When it comes to designing a space that is both functional and stylish, there are a few things interior designers say every kitchen needs. This multi-use room needs to adapt to cooking, dining, and socializing – just to name a few.
When you're designing your kitchen ideas, it can be easy to forget some of the smaller details that refine your space – and they vary from visual elements to those that are more useful. But what are the things interior designers say every kitchen needs?
From decorative elements that offer homey appeal to more practical additions that make day-to-day chores easier, interior designers say you don't want to be without these must-have kitchen features.
10 things interior designers say every kitchen needs
Designing a kitchen is more than cabinets and countertops – make sure you don't forget these smaller details for a stylish and practical space.
1. An appliance garage
Nowadays, there are so many different small appliances that we simply can't be without. From air fryers and juicers to coffee makers and blenders, your kitchen countertops can quickly become covered by these essentials. Unless, of course, you have an appliance garage.
'More and more kitchens are becoming design-forward and clients are attempting to declutter in doing so. As we work with our clients, we opt to look for clever solutions to declutter the countertops but also add ease to our clients every day,' says interior designer Kristina Khersonsky.
'One feature we’ve been implementing a lot more of lately is appliance garages. This consists of a pull-up front, a section of countertop appliances that are hidden (sometimes on a pull-out tray for added ease), and dedicated outlets for those appliances. It appears that the kitchen has no countertop clutter, but really, we’ve just planned for them to stay put behind a closed cabinet front,' she explains.
2. Textural details
Each decorative detail you add to your kitchen helps to create the interior design style and atmosphere you desire. But if you only choose smooth, shiny materials, your scheme can end up looking and feeling rather flat and sterile.
'Every kitchen needs a bit of texture to give it some visual interest and dimension, rather than feeling too flat. Whether it's a textural tile, cabinet grill, light fixture, runner rug, or textile, there are plenty of ways to add texture to a kitchen,' says Molly Torres Portnof, founder and principal designer at DATE Interiors.
Whether you introduce an irregular tile, statement light fixtures, or add a softer edge with textiles, they add not only a decorative finish but a much warmer, more homey one, too.
3. An outlet on a kitchen island
It's easy to get carried away with the aesthetic decisions, but there are a few practical things interior designers say your kitchen needs – and they can make your space much easier (and enjoyable) to use.
'The popularity of the kitchen island has cemented this kitchen feature as one to stay. Don’t forget to outfit it with functional tools to make your life easier, like planning for outlets. If you can pull off hidden ones, even better,' says Kristina.
Island outlets will come in more useful than you might think. From plugging in appliances as you prep meals on the island to charging your phone or laptop as you sit at the bar seating, they'll likely become the most-used charging station in your home.
4. A floral display
Just because the kitchen is a more utilitarian room in your home doesn't mean it should be without pretty decor. And if there is one decorative addition designers say you need in your kitchen, it's flowers.
'A simple arrangement of florals or even a small bud vase adds an element of life to a kitchen. If tons of plants near a kitchen aren’t your thing, a beautiful DIY arrangement with local farmer’s market florals can do the trick,' says Kristina.
In this kitchen, an abundant bouquet has been arranged in a tall stoneware vase, but even something smaller or a bouquet of just greenery would look just as lovely, and so would faux flowers. 'Don’t be afraid of a good faux floral situation either, as there are some good realistic options on the market,' she adds.
There's nothing more classic than a terracotta vase. A large option like this one is perfect for displaying seasonal blooms in your kitchen.
Faux flowers have come a long way – this magnolia bunch is perfect for the kitchen. Plus, you don't have to worry about changing them.
If you prefer something more decorative, this patterned vase is a lovely, vintage-style option. Plus, blue and white is a classic.
5. A cozy seating area
When you think of kitchen seating, you might think of island bar seating, a dining table, or perhaps even a cozy breakfast nook. But why not add something cozier and more casual, almost like a mini living room in the corner of your kitchen?
'We're all familiar with a breakfast bar and built-in banquettes, but what I think every kitchen needs is comfortable, flexible seating. While functional dining furnishings are a must in a kitchen, we use our kitchens for so much more,' says interior designer Bethany Adams.
'In every kitchen I design, I try to leave space for a small, cozy settee or a pair of luxe armchairs – always paired with a petite cafe table for the cups of coffee or glasses of wine that go along with those cozy, casual moments,' she adds.
6. A unique fruit bowl
Every kitchen needs tableware, so why not make it decorative? If you're not someone who likes to add lots of decor to your kitchen (especially if it's a smaller space), making a statement with tableware that's on show – such as a fruit bowl – can make a huge difference.
'Don’t settle for a basic fruit bowl! Go for something special that is textured, colorful, or even sculptural. The key is to pick something that can look good on its own - even when empty! It acts as a decorative item but serves a function when needed,' says Kristina.
'A fruit bowl can tell a lot about the owner’s taste – you can find something vintage or contemporary from an emerging artist. Layer a few pretty cookbooks underneath or upright next to it.'
7. A home for everything
Kitchens are certainly becoming more lived-in rooms, but they still need to be functional. And for Natalie Rebuck, principal designer at Re: Design Architects, 'the kitchen must have a "home" for everything.'
'Keeping the kitchen organized and free from clutter is essential to how the space looks, as well as how it functions. When designing or renovating a kitchen, I sit down with the client and label each cabinet and drawer to ensure that everything has a place, is easy to access, and has the appropriate space,' she explains.
This doesn't mean you can't have anything out on your countertops, it just means anything that is on view should feel intentional and organized. Keep aesthetic pieces on your countertops, such as wood cutting boards or vintage crocks for utensils. Everything else should be organized and have a designated storage space.
8. A decorative table lamp
The lampscaping trend has proved ever-popular, and while the kitchen probably isn't the place to add an entire collection of lamps, introducing one can add a wonderful ambiance to your scheme.
'A table lamp situated on the countertop may not be the most practical or serve to function. However, a table light will add a styled, warm touch to the space. Similar to the function and growing popularity of incorporating decorative lighting in the space such as wall sconces or pendants, table lights add to the overall ambiance of the kitchen,' says Kristina.
'In the evening, this gives you an option to turn on only the lamp, for a moody feeling. To style, add a small pinch bowl to layer in front if needed. A kitchen isn’t only a space to cook; the kitchen is the center hub for family life, entertainment, and hanging out.'
Add a pop of color with this green sculptural lamp. It's not too large, so it won't take up too much kitchen countertop space.
Do you have a spot beneath your wall cabinetry you want to fill? This rattan lamp is a shorter option, so it will slot into shallower spaces.
Slim and stylish, this buffet table lamp is tall and thin, perfect for a kitchen. Plus, the brass base will match your hardware.
9. A variety of lighting
Illuminating your space and adding a decorative element, kitchen lighting is essential in every scheme. From pendants to sconces, there are plenty of styles to consider. 'Kitchens need a variety of great lighting,' says Natalie.
'I suggest overhead dimmable LED lighting, such as a beautiful pendant fixture over the island – this ties together all elements and draws the eye in. In addition to that, it's ideal to have task lighting above the stove, sink, and under cabinets,' she adds.
These different light sources are ideal in multifunctional spaces – task lighting makes cooking easier, while pendant lighting and lamps create a more ambient atmosphere for dining and socializing.
10. Hidden countertop storage
If you're not keen on storing things on your kitchen countertops, interior designer Ami McKay says: 'Every kitchen needs hidden counter storage, either an appliance garage or a beverage center to tuck away all your essentials.'
Having countertop storage means appliances and kitchenware are out of sight, but are still easy to access when you need them, especially while cooking. 'In my kitchen, I have a long tall door that opens on my countertop, and then I pull out the appliance tray which has my coffee maker, juicer, and toaster,' says Ami.
'Above that I have multiple shelves for all the things that I need: honey, coffee, and cups with everything in its zone so it’s right at your fingertips. Since you’ll be accessing this cabinet multiple times a day, you’ll want it to be beautiful for yourself, by adding a feature tile at the back. When you’re entertaining or having a party it can also be used as an elevated bar or serving station,' she adds.
If these things interior designers say every kitchen needs prove anything, it's that both aesthetic and functional details are important for a successful design. So, whether it's island outlets, task lighting, or cozy decor, make sure you introduce these elements to your kitchen.
