What Is a Contemporary Kitchen?

Sleek, clean lines distinguish a contemporary kitchen.

Clean, open interiors are the primary characteristics of popular contemporary kitchen design. Efficient space planning, an open floor plan, modern appliances and strict adherence to minimalist design are the supporting characteristics that distinguish a contemporary kitchen from others.

Minimalism

Only the bare necessities should be present in a contemporary kitchen. All cabinetry and countertop lines should be simple and clean. All fussy decoration and clutter should be removed, and modern and updated appliances should be installed. Cabinetry should have no visible hardware, and ideally should be constructed with frameless flat panels with little or no decoration. Steel, wood, glass or any natural material is preferred for cabinet construction.

Functionality

Kitchen efficiency is important, but the functionality of a contemporary kitchen is directly focused on the cook's needs and making the cooking process easier. Practical cabinet design and the proper layout of appliances can increase the functionality of a contemporary kitchen. Because many cooks prefer industrial-grade appliances, this style has become indicative of the contemporary look. In addition to cabinet and appliance functionality, windows in the kitchen are typically not decorated with fabric and hardware, unless a functional blind is added to reduce direct sunlight.

Organization

Organize important kitchen appliances in a way that multiple cooks would not interfere with one another. Adhere to the standard kitchen triangle design for the most efficient floor plan. The three major appliances--refrigerator, sink and stove--should ideally form a type of triangle with one another in the floor plan. Since cooks prefer a sanitary contemporary kitchen, proper layout and organization is crucial to the contemporary kitchen design.

Color Scheme

Mix natural elements and textures to create a sleek, yet varied look in your contemporary kitchen. Increased use of stone, tile, glass, stainless steel and wallpaper can be found in contemporary trends. Recyclable and environmentally friendly materials are also making a presence in kitchen design. Don't forget splashes of color through colored accessories. Color in contemporary kitchens is often found through accessories and not on the actual cabinets or countertops themselves. Try purchasing small, colored appliances in a hue of red or yellow. Add a bowl of lemons or a vase with flowers on a concrete countertop for a pleasing color contrast that still maintains the contemporary look of the kitchen.

Lighting

Recessed can lights or sleek, hanging pendants are styles that work well in a contemporary kitchen; an ornate chandelier is too heavy in a contemporary space and will seem out of place. Since the use of glass fronts in overhead cabinetry is common, consider accent lighting with miniature spotlights to highlight the cabinet interiors. The countertop also needs to be considered when planning a lighting scheme. A halogen light will provide a considerable amount of light that can radiate onto the countertop for a more efficient ease of use, as well as add considerable warmth to the space

References

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