Even as minimalism has faded from the zeitgeist, Kim Kardashian has remained staunchly committed to the pared-back style. However, one glance into her Hidden Hills kitchen shows why: Kim is doing it better than the rest. With recessed lighting, natural wood, and sculptural sillhouettes she makes a minimal color palette look brand new.
The Skims founder took to Instagram to share a sneak preview of her gorgeous California kitchen color idea, designed by the legendary Axel Vervoordt.
Her traditional cream walls are offset by a symphony of texture. From the brushed plaster look of the shelving and back wall to the naturally grained wooden ceiling, every inch invites the eyes in. Under-shelf lighting highlights her aspirational collection of cream ceramics. Black cabinets, recessed lighting, and hardware contrast the space's lightness.
Kim's space shows that just because neutral shades are a staple of minimalist kitchens, it doesn't mean the scheme has to look boring. Below, discover Kim's kitchen, my edit of products to help you enliven a cream kitchen like hers, and expert commentary on how to recreate the warm modern vibe of her space at home.
Recreate Kim's Look at Home
An easy way to introduce warmth into your cooking space, this acacia wood cutting board is simple but effective. Store it on your kitchen island or countertop for a character and lived-in charm.
These warm yet bright LED strips are suitable for practically any room in the home that needs some illumination (starting with under your floating shelves, of course).
Perfect for housing your utensil holder or simply resting your spoon on, this charming pedestal will bring a rustic edge to any empty countertop.
The Thessaly Vase stands out with its distinctive sculptural form. Crafted from stoneware and finished in a crisp white glaze, it adds a neutral yet striking element to any display.
Add a contemporary feel to a classic setting with this sculptural ceramic bowl. Its flowing form blends artistry and function, creating a modern statement piece that is sure to spark conversation.
This beautiful, modern, cream shelf is the antidote to all of your kitchen woes. Affordable and stylish, it's ideal for storing all of your sculptural bowls.
So, how does Kim liven up her cream kitchen? She starts with warm lights under the floating shelves to bring in warmth and character.
Lighting expert Rachel Morris, from 4lite, explains why it works, stating: 'The beauty of under-cabinet kitchen lighting is that it can have a transformative effect on a kitchen space by creating a new layer of light to add ambience, as well as injecting a new source of task lighting for worktops. Versatile by nature, under-cabinet lights can be used in a variety of spaces, from cooking areas and illuminating work surfaces to alcoves and display shelving, as well as food storage areas and pantries.'
Then, Kim has added a wooden ceiling, which instantly adds an organic, inviting feel. Omar Stoltzfus, materials expert at Premier Timber Frame Builders advises: 'Biophilic design is more than just adding greenery. It’s a craft using materials that genuinely connect people to nature. Wood does that instinctively: you can see it, feel it, and respond to it on a sensory level. People want spaces that feel restorative, not overstimulating. Incorporating real wood brings the outdoors in, creating environments that feel balanced, human, and alive.'
Ultimately, 'boring' design is not about choosing boring colors; it's about a lack of accessories, textures, and mixed materials. With the right approach, even the simplest color schemes can feel brand new again.
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