Kitchen Design 101: What We Always Include (and What We Avoid)

If there's one space we get excited about designing again and again, it's the kitchen. It's the heart of the home, and when done right, it's equal parts beautiful and functional. Over time, we've picked up a few tried-and-true design tips that we always come back to. If you're planning your dream kitchen (or just love a good refresh), here's what we always include and a few things we happily skip.

Mix Your Finishes

We’re big fans of mixing painted cabinetry with natural wood stains. It’s an easy way to add warmth and depth without going overboard.

A stained island paired with soft, painted perimeter cabinets? Yes, please! We also love to mix metals in hardware and plumbing for an added layer of interest, and often use a different stone on the island than on the surrounding countertops to create depth and dimension. These combinations bring balance and character to the space, something we prefer over a one-tone kitchen that can feel flat or too safe.

A Home for Everything

There's something so polished about panel-ready appliances. They blend right into the cabinetry for a clean, custom look that instantly elevates the space.

And we always pair them with smart storage— hidden trash, pull-out spice racks, and appliance garages to name a few. We skip cluttered countertops and those "where do I put this?" moments by planning ahead. When every item has a home, the space feels calm, clutter-free, and effortles

Make the Range a Moment

If we can, we love to create a focal point around the range. Whether it's a beautiful slab backsplash, a custom plaster hood, or handcrafted tile, this is the perfect spot to lean into some drama. It draws the eye in and becomes the heart of the kitchen.

Say Yes to Stone

We're big fans of natural stone countertops. Natural stone remains timeless, durable and brings unique character to every kitchen. Quartzite is our go-to when clients want the beauty of marble but need something with less maintenance for everyday use.

Mind Your Space

We always recommend leaving at least 42 inches between the island and the surrounding cabinets or appliances. It sounds simple, but it makes the kitchen feel open, breathable, and easy to navigate. Narrow walkways not only feel cramped, they can make cooking feel stressful, so when possible, we design for ample space every time.

Don't forget to layer in both task and ambient lighting. It's one of those subtle details that makes a big difference. These are the details we come back to time and again because they work, and they make every kitchen feel thoughtful, functional and livable.

Want to chat about your dream kitchen? I'd love to help make it happen! Email us at Tiffany@tiffanylauerinteriors.com. And follow along over on Instagram @tiffanylauerinteriors for more of our favorite spaces.

Additional Resources:

• Grab your FREE Pillow Playbook Guide to discover how to effortlessly style your pillows and enhance the look and feel of your home. 

• Visit our Houzz profile to view some of our past projects.

• Photography by Kim Prichard & Rhea Ashlynn Photography