Kitchen design: the best tips for making the right choices for you!

Evaluating different kitchen design allows you to identify the one that best meets your needs and gives a unique personality to such a central room in the home.

Specifically, kitchen design is not just about the aesthetics and appearance of the furniture that composes it, but is a concept that also encompasses the functionality of the room and its ability to satisfy the daily habits of the family.

In this sense, lines, materials and finishes contribute to creating an environment that must be not only practical and welcoming, but also consistent with the lifestyle of those who live there every day.

Which kitchen design to choose? A guide to making an informed choice!

The choice of kitchen design must therefore take into account both practical and stylistic needs. The many solutions offered by manufacturers can be divided into traditional, contemporary, original and trendy kitchens.

Traditional design is the most classic interpretation of kitchens. It stands out for the elegant lines of the furniture, the use of solid materials with a strong character (such as solid wood), the mouldings and the cosy atmosphere that characterises the room where food is prepared.

In contrast, contemporary design favours simplicity and clean lines. In kitchens of this type, the furniture has a clean design, with smooth surfaces, neutral colour palettes and technological materials. The typical result is bright, tidy and easy-to-manage kitchens.

In original kitchens, the rules are subverted and design choices are tailored to the tastes and preferences of those who live in the house. Originality can be expressed through the combination of different materials, the use of bright colours or the inclusion of furniture that contrasts with the rest of the décor.

Choosing a kitchen with a trendy design, on the other hand, demonstrates attention and interest in the latest developments in furniture. Examples of kitchens in step with the times? Well, we can mention kitchens made with custom-made furniture and unusual layouts. There are also those with a clear inspiration from the natural world.

What are the fundamental choices for defining kitchen design?

Before focusing on aesthetics, it is worth making a preliminary remark. When evaluating various kitchen design, it is essential to consider the functionality of the room, starting with its specific layout. One rule to follow when designing this area of the home is to concentrate the so-called work triangle, i.e. the area between the cooking area, sink and refrigerator, in a small space.

Once you have organised the work triangle, you can move on to evaluating the layout of the rest of the furniture. Depending on the size of the space and your individual preferences, you can then opt for a simple linear layout or an angular, L-shaped or U-shaped layout.

You can also consider enhancing the design of larger kitchens by adding an island or peninsula. Furniture elements of this type are practical and functional, and can also become the operational heart of the room or an indispensable gathering place for socialising.

Of course, the choice of materials has a decisive impact on both the appearance and durability of the kitchen. Any suggestions? Quartz or innovative material surfaces are perfect solutions for modern kitchens, while wooden elements are ideal for those looking for a warm and natural look.

Lighting also deserves special attention. How so? In a well-designed project, there must be a perfect balance between natural light, worktop lighting and decorative light fixtures.

Last but not least, the colours and finishes of the kitchen have the task of defining the character of the room and establishing a connection with the rest of the home.

What are the ideas and trends for kitchen design?

While modular kitchens have long been the preferred choice of families due to their versatility and the time savings they offer during the design phase, today the possibility of total customisation in kitchen design is gaining increasing popularity.

In custom-made kitchen design, each element is designed to enhance the space and meet the specific needs of the client. After all, by removing the constraints dictated by the dimensions of modular components, it is possible to create a unique combination of fixed and independent elements, all well integrated with the appliances and consistent with the furnishing choices made in the rest of the home.

As for the use of colour, after years of neutral tones dominating, intense colours are regaining their leading role. For example, among the most interesting designer kitchens are those made with teal, burnt earth, forest green or deep blue elements, combined with glossy worktops or warm metals such as brass and copper.

Beyond fashion trends, however, it is always important to remember that kitchen design should reflect the lifestyle of those who live in the home. Only in this way can a functional space be transformed into an authentic, welcoming and truly lived-in environment.

Il Piccolo, second generation family-run carpentry shop, opens its showroom in Lugano. With over 50 years of experience, Il Piccolo brings with it a wealth of technical and design knowledge of the highest level, thanks to the many interiors designed and furnished all over the world. In addition, Il Piccolo represents the most prestigious brands of furniture worldwide. Il Piccolo designs, manufactures and sells the best of interior design made in Italy, following the customer from design to implementation, delivery and installation of the work, integrating the process with a precise and professional service. CONTACT US