Kitchen Design Ideas from Our Favorite Designers
By / November 1, 2025 October 17, 2025
Kitchen Design Ideas for Your Next Remodel
Searching for kitchen design ideas should always be your first step in a renovation so you know all of the different things that are possible with modern cabinetry and design. At Kountry Kraft, we’re fortunate to collaborate with incredibly talented designers across the country, each bringing a unique perspective to cabinetry, layout, and craftsmanship. From timeless wood finishes to modern range hoods, the projects below showcase unique modern kitchen design ideas that can inspire your own trendy kitchen remodel ideas.
Kitchen Design Ideas from Our Favorite Designers
Whether you love the charm of a classic butler’s pantry, the warmth of natural wood, or the contrast of matte black cabinetry, these design highlights demonstrate how thoughtful planning and custom cabinetry can transform everyday spaces into extraordinary kitchens.
A Home Designed for Entertaining by Shawn Preis, Kountry Kraft
Few spaces illustrate the art of entertaining as beautifully as this custom kitchen and butler’s pantry in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Designed by Kountry Kraft’s own Shawn Preis, this project balances timeless style with everyday performance.
Butler’s Pantry with Built-In Coffee Station
Homeowners searching for butler’s pantry ideas or built-in coffee station inspiration will find plenty to love here. The butler’s pantry serves as a private hub for beverage prep, outfitted with Benjamin Moore Grappa cabinetry, glass-front uppers, and a Miele built-in coffee machine. This layout keeps the main kitchen clutter-free while giving guests a luxurious way to enjoy espresso or cappuccino. It’s a perfect example of how luxury pantry design can merge form and function in one elegant space.
Layered Lighting and Finishes to Define Connected Spaces
Homeowners searching for kitchen lighting ideas or kitchen and pantry design inspiration will appreciate how this Villanova project uses light and finish to establish atmosphere. The main kitchen’s Benjamin Moore White Dove cabinetry reflects natural and recessed light for a soft, welcoming glow, while the adjoining butler’s pantry in Benjamin Moore Grappa offers a moodier tone illuminated by glass-front uppers and mirrored backsplash. This approach shows how strategic lighting and finish selection can distinguish adjoining spaces—bright and airy for cooking, rich and intimate for service—while maintaining a cohesive kitchen renovation aesthetic that feels curated and connected.
Large Kitchen Island with Butcher Block and Prep Sink
If you’re exploring large kitchen island ideas for your remodel, this space offers a masterclass in multifunctional design. The oversized island features a butcher block countertop, integrated prep sink, and ample storage drawers. These details transform the island into a true workhorse—ideal for everyday meals, party prep, and social gatherings. For homeowners searching kitchen island with prep sink or butcher block countertop ideas, this feature proves that practicality and sophistication can blend seamlessly in one centerpiece.
A Sophisticated Kitchen Remodel by Pksurroundings
In this kitchen renovation near Exeter, New Hampshire, PKsurroundings designed a space that feels rooted in tradition but updated for today’s lifestyle. The contrast of warm wood tones, layered finishes, and architectural details offers a wealth of timeless kitchen remodel ideas to draw inspiration from.
Two-Toned Custom Wood Cabinets
One of the most enduring kitchen design ideas homeowners search for is two-toned kitchen cabinets—a look that adds contrast and depth while showcasing craftsmanship. In this design, custom wood cabinetry takes center stage with a refined pairing: painted Hard Maple uppers in Valley Forge Tan and Quarter Sawn White Oak bases finished in a deep, custom stain. This blend of painted and stained wood creates visual balance—light tones that open the room above, grounded by the richness of oak below. For those exploring custom wood kitchen cabinets or white oak kitchen cabinets, this design shows how mixing materials and finishes brings warmth, texture, and timeless appeal to a modern kitchen renovation.
Brass Range Hood with Marble Backsplash as a Focal Point
For homeowners exploring modern range hood ideas or brass kitchen accents, this Exeter kitchen offers a perfect example of how to turn function into art. A custom brass vent hood, ribbed and finished with an artisanal patina, crowns a Wolf stainless steel range and sets a luxurious tone. Behind it, a marble backsplash with soft veining extends to the ceiling, adding subtle movement and timeless elegance. Together, these elements create a stunning focal wall that blends performance and sophistication—proof that a well-designed cooking zone can be as visually striking as it is practical in any kitchen renovation.
Brick Accent Wall and Herringbone Wood Floor
Architectural texture takes center stage here. An exposed brick wall adds heritage and warmth, while herringbone-patterned wood flooring introduces rhythm and refinement. Homeowners searching for brick kitchen wall ideas, herringbone kitchen floor designs, or rustic modern kitchen ideas can see how these materials create tactile layers that balance modern cabinetry with historic charm. These surfaces make the kitchen feel both lived-in and luxuriously detailed.
A Contemporary Custom Kitchen by Cabry Design
Designed by Cabry Design, this modern kitchen in Knoxville, Tennessee captures everything homeowners want in a unique modern kitchen design: natural light, smart storage, and effortless style. Crafted with Kountry Kraft’s custom cabinetry, it’s a study in how clean lines and warm materials can coexist beautifully.
Rift Cut White Oak and Matte Black Cabinets
When it comes to two-toned kitchen cabinets, few combinations feel as enduring as this one. The designer paired Rift Cut White Oak cabinetry with a Benjamin Moore Black Panther range hood and accents to create visual balance and contemporary appeal. For anyone exploring modern black kitchen ideas or rift cut white oak cabinets, this palette offers a sophisticated balance of natural and industrial elements that never feels too trendy.
Hidden Storage and Integrated Appliances
A hallmark of modern design is discretion, and this space definitely delivers hidden kitchen storage ideas that make daily life simpler. Features like an integrated microwave drawer, recessed paper towel holder, and built-in beverage bar keep clutter out of sight while maintaining accessibility. For homeowners researching integrated kitchen appliances or modern kitchen design ideas, this project demonstrates how seamless functionality defines the next generation of kitchen layouts.
Contemporary Range Hood and Vertical Design Accents
The bold, black range hood with vertical paneling commands attention without overwhelming the space. Its geometry mirrors the tall cabinetry and black-framed windows, reinforcing the kitchen’s architectural height. Homeowners looking for modern range hood ideas, black range hood designs, or ways to enhance vertical kitchen design will see how subtle alignment of elements can visually expand a room while maintaining harmony.
Inspired Kitchen Design Ideas for Every Home
These kitchen design ideas from our favorite designers prove that beautiful kitchens come in many forms. Each project reflects a collaboration between homeowner, designer, and Kountry Kraft craftsmanship, resulting in kitchens that are as functional as they are breathtaking.
Looking for more kitchen design ideas? Experience the craftsmanship, creativity, and custom details behind every Kountry Kraft project. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Houzz for ongoing design highlights and stories from our clients and designers.
Partner with Kountry Kraft for Custom Cabinetry
For over six decades, Kountry Kraft has partnered with designers across the United States to craft custom cabinetry that turns kitchen design ideas into reality. These partnerships ensure that every Kountry Kraft kitchen reflects not just superior craftsmanship, but also the personalized guidance our clients deserve.
Simply use our Find a Dealer tool to connect with one of our trusted designers and begin your project with confidence. Each authorized Kountry Kraft dealer has the expertise to guide you through every step—from inspiration and planning to selecting the perfect finishes and custom cabinetry styles. Whether you’re dreaming of a full kitchen renovation or exploring unique modern kitchen design ideas for your home, our network of professionals will help bring your vision to life with precision, craftsmanship, and care.
Conclusion
We’re proud to showcase these kitchen design ideas that highlight the creativity and expertise of the talented designers collaborate with. Each project proves that thoughtful design and custom craftsmanship can transform any space into a kitchen that’s both beautiful and built for real life. When you’re ready to start your own kitchen renovation, contact one of our design experts today to learn how we can bring your kitchen design ideas to life!
FAQ: Kitchen Design Ideas
What are the best kitchen design ideas for small spaces?
The best kitchen design ideas for small spaces focus on maximizing storage and light. Choose tall cabinets, reflective finishes, and compact, multi-purpose zones that create flow and openness.
To enhance both form and function, extend cabinetry to the ceiling, add under-cabinet lighting, and use lighter colors like white or cream to expand the feel of the room. Smart storage accessories—pull-outs, corner carousels, and drawer dividers—keep every inch efficient without sacrificing style.
How do I budget for a kitchen renovation?
Plan your kitchen renovation budget around priorities. Custom cabinetry typically accounts for about half of total costs, followed by appliances, counters, and lighting.
To set realistic expectations, assign 40–50% for cabinetry, 15–20% for appliances, and 10–15% for countertops. Keep a 10–15% contingency for surprises. Partnering with a designer helps align spending with long-term value, ensuring your investment balances beauty, quality, and practicality.
What is the typical timeline for a full kitchen remodel?
A full kitchen remodel usually takes 8–16 weeks after design approval. Timelines vary depending on project scope, materials, and custom cabinetry lead times.
The process includes design and measurement, cabinet production, demolition, installation, and finishing work. Custom cabinetry, like Kountry Kraft’s, adds precision and personalization—resulting in a longer fabrication phase but an outcome tailored to your home’s architecture and lifestyle.
Can I mix painted and stained wood cabinets?
Yes—mixing painted and stained wood cabinets adds character and depth. Light uppers and darker bases are a timeless, two-tone design choice.
For example, painted maple uppers brighten the space, while stained oak bases introduce warmth and contrast. The look pairs beautifully in open-concept kitchens and can highlight custom craftsmanship. Two-tone cabinetry remains one of today’s most requested trendy kitchen remodel ideas because it offers versatility and visual dimension.
What lighting strategies work best in a kitchen?
Layered lighting creates flexibility and ambiance in any kitchen. Combine ambient, task, and accent fixtures for balanced illumination.
Recessed lights brighten the overall space, while pendants highlight islands and under-cabinet lights support meal prep. Add accent lighting inside glass cabinets or under toe kicks for depth. A layered approach not only improves functionality but also highlights finishes and architectural details—key to modern kitchen design ideas.
How do I create a focal point in my kitchen?
Every great kitchen design includes one focal point that anchors the room. This could be a statement range hood, bold backsplash, or standout island.
Choose one defining feature and let the surrounding cabinetry and finishes enhance it. For example, a brass or black metal hood framed by calm cabinetry creates instant balance. A clear focal point provides visual direction and sophistication in any kitchen renovation.
What should I prioritize first in my kitchen renovation?
Always begin with layout and workflow before selecting colors or materials. A functional foundation ensures long-term satisfaction.
Plan how you cook, entertain, and move through the space. Once the layout works, focus on cabinetry design, storage, lighting, and appliances. Finishes and décor come last. Following this sequence streamlines the process, helping every choice support your home’s function and aesthetics.
How can I include hidden storage and integrated appliances in my kitchen design?
Hidden storage and integrated appliances keep a kitchen organized and sleek. Custom cabinetry makes these features easy to achieve.
Use pull-out spice racks, lift-up mixer shelves, and appliance garages for tidy convenience. Panel-ready dishwashers and refrigerators blend seamlessly with cabinet fronts. Even small touches, like recessed paper towel holders or built-in microwave drawers, help maintain a clutter-free, contemporary look—perfect for a unique modern kitchen design.
Which materials are most durable for cabinets and countertops?
For durability, choose hardwood cabinets and low-maintenance countertops. Maple and white oak are top choices for cabinetry, while quartz offers lasting strength and style.
Hardwoods provide structure and longevity, and painted maple surfaces deliver smooth, refined finishes. Quartz counters resist stains and scratches better than most natural stones, making them ideal for busy homes. Durable materials ensure your kitchen renovation looks beautiful for decades.
How do I find a kitchen designer or contractor I can trust?
Use reputable resources like Kountry Kraft’s Find a Dealer tool to connect with qualified designers. Experience and communication matter most.
Review portfolios, ask for references, and confirm credentials before starting. A trusted designer will translate your ideas into an actionable plan and manage your renovation smoothly. Working with an authorized Kountry Kraft dealer ensures precision, professionalism, and a seamless experience from concept to completion.
Top Kitchen Remodel Contractors are Near You
By / October 1, 2025 September 23, 2025
The Importance of Good Kitchen Remodel Contractors
Hiring a skilled kitchen remodel contractor is one of the most important decisions in any kitchen renovation. The right professional will bring design knowledge, technical accuracy, and clear communication to the project. From layout changes to cabinetry details, top kitchen remodel contractors guide homeowners through every step, ensuring the finished kitchen is both beautiful and highly functional.
Kitchen Remodel Contractors Near Me Who Design with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry
Kountry Kraft is proud to be a top choice among designers nationwide for custom cabinetry. Here are a few top kitchen remodel contractors whose work features Kountry Kraft cabinetry.
By Design Kitchen and Bath—Short Hills, NJ
By Design Kitchen and Bath is led by designer and owner Ruchi Bhardwaj, whose background as an architect informs her unique approach to interiors. For Ruchi, function always comes first. She believes that the way a family lives in a space should naturally guide its form, layout, and flow.
Her process begins with a detailed consultation where she learns about her clients’ needs, daily routines, and design preferences. Site measurements follow, and then she creates CAD drawings and 3D renderings to bring the design to life. These tools allow clients to visualize every detail and ensure that storage, finishes, and appliances align with their vision.
Once plans are finalized, Ruchi prepares precise cabinet specifications and works directly with the manufacturer. Each piece is custom-made to order, minimizing errors and ensuring that installation runs smoothly. She remains hands-on throughout, coordinating with installers, contractors, and builders so that every project comes together seamlessly.
Her services extend well beyond kitchens and baths. By Design Kitchen and Bath also provides custom storage for pantries, laundry rooms, garages, bars, and home offices. Across every space, Ruchi’s work is defined by careful planning, technical expertise, and a personal commitment to her clients’ lifestyles.
Cambridge Kitchen Project—By Design Kitchen and Bath
The Cambridge Kitchen Project in New Jersey reflects Ruchi’s design philosophy with striking clarity. Though compact, the kitchen feels bright and inviting thanks to its thoughtful combination of finishes and architectural details.
The cabinetry takes center stage, with Simply White inset cabinets in a TW10 recessed panel style contrasted by rich English Walnut Five accents. This pairing strikes a balance between warmth and sophistication, adding depth to the small space.
Countertops in Taj Mahal quartzite from Atlas Marble and Granite tie the palette together with subtle veining, while a square zellige tile backsplash from Tilebar adds handcrafted character. Hardware from Top Knobs completes the cabinetry with refined detail.
Natural light pours through a wall of windows that frames wooded views. Custom blinds from The Shade Store soften the effect while maintaining the connection to the outdoors, turning the kitchen into a space that feels both functional and restorative.
Practicality is built in with a walk-in storage room finished in crisp white, offering organized shelving for appliances and dishware. This ensures the main kitchen remains free of clutter while providing easy access to essentials.
Altogether, the Cambridge project illustrates how Ruchi designs kitchens that go beyond cooking. It’s a space for gathering, entertaining, and daily living—an embodiment of her belief that form follows function in every successful design.
PKsurroundings—Exeter, NH
PKsurroundings is a design firm that specializes in fine kitchens and interiors. Founded by Janice Page, CKD, and Debbie Karpiak, the company brings more than 25 years of expertise to each project. Their award-winning designs are known for blending efficiency with style while keeping the client’s vision front and center.
The design journey begins in their studio, where clients share ideas and explore cabinetry styles, finishes, and materials. From there, detailed CAD drawings and space planning ensure accuracy, while reflective ceiling plans and lighting guidance round out the design.
PKsurroundings emphasizes teamwork. Janice and Debbie work directly with homeowners, architects, and contractors, acting as liaisons to guarantee the design translates seamlessly into the finished space. Their turnkey approach means they manage the process from concept through installation, ensuring consistency and quality.
Whether it’s a kitchen, bath, mudroom, or custom bar, the mission remains the same—deliver functional, stylish interiors that exceed expectations.
Industrial Inspired Kitchen—PKsurroundings
For this Industrial Inspired Kitchen in New Hampshire, PKsurroundings transformed a cramped and closed-off layout into an open chef’s kitchen with views of the bay. By removing walls and reorganizing the footprint, the team created room to cook, gather, and entertain.
The cabinetry forms the foundation of the design. Harbor Gray 25° perimeter cabinets pair with a French Beret 25° island, while walnut accents in shelving, stools, and island supports bring warmth. A Pennline style with TW10 Hybrid doors keeps the look clean and transitional.
Countertops provide layers of texture and function. Soapstone adds character and houses a ledge for cooking essentials. A thick Wenge wood chopping block creates a dedicated prep zone, and quartz surfaces offer versatile work space for two cooks.
Storage is equally considered. A pantry with by-pass doors and metal mesh inserts hides clutter while walnut L-shaped shelves provide open display. A bar area complete with a beverage refrigerator and wine chiller supports entertaining.
Material choices complete the balance of industrial and residential design. The mix of gray and blue cabinetry works seamlessly with the variegated subway tile, maple flooring, and mixed-metal hardware. The result is a space that feels professional yet welcoming, combining durable function with artisanal warmth.
Find a Kitchen Remodel Contractor Near Me
Homeowners often begin their search for a kitchen remodel contractor online with phrases like “kitchen remodel near me,” “kitchen contractors near me,” or even “kitchen remodeling companies near me,” only to end up overwhelmed. Instead of sorting through all of the results and attempting to vet each company yourself, allow us to offer a better solution.
Kountry Kraft’s Find a Dealer tool allows you to search for our local partners nationwide. The designers we’ve highlighted today represent only a small fraction of the truly talented professionals we work with every day. Simply use the tool to search your location and get connected with a kitchen remodel contractor today!
Conclusion
Choosing the best kitchen remodel contractor means more than comparing estimates—it’s about finding a partner who understands your vision. Experienced contractors balance design with practicality, manage timelines, and coordinate every detail for a seamless process. With the right professional by your side, your kitchen remodel becomes a rewarding investment that enhances your home and increases long-term value.
Schedule a consultation with one of our design experts to learn more about Kountry Kraft and our partners!
FAQ: Kitchen Remodel Contractors
What does a kitchen remodel contractor do?
Contractors oversee the renovation process from design coordination to installation, ensuring all aspects of the project run smoothly.
How do I choose the best kitchen remodel contractor?
Homeowners look for experience, licensing, references, and a strong portfolio to evaluate potential contractors.
Are kitchen remodel contractors licensed and insured?
Most professional contractors carry the necessary credentials, protecting homeowners against liability and ensuring compliance with building codes.
How long does a kitchen remodel take with a contractor?
Timelines vary based on scope, but many projects range from several weeks to a few months, including design, permits, and construction.
Do kitchen remodel contractors handle permits and inspections?
Reputable contractors typically manage this process, saving homeowners time and ensuring code compliance.
Do contractors use their own crews or subcontractors?
Some have in-house teams, while others rely on subcontractors; both approaches can work if managed properly.
What does a kitchen remodel contractor include in the scope of work?
A detailed contract usually outlines design, materials, labor, and change-order procedures to avoid surprises.
Do kitchen remodel contractors offer warranties?
Many provide warranties or guarantees on their work, offering peace of mind about craftsmanship and materials.
How much does it cost to hire a kitchen remodel contractor?
Costs vary widely depending on layout changes, finishes, and materials, but the contractor should provide a detailed estimate.
Can I live at home during a kitchen remodel?
Many contractors can accommodate this with temporary kitchens or phased work, though it depends on project scope.
2021’s Love Affair with Kitchen Cabinet Upgrades
By / April 14, 2021 March 31, 2021With the pandemic causing so many people to spend increased time at home, kitchen renovations have soared. And, unsurprisingly, cabinetry is a central focus. An astonishing 94% of homeowners renovating their kitchen performed some form of kitchen cabinet upgrades, with 63% of them opting to replace the cabinets entirely. Let’s see what kind of inspiration we can glean from these emerging cabinetry trends.
Partial Upgrades
For the 31% homeowners who chose partial cabinetry upgrades, space was a huge factor. 28% of this group added some form of new cabinetry, which represents an increase of nearly 400% from 2020. Others decided to focus on aesthetic, choosing to either refinish the cabinet exteriors or replace only the cabinet doors. This approach is a great way to update the look of your kitchen without cutting too deep into your budget.
Full Replacement
As I mentioned before, a whopping 63% of kitchen remodelers chose to fully replace their cabinets to create the right look and storage for their families. And, they increasingly chose to consult with professionals for help making their kitchen more functional, usually maintaining the same layout and square footage.
Cabinetry heavily contributes to the functionality of your kitchen and can be the difference between easy and nightmare storage. For example, have you ever wanted waffles, but refused to unpack half of your cabinet to get the seldom-used waffle maker out? You didn’t have waffles that morning, did you? Now imagine if you could simply open a door and get that waffle maker out. That’s the difference the right cabinets can make.
If You Need Advice…
We at Kountry Kraft would love to be the professionals that you reach out to for help picking the right kitchen cabinet upgrades for your home. Let’s get started! Find a Kountry Kraft dealer near you.
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