Using Art and Accents to Transform a Utilitarian Work Zone Into a Warm Extension of Your Home

Decorating your kitchen with art and other accents can transform a utilitarian work zone into a warm extension of your home. Choose patterned wallpaper to visually extend a room, or use framed artwork as an opportunity to add color.

An attractive plate rack can break up an otherwise monotonous wall of cabinets. Studio Peake created this kitchen to showcase their beautiful dishware collection on display; additionally, wooden cutting boards doubled up as decor to add another decorative element.

Dark and moody color palettes

Darker colors like deep blues, lush greens and charcoal grey can bring drama and coziness to any room – particularly kitchens! They help create an inviting and cozy feel in this area of the home.

When creating moody color palettes, the key is adding different hues and textures for depth – otherwise the look could come across as bland and lack visual interest.

Designers suggest adding brighter elements into a room to prevent it from becoming too moody, such as a cheerful yellow sofa or splash of primary red. Metallic elements such as brushed bronze light fixtures, brass hardware or warm burnished gold accents can also help add modern and refined touches; especially effective when combined with darker woods.

Contrasting cabinetry

Contrasting cabinetry is a stylish kitchen decor choice that adds drama and visual interest to any sized room. This can be accomplished through color choice, finish choice or material choice – making for an eye-catching visual display in any size room!

Light wood countertops or islands can add warmth and light up dark painted cabinets without overshadowing them. Conversely, pairing blue kitchens with natural wood accents will highlight its undertones.

An alternative method of creating a two-tone look is opting for wooden fronts on lower cabinetry while leaving uppers painted a bright hue – something Quadrum Studio demonstrated with their design featured on Kitchens of Instagram. This technique, known as ton sur ton, creates a balanced color palette without overwhelming the space, as well as flexibility if your preferences change over time.

Minimalist kitchens

Minimalist decor can add drama to kitchens. But used sparingly, it may leave an unfinished and sterile space.

If you want to embrace minimalist aesthetic, begin by decluttering your cabinets and drawers. Place half your cups, glasses and mugs into a box for three months storage, donating whatever’s left when returning and replenishing cupboards with just essentials.

An effective way to add texture and individuality to a minimalist kitchen is with one framed photo or flower arrangement in a frame, providing personal expression without overpowering its simplicity. A hanging rail on your backsplash allows you to hang kitchen essentials close by but off of counters – perfect for high upper cabinets where items could obstruct cleaning the backsplash!

Think outside the box

At first glance, kitchen decor may not appear to offer much scope for expression, yet the utilitarian room can actually serve as an excellent place for more unconventional pieces to shine through. A kitchen counter nook could provide the ideal environment for displaying items such as an artful cutting board or eye-catching salt mill.

Kitchen textiles such as rugs and table linens can add vibrant splashes of color without breaking the bank. By changing out these smaller elements regularly, you can quickly refresh your kitchen without breaking the bank!

Consider adding permanent touches such as painting a wall niche or installing peel-and-stick wallpaper panels (like this neutral pattern from Tempaper) as permanent additions that will transform an ordinary kitchen into something extraordinary – and when you’re ready, simply change out with new sheets or decals when ready.

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most essential kitchen decor ideas you can implement. People’s first impression when entering your home will likely be determined by its lighting; therefore, choosing appropriate lights can set an atmosphere and set a precedent for how people perceive your space overall.

Ambient kitchen lighting can be achieved using either recessed or flush mount lights. Pendant lights can also add extra depth over islands or breakfast counters.

Kitchens have evolved into living spaces over time and as more homeowners create living areas in their kitchens, homeowners are adding artwork such as canvases or photographs to the walls. Whitehead advises recessed and adjustable fixtures which can easily display newly acquired artwork.