The Best Kitchens in River North

The fuss-free modern design aesthetic makes an ideal match for any small kitchen by offering spare and efficient design details — from neutral palettes and streamlined furnishings to smart storage — that work together to create the illusion of spaciousness. Combine these design details together in your small kitchen for the ultimate modern update.

Structure, hard, and sleek are among the many adjectives that come to mind when thinking about modern design details. Most commonly, these traits come to life in a structured cabinetry system; hard-edged countertops, opposed to rounded edges; and sleek stainless steel fixtures and hardware. In the case of modern design countertops, metal and slate are popular choices for their industrial vibe, durability and style. Counter these materials with complementary textures such as a glass used in the backsplash or leather on seating.

Modern design’s minimalism goes hand-in-hand with the pared-down approach of a small kitchen: limit to the bare necessities, conceal features, and integrate multi-tasking elements. First, eliminate the extras such as pendant lights for fuss-free recessed lighting, and swap space-hogging appliances for models that can be tucked in drawers. Secondly, make a place for everything and put everything in its place. To this end, consider a pullout pantry and full-height cabinets. Another idea for a modern kitchen is exposed cabinetry. Open shelving establishes an airy feel to the room while exposing an edited, tidy stack of dishes and glasses.

Further the goal of creating the idea of roominess in your kitchen by adding a modern, neutral color palette. The uniformity of monochromatic colors — light bright whites or sleek grey hues — creates the impression of spaciousness in a tight space. The graphic color pairing of black and white is often used in modern kitchen designs, along with the burst of an accent color, like primary colors in red, blue or green. Infuse this shot of color onto a painted accent wall or a gleaming colored glass backsplash. Instead of spinning the color wheel, geometric pattern is a subtle way to add interest into your modern kitchen. Consider installing a tile backsplash that features a sleek horizontal, herringbone or chevron pattern.

Remember, small kitchen designs require some thoughtful planning to the furnishings too. Think clean-lined seating, like backless stools than can easily tuck under kitchen islands. For an eat-in kitchen, try a dining table and chairs that leave a small footprint, and minimize visual clutter with furniture like Lucite chairs and a mod tulip table.