30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (2024)

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Kristin Hohenadel

30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (1)

Kristin Hohenadel

Kristin Hohenadel has written on design for publications including the New York Times, Interior Design, Slate, Fast Company, and the international editions of Elle Decor.

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Updated on 05/26/23

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30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (2)

Modern kitchens are functional, stylish, and built for contemporary lifestyles. While no single style defines what is modern, today’s modern kitchens often have neutral colors and clean lines. They may include amenities such as kitchen islands for meal prep and casual dining; plenty of storage; and new, energy efficient appliances such as induction stovetops.

From small apartment kitchens to large family home open plan spaces, check out these modern kitchens that will inspire your next refresh or full scale kitchen renovation.

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    Stick to All White

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (3)

    This petite modern kitchen from Fantastic Frank has glossy lacquered cabinetry in a sleek flat-front design that blends into the all-white backsplash. A large picture window floods the tiny kitchen with natural light, making the compact space feel open and airy.

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  • 02 of 30

    Mix Wood Tones

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (4)

    This London space from deVOL Kitchens has a modern feel thanks to an industrial style glass and metal indoor window over the kitchen sink and a mix of beige and burnt black beechwood cabinetry with a minimalist feel.

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  • 03 of 30

    Mingle Styles

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (5)

    Sissy + Marley Interior Design made this midcentury modern meets modern farmhouse all-white kitchen feel both timeless and current with a mix of traditional Shaker cabinetry; Scandi-style painted wooden bar stools; and Danish modern pendant lights.

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  • 04 of 30

    Think Black and White

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (6)

    This black-and-white kitchen from Becca Interiors has a modern feel with its sleek flat-front cabinetry, waterfall edge island, and two-tone cabinetry that runs all the way up to the ceiling.

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  • 05 of 30

    Skip Upper Cabinets

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (7)

    Home Consultant gave this Southern California kitchen a modern minimalist look with a neutral palette of black, white, and wood tones. Skipping upper cabinetry and painting the lower cabinetry and banquette of the U-shaped kitchen in matte black grounds the space while maintaining a bright and airy feel.

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    Go Dark

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (9)

    This moody modern kitchen from Fantastic Frank has a sleek black-on-black design, with black wood cabinetry and a matching backsplash that has visible wood grain for added texture. Discreet silver-toned cabinet pulls and plumbing hardware and a black-and-silver stove complete the streamlined, modern look.

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  • 08 of 30

    Embrace California Style

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (10)

    This spacious and airy Bay Area kitchen from Cathie Hong Interiors has a laid back, minimal, indoor-outdoor feel that embodies modern California living. Clean lines, light wood tones, leather accents, polished concrete flooring, contemporary lighting, and industrial-style black metal framed picture windows create a balanced mix of cool and warm tones.

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    Choose a Tonal Beige Palette

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (11)

    A tonal beige palette of wood, leather, and stone mixed with soft gold accents and clean lines gives this kitchen from Sissy + Marley Interior Design a soothing and sophisticated modern feel.

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    Plant a Tree

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (12)

    This award-winning space from Sola Kitchens was designed for a family with Sri-Lankan and Singaporean heritage, who asked for a "Scandi-Asian" kitchen. The result is a clean, organic, warm, minimalist, modern mix of slat wood paneling, black and white finishes, and a massive olive tree that hugs the ceiling and brings the space to life.

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    Make It Central

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (13)

    In this stylish Scandinavian apartment from Fantastic Frank, a modern black kitchen is positioned in the center of the main living area between the living and dining areas. Flat-front cabinetry and a matching island with an L-shaped wall allow the kitchen to take center stage while preserving flow and maintaining a polished look. Under-counter lighting creates an ambient glow.

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    Use Light Wood Tones

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (14)

    Home Consultant added warmth to this modern black-and-white galley-style kitchen with plenty of light wood finishes on the flooring and cabinetry that is accented with leather pulls. Black metal gooseneck sconces add an industrial farmhouse touch.

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    Accent with Red

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (15)

    An all-white kitchen with red accents feels modern and timeless at the same time, like this clean and streamlined U-shaped kitchen from Leanne Ford Interiors.

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  • 14 of 30

    Use Natural Colors

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (16)

    Neva Interior Design added a soft green backsplash to this small Parisian apartment kitchen, then planted a mini herb garden on a wall-mounted shelf and utensil rack that adds a natural element that is both decorative and practical.

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    Modernize a Galley Layout

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (17)

    This Scandinavian galley-style kitchen from Fantastic Frank is a modern minimalist dream, with simple prefabricated upper and lower cabinetry that hugs the wall and a white tile backsplash that disappears against walls. Black accents and industrial style black metal and glass partitions help to elegantly divide the space without inhibiting natural light or flow.

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  • 16 of 30

    Keep It Light

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (18)

    A mix of white walls, pale gray cabinetry, white tiles and walls, a large kitchen island, and subtle gold-toned accents give this spacious L-shaped kitchen from Cathie Hong Interiors a clean, light, modern feel.

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    Focus on Materials

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (19)

    Caroline Andreoni Interior Design created a modern kitchen in a traditional Paris apartment building that focuses on elegant materials and a mix of simple lines and graceful curves from the custom kitchen island to the beetle chairs and pendant lighting.

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    Mix Black and White Stone

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (20)

    A mix of black and white stone with dramatic veining adds visual interest to this modern kitchen in a renovated 1970s Pittsburgh home from Leanne Ford Interiors.

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    Embrace Minimalism

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (21)

    This minimalist, black-and-white Scandi-style eat-in kitchen from Fantastic Frank looks as modern now as it will in years to come, a clean and functional space that is reduced to its essential elements.

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    Hang a Dramatic Pendant Light

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (22)

    A dramatic pendant light hanging over the marble effect quartz waterfall edge island gives this bright black-and-white kitchen from Urbanology Designs a modern feel.

    4 Things to Look for When Shopping for End Tables

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    Supersize the Skylight

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (23)

    This Northern California kitchen from Cathie Hong Interiors is lit by a supersized skylight that lets natural light pour down from above onto the cooking space and central island. Earthy green bar stools and salmon pink accents add color to the all-white space that is warmed up with golden hardwood flooring.

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  • 22 of 30

    Use Two-Tone Cabinetry

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (24)

    Patterned Roman shades, gold-toned pendant lights, a corner banquette, and two-toned cabinetry gives this kitchen from Living With Lolo a lively modern feel.

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  • 23 of 30

    Update Traditional Elements

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (25)

    This kitchen from Folding Chair Design Co. marries traditional and modern styles, with dark flooring, Shaker cabinetry, and a traditional range hood blended with modern lighting, a waterfall edge island, and gold-toned accents to create a comfortable space that feels both updated and familiar.

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    Add Display Shelving

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (26)

    Caroline Andreoni Interior Design added a display shelf that runs the length of the kitchen backsplash in this renovated Parisian eat-in kitchen, complementing cool stone effect quartz with golden wood cabinetry and a split level kitchen island that gives the space a modern feel.

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    Smooth It Out

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (27)

    Clean lines, smooth finishes, and a simple palette of white, gray, and accents of black give this Florida kitchen from interior designer Maite Granda a modern feel. Details like a built-in wine fridge and an integrated energy-saving induction burner in the kitchen island make the space feel current.

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    Accent With Gold

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (28)

    Jessica Nelson Design accented this modern black-and-white kitchen with gold-toned accents that reflect light and add a measured dose of bling. A mix of all-black finishes from the kitchen island to the wrap-around subway tile backsplash, countertops, and range hood add some variation to the two-tone palette, and leather bar stools add warmth.

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    Add Industrial Vibes

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (29)

    This industrial warehouse conversion from Leanne Ford Interiors has built-in character and history that is modernized with a massive waterfall edge island that flows into the polished concrete flooring; a mix of weathered and new exposed piping; and black pendant lights and bar stools around the island that complement the classic casement windows.

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    Mix Beige and Black

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (30)

    Michelle Berwick Design mixed beige wood and matte black cabinetry with matching black hardware with a white tile backsplash that runs to the ceiling, black woven pendant lights, and massive waterfall edge islands for prep and dining in this modern eat-in kitchen with room for a crowd.

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  • 29 of 30

    Soften It Up

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (31)

    This kitchen from Living With Lolo has a soft modern feel thanks to a light palette of whites and pearl gray finishes mixed with light wood accents and warm metallics.

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  • 30 of 30

    Keep It Open

    30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (32)

    Interior designer Alvin Wayne gave this small NYC apartment kitchen a glam makeover with a strict palette of black and white that helps the semi open plan space to seamlessly blend in with the rest of the decor.

What style is modern for kitchens?

There is no single style that makes a kitchen look modern. But modern kitchens are often neutral-toned spaces that prioritize function by way of ample built-in storage; counter space for meal prep; a central kitchen island with seating for casual meals; and new, energy efficient appliances such as induction stovetops. Kitchens that are decorated in on trend styles such as modern farmhouse feel modern until they don’t. An all-white, minimalist, or black-and-white kitchen tends to look more modern than one that is decorated in the latest color of the year or outfitted with more traditional fixtures.

How do you design a modern kitchen?

Modern kitchens are designed for current lifestyles. This can mean everything from built-in storage that may go as high as the ceiling; a large central island for meal prep and casual dining; and a neutral palette that includes natural wood accents. Choosing clean lines, classic finishes, and functional layouts will ensure that your kitchen looks and feels updated and fresh, no matter your chosen style.

95 Kitchen Ideas to Transform Your Space

30 Modern Kitchens That Feel Fresh and Current (2024)

FAQs

What does a modern kitchen look like today? ›

While no single style defines what is modern, today's modern kitchens often have neutral colors and clean lines. They may include amenities such as kitchen islands for meal prep and casual dining; plenty of storage; and new, energy efficient appliances such as induction stovetops.

What is the current trend in kitchens? ›

In general, warm neutrals, lighter woods, and earth tones are growing in popularity, while stark white kitchens, gray cabinets, over-the-range microwaves, and trash compactors are on their way out. Read on to find out more details on what you'll see in the newly designed kitchens of 2024.

What is the style of a modern kitchen? ›

Typically, modern kitchens are open-concept places with tall ceilings, long countertops, and cleverly designed storage solutions that mitigate any signs of clutter. Further, modern kitchen design typically features reflective materials that look their best when exposed to natural lighting.

What is the most comfortable and efficient kitchen layout? ›

An l-shaped kitchen design is typically the most popular layout among consumers. It includes workspaces on two adjoining walls running perpendicular to each other. This layout works well when there are two cooks in the kitchen since the work area is nice and open.

What is the trend in splashbacks in 2024? ›

In 2024, get ready for a significant rise in the popularity of splashbacks adorned with captivating earthy tones and intricate organic textures. This emerging trend is all about embracing the mesmerising allure of natural beauty with carefully chosen materials that artfully mimic the serene essence of the outdoors.

What is the modern color for kitchen cabinets? ›

Those looking for something sleek and modern will likely gravitate toward black kitchen cabinets or gray kitchen cabinets. Alternatively, a homeowner with a bohemian flair may not balk at something bolder, like an emerald green kitchen or vibrant blue kitchen cabinets that complement the rest of their home design.

What backsplash is outdated? ›

Small Mosaic Tile

“Tiny mosaic tiles on a kitchen backsplash is a recipe for a bad investment,” Meadows says. “It screams outdated.

What color kitchen cabinets are in style 2024? ›

In 2024, we predict kitchen cabinet door trends will lean towards the darker side. Whether it's dark blue, green, or a dark stained natural wood. These colors have a more traditional or vintage aesthetic and have a more inviting presence.

Are white kitchens out of style 2024? ›

The white kitchen has cemented its place as a timeless classic, and in 2024, its popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Renowned for its clean, crisp aesthetic and versatile appeal, the white kitchen remains a top choice for homeowners looking to create a space that is both stylish and classic.

What color looks good in a kitchen? ›

Choose Warm and Welcoming Colors

When it comes to kitchens, white, gray, blue, red, yellow, and green really shine. Each of these shades can do something different for the room, but they all help create a warm and welcoming space.

What type of kitchen is timeless? ›

"A white kitchen is a forever trend that has stood the test of time," says Fujikawa. "It's fresh, clean, and updated, and it gives you the flexibility to change out your décor or furnishings to create a new look without having to renovate the bones of your kitchen."

What kitchen arrangement is most popular in modern design? ›

L-Shaped Kitchen

This layout provides ample counter space and promotes efficient workflow. L-shaped kitchens are versatile and can accommodate various styles, from modern to traditional.

What is the least efficient kitchen shape? ›

Some peninsula kitchens are inefficient because the peninsula sticks too far out, thereby blocking the walkway. L-shaped kitchens have the potential to flow well, but they don't always provide a circular traffic pattern. Of course, you may only have the option to use one of these layout styles in your space.

Which kitchen floor plan is most desirable? ›

The L-shaped kitchen is one of the most popular layouts because it's super functional and can be adapted for almost any sized space. As the name implies, an L-shaped layout features cabinetry and appliances along two adjacent walls, creating an obvious triangle path between work zones.

What are the six 6 basic kitchen designs? ›

There are six basic types of kitchen layouts: Island, Parallel, Straight, L-Shape, U-Shape, Open, and Galley.

What is the difference between modern and old kitchens? ›

Appliances are state of the art and unique lighting adds a high-tech feel. In comparison to darker, woodier colours in traditional kitchens, modern kitchens are lighter in colour showing off whites, greys, metallic colours (silver, gold, bronze) and even colour combinations of a light, neutral shade and bright colours.

What is the difference between a modern kitchen and a normal kitchen? ›

A modern kitchen is fairly similar to the contemporary kitchen, but with more panache. Its hallmark features include a sophisticated feel and a streamlined look. Cabinets are usually not fancy, and feature a flush front panel look, sleek hardware and a simple cabinet style. There's nothing fussy about these spaces.

What is the difference between old kitchens and new kitchens? ›

What's the difference between modern kitchens and traditional kitchens? The difference is traditional kitchens can be much more natural and timeless. Some say traditional kitchens will never go out of style. Modern kitchens will change as the seasons and kitchen trends do.

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