Are you tired of the tried-and-true kitchen designs everyone uses? Are you searching for unique kitchen remodel ideas that won’t be considered outdated or kitschy in a few years?

You aren’t alone in your creative kitchen remodeling quest. Homeowners have been splurging extra on the specific features they want to see in kitchens both large and small. Three out of five opt for features like durability and design over cost.

A beautiful new kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank, however. Remodeling pros can help you find the designs you love for the prices you can afford. Below are seven unique kitchen features that will stand the test of design trend time.

1. Waterfall Island

Traditional kitchen islands generally feature flat counters atop cabinets and/or shelves. Waterfall islands add a sleek design element to your new kitchen.

The island countertop “flows” down the side to the floor, creating a seamless look. It also comes with practical benefits, such as protecting cabinets from wear and tear.

Waterfall islands also work great with all manner of luxury or niche materials. These include:

  • Stainless steel
  • Concrete
  • Natural stone
  • Marble
  • Quartz
  • Granite

Another option is the popular kitchen remodeling design known as “butcher block.” This distinct look is made from popular woods like walnut, oak, and mahogany. You can even choose between different textures, such as distressed vs polished planks.

This upgraded kitchen remodel uses a stunning granite waterfall island to create a textured focal point. It also adds a durable protective layer for the black cabinets and appliances, which would otherwise show side scratches very easily.

2. Built-In Breakfast Nook

The last time you were in a restaurant, did you opt for a cozy booth over a table? For people who prefer cushy booth seating, a built-in breakfast nook or similar banquette seating can add both comfort and enhanced design style.

These special seatings also allow more options than your standard square or rectangle kitchen table. Customizable elements include:

  • Shape (half circle, L-shape, etc.)
  • Number of bench sides
  • Fabrics
  • Cushion depth
  • Textures
  • Added storage

You can also customize nooks to fit your kitchen, an especially big perk for smaller spaces. Instead of wasting space all around your kitchen table, a built-in nook fits perfectly along your walls. Your new kitchen will be more spacious and more inviting for your back and other sitting-down parts.

3. Custom Range Hood

Range hoods typically don’t get much direct attention until it’s time to clean off the grease and sauce speckles. This appliance can actually add dimension to your new kitchen, however.

If you’re looking for more unique kitchen remodel ideas, custom hoods are the distinct flair you need to stand out from cookie-cutter designs. Other added benefits can include:

  • Optimized space
  • Enhanced air quality
  • Dynamic lighting
  • Higher home appeal (including increased property value)
  • Easier cleaning

Customs hoods also ensure you don’t have a bulky appliance that pops out from your overall kitchen design. If you opt for a bright blue and white kitchen, for example, a greasy and outdated range hood is going to go from barely noticeable to a big eyesore.

4. Ceiling Depth

Like a range hood, ceilings are habitually overlooked when it comes to design. This makes it the perfect space to flex your creative kitchen remodeling muscles.

Ceiling designs can include:

  • Rafters
  • Exposed beams
  • Planks
  • Tiles
  • Crown molding
  • High gloss
  • Mirrors
  • Coffering
  • Angles and slopes
  • Recessed spaces
  • Layers
  • Tiers
  • Groin vaults

If you have a great kitchen view, you can also add skylights or even large glass ceiling sections, similar to a greenhouse. This will allow lots of lovely natural light in your new kitchen space.

5. Kitchen Fireplace

Transforming a kitchen into a luxury space is easier than most people realize. You don’t need a huge mansion to build an upgraded kitchen. Some simple touches are all it takes.

On top of basic luxury design, why not add some extra luxury features? A new kitchen fireplace may sound like a step backward into the old-timey territory, but it can actually be an elegant and practical element.

Kitchen fireplace benefits include:

  • Added warmth and depth
  • Lower energy costs
  • Increased home value
  • Additional cooking area
  • Design focal point

You can cook a wide range of select dishes in a kitchen fireplace, from gourmet pizzas to campfire meals. Many fireplace-cooking aficionados use fire-safe dutch ovens. Like a grill, you can also use various wood or wood chips to add different flavors.

If fireplace brewing isn’t for you, you can still add a built-in modern version. These smaller and more lustrous fireplaces add warmth and coziness without taking up too much space.

6. Transparent Cabinet Doors

Transparent shelf doors are another way to add depth with a design twist. Most kitchen remodeling includes updated kitchen cabinets, so take advantage of your remodel to create new displays.

Transparent designs include:

  • Clear
  • Stained
  • Frosted
  • Etched
  • Reeded
  • Seeded
  • Metal grate
  • Chicken-wire
  • Mesh
  • Panes
  • Mirror

You also add different opening shapes, from subtle arches to whimsical portholes. Some even opt for sliding glass doors instead of hinges. You can also pair it easily with other cabinet design elements, like ambient underlighting.

As an additional perk, this new view will encourage everyone to keep the kitchen cabinet spaces organized and tidy. Your new kitchen will also seem more spacious. If your kitchen is small or cramped, this little design feature can go a long way.

7. Open Shelves

Transparent cabinet doors have many benefits, but some home remodeling projects throw constrictive cabinets completely out the window and opt for open shelves instead.

This design feature creates an airy and minimalist look while maximizing space. Open shelf benefits include:

  • More space
  • More storage options
  • Added depth
  • Creative dish displays
  • Color and design coordination
  • Easier organization

Bonus: open shelves can be much less expensive than installing brand-new cabinetry. If you’re yanking out old cabinets during kitchen remodeling, this design feature can be a great cost-cutting replacement.

Are You Ready to Turn Your Unique Kitchen Remodel Ideas Into a Reality?

Timeless design elements add substance and style. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice form or function in your new kitchen.

Creative kitchen remodel ideas like open shelves and built-in breakfast nooks help you take advantage of all your kitchen area has to offer. Updated kitchen features like custom range hoods add practical uses along with design flair.

If you’re ready to make your updated kitchen dreams come true, we have all the experience and expertise you need for a flawless project from start to finish! Contact us or book an appointment online to get started on your in-home consultation.

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