kitchen

Clean Cooking

The last decade of foodie TV has transported enterprising home cooks and decor enthusiasts alike into today's culinary epicentre. Not only has our interest in all things menu-related been fuelled, but our appetite has also been whetted for glamorous, contemporary kitchens inspired by the professionals. Packed with the latest restaurant-grade conveniences and wrapped up in a shiny, high-tech package, these modern kitchens say high-end, but surprisingly, their look is also well suited to compact-sized condos and starter homes.

Floorplans: Keep it clear
The rigour of an open, contemporary floorplan helps small or galley kitchens feel more expansive. Many modern kitchens utilize banks of floor-to-ceiling cabinets; the trick maxes out storage and creates an unbroken wall of cabinetry that draws the eye up, forgoing islands for breathing space.

If extra counter space is required in these wide open spaces, consider a rolling steel table as a portable prep station. A compact kitchen may also be able to accommodate a sleek breakfast bar or cappuccino station with the addition of chrome or plexi bar stools.

To ground your look, keep in mind that dark hardwood flooring accents pale cabinetry beautifully, while slate or marble tiles pair elegantly with exotic-wood cabinetry.

Cabinetry: Sleek is chic
Less is definitely more in this modern world when it comes to cabinetry : Skip knobs if possible and instead go for expanses of glossy lacquered or clean-front, wood cabinets with minimal returns. If you do opt for hardware, it should be as discrete as possible; long stainless steel pulls are a good option, as are stainless kick plates.

Open shelves, especially floating, suit a contemporary kitchen, but displays of collectibles or functional pieces should be well-edited, as "clutter" and "modern" do not co-exist happily.

Countertops: Think smooth but substantial
Counters are often on full display in contemporary kitchens, since the idea is to keep them free and clear. To counter the minimalism, consider black granite, natural stone and concrete, their natural texture adds warmth without jeopardizing drama and polish. Corian, given its endless colour range and versatile nature, is also a great choice for this modern-day kitchen mandate.

Sink-wise, stainless steel pair wells well with these countertop options, especially sinks with a deep apron. For something out-of-the ordinary, consider granite composite, and choose an undermount style for the cleanest look possible. The perfect accent to that clean countertop and sink : A high-arc faucet with pull-down spray wand and single-lever tap inspired by the pros.

Colour: Energize with bold accents
When appliances and cabinetry whisper with a style that stresses precise lines and low-key colour, background paint can shout. Take a page from high-end European kitchens and embrace bold colour in your modern kitchen : a mid-century inspired chartreuse, cobalt or lipstick red suits the mindset.

kitchen tile backsplash

Tile: Go glossy glass or all-white
Tiles serve as a dramatic focal point in a contemporary kitchen when applied as a stripe of colour for a backsplash, or for more oomph - a full wall. The depth and rich pigment of glass tiles make them a natural choice for these sleek spaces since they tend to resemble modern art. For more understated options, try a simple glazed white or marble subway tile.

Lighting: Clean and quirky have their place
Modern lighting can be playful or super chic. Popular choices include rows of brushed nickel pendants, functional track lighting that targets prep areas, or quirky picks like a starburst chandelier that truly sparkle when displayed against the clean slate of a contemporary space.

Appliances: Stainless yes, but colour too
Stainless steel appliances are a natural in these industrial-inspired spaces, but consider the sharp and stunning impact of a black fridge flanked by dark cabinetry or paired with dark flooring. It`s unexpected, and that quality is right at home in this most modern of spaces.

Want the look? Keep this design checklist handy when planning your kitchen and you too can create a sleek modern space worthy of the pros. Just repeat after us : Think cool, clean and uncluttered.