the space. Opt for neutral-colored tiles to go straight up to the ceiling and wrap around windows to really make a statement.

Open shelving
While cabinets are the norm in kitchens, open shelving is being used more and more for both storage and decor. You can store dinnerware and other pieces on open shelving to brighten up your kitchen and incorporate some personality. Plus, you can put things on shelves rather than having them take up room on your kitchen counters.

Sustainable table tops
Going green is becoming as much of a trend as vintage design. Homeowners are leaning toward recycled, renewable and environmentally safe materials for their countertops. Some of these eco-friendly countertop options include cork and bamboo. Not only is bamboo easy on the eyes, it’s also formaldehyde-free and is made from a rapidly renewable source.

Multi-colored cabinetry
To create a cohesive look throughout the kitchen, many homeowners choose to install the same color cabinets above and below their countertops. But creating the perfect balance in your kitchen can still be achieved with cabinets of varying shades. For example, many are opting for lighter colored cabinets above the countertops for a light and airy vibe and darker cabinets on the bottom half of the countertops to help the room feel grounded. Mixing and matching is OK as long as you’re staying within the same color family.

Glass burners
If you frequently cook in the kitchen, you know how dirty your stovetop can get. This is why black stove tops with individual glass burners are so popular. Dirt is not as visible, making your kitchen appear clean and polished.

Brass fixtures
Whether your sink calls for a wall-mounted kitchen faucet, a bridge faucet or a pot filler, make sure you consider a brass hue. This brings a certain warmth to your kitchen and pairs well with neutrals that you would find in both vintage and modern kitchens.

A family space
More and more kitchens are turning into family rooms where loved ones gather to chat or enjoy a meal. To create a comfortable and inviting space for your family in the kitchen, turn your island into a table and use banquette seating to allow more people to gather around.