Want to create a sleek, modern minimalist kitchen? Even if you aren’t sure where to begin with minimalism, this quick kitchen design guide will help you transform your space in no time. Follow these 15 essential tips to get started designing the minimalist kitchen of your dreams!
Start with Decluttering
Photo via @minimalismista
Before you begin designing, you need to streamline your kitchen’s organization. Decluttering your kitchen doesn’t have to be difficult. Start by removing everything from kitchen cabinets and drawers to take stock of what you own. Then, create keep, donate, and toss piles for separating your items. If you have duplicates or items you haven’t used in the last six months, move them to the donate pile. If any items aren’t in good working shape, move them to a toss pile. Everything else can stay.
Opt for a Neutral Color Scheme
Photo via @luminlamphouse
White is a classic color option for minimalist kitchens because it reflects light well, which can help your space feel brighter and more open. Of course, you don’t have to stick to white—you can also utilize other neutral hues, such as beiges, grays, and light browns. But if you want a little pop of color, consider painting an accent wall or adding subtle touches of blue, yellow, or green.
Get Rid of Hardware
Photo via @thneu
When it comes to minimalist kitchen design, clean lines are a must. Give your cabinets a makeover by installing invisible pulls. Removing knobs and handles will instantly transform your space—not to mention, switching out hardware for hidden alternatives is as inexpensive as it is impactful!
Let There Be Light
Photo via @brayerdesign
No minimalist kitchen is complete without light. Emphasize natural light, if possible, by keeping window dressings open during the day. If your kitchen doesn’t have any windows—or just seems too small or too dark—add a simple mirror to reflect light and create the look of additional space.
Avoid Cluttered Countertops
Photo via @banda.property
Don’t let your kitchen countertops be a catch-all space for miscellaneous items. Things you use every day—like your coffee maker—can stay out, but there’s no reason to let your crockpot gather dust where everyone can see it. Focus on keeping your countertops free of clutter. If you don’t like the look of completely clear countertops, use minimal decor—like a bowl of fresh fruit or a vase of flowers.
Switch to Glass Cabinets
Photo via @erin_interiors
The more shadowed and closed-in your kitchen looks, the harder it will be to achieve a truly minimalist feel. You can expand your space and give your kitchen a unique look by replacing solid cabinet doors with glass to create the illusion of a larger, brighter room!
Ditch the Kitchen Table
Photo via @morhome_hun
Bulky furniture has no place in minimalist design. Instead of going with a traditional kitchen table, put barstools or wire chairs at a kitchen island or breakfast bar to open up your space. Doing so will add visual appeal to your kitchen, create cleaner lines in your design, and give you more room to move around!
Blend Form & Function
Photo via @adidstudio
Minimalism isn’t all about aesthetics—utility is also important. One way you can combine function and flair is by using storage solutions that double as decor. For example, you can easily store fresh fruit in a decorative bowl or keep wooden utensils in a ceramic pitcher on your counter.
Utilize Vertical Space
Photo via @thegritandpolish
Cabinets and drawers are valuable real estate in any kitchen, but they’re far from the only place you can store things. Put pots and pans on a hanging rack for easy access. Or free up some space in your pantry by adding floating shelves where you can store frequently used spices. There are plenty of creative kitchen storage solutions for using vertical space, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
Add Texture with a Backsplash
Photo via @susanlovedesign
Color isn’t the only stylistic element you should play around with when designing a minimalist kitchen. Install a kitchen backsplash to break up the texture of your walls. Just be sure that the backsplash you choose matches the overall flow of the room. Geometric patterns, black-and-white subway tiles, and white marble all work well in a minimalist design scheme.
Store Dry Goods in Uniform Containers
Photo via @theruthlessorganizer
Say goodbye to sloppy storage in your kitchen pantry and hello to a beautiful minimalist space! Transfer flour, sugar, spices, and other dry goods from their original packaging into matching jars or storage containers to totally transform the look, feel, and function of your pantry. Just make sure the containers you use are airtight!
Put Out Some Plants
Photo via @rustyrosefarmhouse
Plants bring a natural touch to any room, so it’s no wonder they’re so popular in minimalist decorating! Add just a few plants here and there–taking care to mix flowers, spices, and small succulents–to implement subtle pops of color and transform your kitchen from sterile to cozy.
Tone Down Your Floors
Photo via @fournorthfarmhouse
Dark, heavy-looking hardwood flooring makes any room look smaller than it really is. Keep your minimalist kitchen light, bright, and easy-to-clean by swapping out scratched-up hardwood or dingy linoleum with vinyl wood panel flooring, polished concrete, or ceramic tiles. These durable, modern flooring options will make your room look and feel more spacious.
Soften the Space with a Rug
Photo via @jeanstofferdesign
While most minimalist designs utilize hard-surfaced elements, it’s important to throw in some extra dimension and soft touches as well. Meet this kitchen design need by using a simple rug with a neutral color to complement the rest of your room. Textured rugs like shags can be a great way to boost visual appeal while also making the space feel more comfortable.
Keep It Sleek
Photo via @manololangis
As you work on your kitchen’s minimalist design, follow the mantra “less is more.” Use clean lines, light colors, geometric shapes, and sparing decor to create your dream minimalist kitchen. Resist the temptation to go overboard with wall art—which should be kept to a minimum—and let empty space take the spotlight instead. Play around with different minimalist decorating tips and see what works for you!
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