If you are keen to add character to your kitchen and not sure how, an eye-catching floor is an easy win when it comes to kitchen flooring ideas. If you are ready to dial up the drama, layer black on black like with this striking all-black kitchen designed by Michael Del Piero who has locations in both the Hamptons and Chicago. Using different tones of the same color is a clever way of adding depth to a design scheme. This layered approach is about working with colors of the same strength so that you can have a more soothing and harmonious effect than you would get by clashing shades, for instance.

It can also be seen on the large kitchen island paired with wrought iron stools to match the black countertop. The bright white elements of this gorgeous kitchen are contrasted by the dark wood cabinetry of the L-shaped kitchen peninsula and kitchen island. This island has a breakfast bar that has a white countertop blending with its white modern stools.

Create warmth with wood elements

Place mirrors behind shelving to make small kitchen ideas feel twice as big. Don’t discount easy DIY options, says Looeeze Grossman, The Used Kitchen Company. ‘Masking off sections of the wall to paint a geometric print or using stick-on mirrors to create a crittall-style wall can add interest while remaining inexpensive,’ she says. Lisa Slack, Head of Product, Thomas Sanderson suggests using a limewash finish on your walls. ‘The stone-like effect allows your kitchen to adopt some texture and project some warmth,’ she comments.

• Broken plan is the new open plan, and small kitchens ideas can benefit from this style of layout.
• Whichever style you choose, you’ll create a memory-making spot for the entire family.
• Whether it’s a bold blue island, a fiery red range, or a vivid yellow backsplash, choosing a statement color adds personality and excitement to your space.
• A modern kitchen is usually an open plan design where time can be enjoyed as a family as well as a space that is perfectly suited to entertaining.
• In this kitchen—interior designer Marie Flanigan’s own—she ensured there were plenty of natural textured layered throughout.

Monica Lavin, founder of the blog Lavin Label, knows how to decorate for Christmas, y’all. Every inch of her home gets a festive touch during the holidays, including a creative way to display her Christmas cards, like draped greenery above the sink. The woven plastic seats and backs on the barstools by Serena & Lily hold up well against wet bathing suits.