It’s interior designer Hayley Servatius here, and I’m thrilled to chat with you about one of my absolute favorite topics: designing a kitchen.
Kitchens are the heart of the home, aren’t they? They’re where we cook, connect, and (let’s be honest) sneak late-night snacks. So, creating a space that’s functional yet forever stylish is essential.
Let’s dive into it and have some fun!
Set the Stage for Success
The fridge is way over here, the sink is way over there, and the stove? Feels like it’s in another time zone. Sound familiar? Total chaos, right? That’s why I’m all about the classic work triangle. You know, the one where your stove, sink, and fridge are arranged in a nice little triangle to save your sanity. It’s like the golden rule of kitchen design.
But hey, who says rules can’t be bent to fit your vibe?
Let’s say baking is your thing. Forget the triangle — what you need is a baking station. Imagine having your mixer, measuring cups, and that big ol’ bag of flour all in one spot. No more hunting down tools mid-cookie dough session.
The idea is to make your kitchen’s flow work for you and your unique life.
No Need To Overcomplicate
Simplicity is your best friend. Trust me, a clean, uncomplicated layout feels so much more open and inviting. Overcomplicating it with too many nooks and crannies? That’s just asking for a headache. The classics exist for a reason: Galley kitchens are great for tight spaces, L-shapes add flexibility, and U-shapes are cozy and efficient.
Now, let’s talk islands. If you’ve got the room, go for it! It’s a prep station, storage savior, and social hub all rolled into one. And for those of you who love to host, an island is basically a stage for your culinary masterpieces. Add a couple of bar stools, and it becomes the place where life happens — morning coffee, after-school chats, and weekend gatherings.
Best of Both Worlds
Here comes the fun part: blending styles. Think of it like making a great recipe. You want just the right mix of old and new to keep things interesting.
One of my favorite tricks is to use timeless materials like wood, marble, or butcher block for the big elements, then sprinkle in modern details. Maybe it’s a pop of color in your bar stools, or a geometric tile backsplash that adds personality without overwhelming the space. It’s all about creating layers and contrast so your kitchen feels like it’s been lovingly curated over time.
Color can completely change the vibe of your kitchen, and let me tell you, I could talk about color all day. Want something that’s forever chic? Start with a neutral base. Whites, grays, and soft beiges are your go-tos here.
But don’t stop there. Add personality with pops of color. I’m obsessed with soft greens and blues right now. They’re so calming and bring a little bit of the outdoors in. The key is to use color thoughtfully. You want your kitchen to feel cohesive, not chaotic.
Clutter Isn’t Cute
No one has ever walked into their kitchen and thought, “Hmm, I wish I had less storage.” It just doesn’t happen. So, let’s make the most of every nook and cranny.
Pull-out shelves are a lifesaver for those hard-to-reach places, lazy Susans turn awkward corners into usable space, and vertical storage is perfect for small kitchens. Need a place for your spices, cutting boards, or baking sheets? Think about adding custom cabinetry or even a cute pegboard for easy access. If you want timeless, go for classic cabinet styles. Shaker doors are a favorite of mine because they’re simple, elegant, and work with just about any design.
Add a Little ‘You’ to the Mix
Here’s where your kitchen becomes yours. I’m a firm believer that the best kitchens tell a story. Maybe it’s your collection of colorful mugs on open shelves or a vintage rug that adds a splash of warmth. Whatever it is, let your personality shine through.
Don’t be afraid to mix textures and finishes, either. Match smooth quartz countertops with rough-hewn wooden stools, or add a little sparkle with metallic accents. And yes, art belongs in the kitchen! A bold painting or quirky sculpture can bring so much character to the space.
Adding eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient appliances not only helps the planet; it also keeps your kitchen feeling fresh and innovative.
Reclaimed wood, recycled glass, or bamboo are fabulous choices for finishes. And don’t skimp on the appliances. Energy-efficient models are a win-win — they save you money and reduce your carbon footprint. Plus, they often come in sleek, modern designs that look amazing.
They say the heart of a home is the kitchen — make yours uniquely you.