Kitchen Design
New This Week: 5 Warm and Welcoming Kitchens
See how home professionals play with wood tones and creamy off-white elements to create a cozy look and feel
Creating a kitchen that people feel comfortable in is a goal of many homeowners. To get an inviting atmosphere right, design and construction pros rely on finishes and materials that exude warmth, with lots of wood tones and creamy neutrals playing a big role in the selections. Here, home professionals share the warm and welcoming elements they used to create five cozy kitchens.
2. Contemporary and Cozy
Designer: Dominique Fowler Iff of DFI Interiors
Location: Lexington, Massachusetts
Size: 400 square feet (37 square meters)
Homeowners’ request. “This kitchen is part of a new construction,” designer Dominique Fowler Iff says. “The owner wanted a contemporary design that would read warm and inviting. It was built with an open floor plan and high ceiling heights, which can be considered the opposite of warm and inviting. Because the architecture is so minimalist and simple, we didn’t want to overcrowd the interior but still create a space that would feel inviting, embracing and cozy. Rather than overwhelming the space with excessive decor, we focused on carefully selecting materials and finishes that evoked a sense of warmth and coziness. By incorporating natural elements and thoughtful design choices, we designed this contemporary kitchen into a welcoming retreat.”
Fowler Iff’s client found her on Houzz. “The owner selected our studio based on our Houzz profile,” she says. “It allowed us to showcase our work and share our clients’ review of our work and collaboration. It gave us the legitimacy to be considered as a strong partner on this large project.”
Warm and welcoming elements. “We paired sleek white flat cabinet panels with warm white oak cabinets, creating a striking contrast that adds visual interest,” Fowler Iff says. “The wood finish brings a natural warmth, while the white panels maintain a clean and modern look. By eliminating cabinet hardware, we emphasized the beautiful lines and grain of the wood, allowing the material to speak for itself. The artisanal white 4-by-4-inch tile backsplash adds a touch of texture and authenticity to the space. The uneven surface reflects light in unique ways, creating a visually interesting effect. The warm white countertops with delicate beige veining complement the overall color scheme and add a natural element to the space.”
Other special features. “We selected a retro pendant light for the kitchen island, adding a touch of character and warmth,” Fowler Iff says. “The matte black finish creates a striking contrast against the white cabinets and countertops.”
Designer tip. “When designing your kitchen, do not overdo it,” Fowler Iff says. “Select very simple and minimalistic finishes. You will then have a neutral canvas to build on and that will allow you to accessorize your kitchen differently over the years so it can evolve with your life stages and personality.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “The owner got really nervous when we selected the backsplash for this kitchen,” Fowler Iff says. “He thought that white tiles against white cabinets would look boring and sterile. He had remorse and fears that that tile would look terrible. I told him to trust us and that he would be pleasantly surprised once that tile would be installed. An item is not only made in a color, but texture and finishes come into play and are just as important as colors. He ended up really loving how it came out.”
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Designer: Dominique Fowler Iff of DFI Interiors
Location: Lexington, Massachusetts
Size: 400 square feet (37 square meters)
Homeowners’ request. “This kitchen is part of a new construction,” designer Dominique Fowler Iff says. “The owner wanted a contemporary design that would read warm and inviting. It was built with an open floor plan and high ceiling heights, which can be considered the opposite of warm and inviting. Because the architecture is so minimalist and simple, we didn’t want to overcrowd the interior but still create a space that would feel inviting, embracing and cozy. Rather than overwhelming the space with excessive decor, we focused on carefully selecting materials and finishes that evoked a sense of warmth and coziness. By incorporating natural elements and thoughtful design choices, we designed this contemporary kitchen into a welcoming retreat.”
Fowler Iff’s client found her on Houzz. “The owner selected our studio based on our Houzz profile,” she says. “It allowed us to showcase our work and share our clients’ review of our work and collaboration. It gave us the legitimacy to be considered as a strong partner on this large project.”
Warm and welcoming elements. “We paired sleek white flat cabinet panels with warm white oak cabinets, creating a striking contrast that adds visual interest,” Fowler Iff says. “The wood finish brings a natural warmth, while the white panels maintain a clean and modern look. By eliminating cabinet hardware, we emphasized the beautiful lines and grain of the wood, allowing the material to speak for itself. The artisanal white 4-by-4-inch tile backsplash adds a touch of texture and authenticity to the space. The uneven surface reflects light in unique ways, creating a visually interesting effect. The warm white countertops with delicate beige veining complement the overall color scheme and add a natural element to the space.”
Other special features. “We selected a retro pendant light for the kitchen island, adding a touch of character and warmth,” Fowler Iff says. “The matte black finish creates a striking contrast against the white cabinets and countertops.”
Designer tip. “When designing your kitchen, do not overdo it,” Fowler Iff says. “Select very simple and minimalistic finishes. You will then have a neutral canvas to build on and that will allow you to accessorize your kitchen differently over the years so it can evolve with your life stages and personality.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “The owner got really nervous when we selected the backsplash for this kitchen,” Fowler Iff says. “He thought that white tiles against white cabinets would look boring and sterile. He had remorse and fears that that tile would look terrible. I told him to trust us and that he would be pleasantly surprised once that tile would be installed. An item is not only made in a color, but texture and finishes come into play and are just as important as colors. He ended up really loving how it came out.”
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3. Welcoming White Oak
Designer: Madison Jackson of design-build firm Lee Kimball
Location: Wayland, Massachusetts
Homeowners’ request. “With their busy family of five, including three school-age children, their previous kitchen layout felt closed off from the rest of the home, didn’t flow well with daily activities and always left one person without a seat at the counter,” designer Madison Jackson says. “Our challenge was to bring the design up to date, create a more family-friendly environment and devise a first-floor configuration that better served their love of entertaining.”
Warm and welcoming elements. “An early favorite material was the natural white oak used for a majority of the kitchen cabinetry, and the rest of the palette was built from there,” Jackson says. “We selected Benjamin Moore White Dove as the finish for the countertop cabinets that flank the range to help not only keep the interior wall feeling light but also to help draw the eye to our focal piece: a custom metal hood with natural brass straps. With a range of materials already in play, we opted for a honed Imperial Danby marble countertop and backsplash in the main kitchen area. With its tones of warm neutrals and hints of green, it added depth the way only natural stone can.”
Other special features. Five-foot workstation sink with two faucets. New solid wood beams with iron fasteners.
Designer tip. “A kitchen can be both functional and aesthetically appealing,” Jackson says. “The countertop cabinets that feature appliance garages on either side of the range allow all the necessary gadgets and items to be tucked away when not in use. But it also serves to center the space around the range and the island. Also, don’t be afraid of putting a sink or workstation in the island. It allows the space to be much more social than being sequestered on the outside edge.”
Cabinetry: Mottl Cabinetry; custom range hood: CopperSmith
How to Design a Kitchen That Brings People Together
Designer: Madison Jackson of design-build firm Lee Kimball
Location: Wayland, Massachusetts
Homeowners’ request. “With their busy family of five, including three school-age children, their previous kitchen layout felt closed off from the rest of the home, didn’t flow well with daily activities and always left one person without a seat at the counter,” designer Madison Jackson says. “Our challenge was to bring the design up to date, create a more family-friendly environment and devise a first-floor configuration that better served their love of entertaining.”
Warm and welcoming elements. “An early favorite material was the natural white oak used for a majority of the kitchen cabinetry, and the rest of the palette was built from there,” Jackson says. “We selected Benjamin Moore White Dove as the finish for the countertop cabinets that flank the range to help not only keep the interior wall feeling light but also to help draw the eye to our focal piece: a custom metal hood with natural brass straps. With a range of materials already in play, we opted for a honed Imperial Danby marble countertop and backsplash in the main kitchen area. With its tones of warm neutrals and hints of green, it added depth the way only natural stone can.”
Other special features. Five-foot workstation sink with two faucets. New solid wood beams with iron fasteners.
Designer tip. “A kitchen can be both functional and aesthetically appealing,” Jackson says. “The countertop cabinets that feature appliance garages on either side of the range allow all the necessary gadgets and items to be tucked away when not in use. But it also serves to center the space around the range and the island. Also, don’t be afraid of putting a sink or workstation in the island. It allows the space to be much more social than being sequestered on the outside edge.”
Cabinetry: Mottl Cabinetry; custom range hood: CopperSmith
How to Design a Kitchen That Brings People Together
4. Rich and Creamy
Designer: Tonia Coleman of Le Belle Maison Interiors
Location: Frisco, Texas
Size: 546 square feet (51 square meters); 21 by 26 feet
Homeowners’ request. “My clients wanted an oversize kitchen where they could entertain large gatherings, but they wanted the space to feel defined between the kitchen and dining areas in an open concept,” designer Tonia Coleman says. “The homeowner envisioned a warm and inviting kitchen that marries the elegance of French Country style with a modern twist, perfect for hosting large gatherings.”
Warm and welcoming elements. Custom stained quartersawn oak island. Wood range hood detail. European white oak floors. Warm white cabinets. Creamy white zellige backsplash tile. Creamy white quartzite countertops. Brass details. “They wanted a space that feels timeless yet fresh, where traditional elements like the soft neutral tones, natural island with a mix of painted cabinets and the reclaimed-wood-wrapped hood coexist with the sleek, functional design,” Coleman says. “The open and airy spaces allow guests to flow effortlessly, with an oversize 12-foot island as the heart of the kitchen, designed to accommodate a crowd and serve as the perfect spot for entertaining.”
Other special features. Five-foot workstation sink with two faucets and integrated accessories such as cutting boards, colanders, drying racks and serving trays.
Designer tip. “For a unique, rustic touch, we used a reclaimed-wood skin wrap for the kitchen hood instead of a traditional beam cut to size,” Coleman says. “This design trick brought an organic, textured element into the space, echoing the charm of reclaimed-wood beams but with a lighter, more refined silhouette. The wrap adds depth and warmth, blending seamlessly into the modern
Country French style while highlighting the natural beauty of aged wood.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “We had an ‘uh-oh’ moment after the island was installed when the client realized she wanted a bit more room between the kitchen island and the range wall for added comfort and flow,” Coleman says. “Thankfully we were able to adjust and move the island, creating the extra space she envisioned. It was a reminder that even the best-laid plans sometimes need a little tweaking, and we were glad to make it work to ensure the kitchen was just right for her needs.”
Coleman used Houzz “to explore and refine our client’s design style,” she says. “Together we browsed through numerous inspirational pictures, discussing what elements resonated most with her and envisioning how they could come to life in her kitchen. This visual approach allowed us to align specific details, helping her articulate her vision and making the design journey both enjoyable and clear.”
Custom cabinetry plan: KBH Texas, Andrew Risinger, Kitchen, Bath and Home; cabinetmaker: Custom Wood Products; builder: Kirlin Custom Homes; reclaimed wood: Olde Wood; project photos: Stacy Markow Photography; wall and ceiling paint: White Dove, Benjamin Moore
New to home remodeling? Learn the basics
Designer: Tonia Coleman of Le Belle Maison Interiors
Location: Frisco, Texas
Size: 546 square feet (51 square meters); 21 by 26 feet
Homeowners’ request. “My clients wanted an oversize kitchen where they could entertain large gatherings, but they wanted the space to feel defined between the kitchen and dining areas in an open concept,” designer Tonia Coleman says. “The homeowner envisioned a warm and inviting kitchen that marries the elegance of French Country style with a modern twist, perfect for hosting large gatherings.”
Warm and welcoming elements. Custom stained quartersawn oak island. Wood range hood detail. European white oak floors. Warm white cabinets. Creamy white zellige backsplash tile. Creamy white quartzite countertops. Brass details. “They wanted a space that feels timeless yet fresh, where traditional elements like the soft neutral tones, natural island with a mix of painted cabinets and the reclaimed-wood-wrapped hood coexist with the sleek, functional design,” Coleman says. “The open and airy spaces allow guests to flow effortlessly, with an oversize 12-foot island as the heart of the kitchen, designed to accommodate a crowd and serve as the perfect spot for entertaining.”
Other special features. Five-foot workstation sink with two faucets and integrated accessories such as cutting boards, colanders, drying racks and serving trays.
Designer tip. “For a unique, rustic touch, we used a reclaimed-wood skin wrap for the kitchen hood instead of a traditional beam cut to size,” Coleman says. “This design trick brought an organic, textured element into the space, echoing the charm of reclaimed-wood beams but with a lighter, more refined silhouette. The wrap adds depth and warmth, blending seamlessly into the modern
Country French style while highlighting the natural beauty of aged wood.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “We had an ‘uh-oh’ moment after the island was installed when the client realized she wanted a bit more room between the kitchen island and the range wall for added comfort and flow,” Coleman says. “Thankfully we were able to adjust and move the island, creating the extra space she envisioned. It was a reminder that even the best-laid plans sometimes need a little tweaking, and we were glad to make it work to ensure the kitchen was just right for her needs.”
Coleman used Houzz “to explore and refine our client’s design style,” she says. “Together we browsed through numerous inspirational pictures, discussing what elements resonated most with her and envisioning how they could come to life in her kitchen. This visual approach allowed us to align specific details, helping her articulate her vision and making the design journey both enjoyable and clear.”
Custom cabinetry plan: KBH Texas, Andrew Risinger, Kitchen, Bath and Home; cabinetmaker: Custom Wood Products; builder: Kirlin Custom Homes; reclaimed wood: Olde Wood; project photos: Stacy Markow Photography; wall and ceiling paint: White Dove, Benjamin Moore
New to home remodeling? Learn the basics
5. Soft and Serene
Designers: Greg and Katy Kachikis of GDK Remodeling
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Size: 270 square feet (25 square meters); 13½ by 20 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The existing kitchen was not nearly big enough for a family of five that loves to host friends and family,” designer Katy Kachikis says. “We extended the exterior wall by 10 feet and absorbed a small balcony, where the sink area was later built. Apart from the extra space, our clients’ main request was: ‘Anything but an all-white kitchen.’ The clients love color, especially blue, and wanted each new room in their house to feel alive and happy.”
Warm and welcoming elements. “With lots of natural light, high ceilings and plans for light blue cabinetry, we knew we’d need to bring elements of warmth into the space to create the welcoming feeling the owners were looking for,” Kachikis says. “We used a medium brown engineered hardwood, a warm white paint color for the walls and ceiling (White Dove by Benjamin Moore), and finished the custom white oak island with Rubio Monocoat Pure. We finished the vent hood with Portola Paints Roman Clay in the color Piano Room to add even more texture, warmth and interest. The brass finishes in the light fixtures and cabinet hardware were the final touch of warmth the kitchen needed.”
Other special features. “We vaulted the ceiling and creatively designed the kitchen layout to accommodate HVAC ducting in the unusable corners and eliminate multiple fur-downs in other areas of the home,” Kachikis says. “The White Fantasy Lux quartzite countertops were not in the plans or budget, but once our client saw the slab in person, there was no turning back and we actually opted to take it up the backsplash behind the stove. Other unique elements — a mixer lift, a drawer for a vintage flour box and open shelving for lots of cookbooks — are personalized for the baker in the family.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “Light blue is so difficult to get just right,” Kachikis says. “We probably looked at a dozen swatches before we landed on Sherwin-Williams Upward for the cabinetry. Also, when we designed the cabinetry, we knew getting a refrigerator that would work in a corner would be a little difficult. We actually had to return our initial selection before finding one that didn’t interfere with the adjacent cabinets.”
More on Houzz
Read more kitchen design stories
Browse kitchen photos
Hire a kitchen remodeler
Shop for your kitchen
Designers: Greg and Katy Kachikis of GDK Remodeling
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Size: 270 square feet (25 square meters); 13½ by 20 feet
Homeowners’ request. “The existing kitchen was not nearly big enough for a family of five that loves to host friends and family,” designer Katy Kachikis says. “We extended the exterior wall by 10 feet and absorbed a small balcony, where the sink area was later built. Apart from the extra space, our clients’ main request was: ‘Anything but an all-white kitchen.’ The clients love color, especially blue, and wanted each new room in their house to feel alive and happy.”
Warm and welcoming elements. “With lots of natural light, high ceilings and plans for light blue cabinetry, we knew we’d need to bring elements of warmth into the space to create the welcoming feeling the owners were looking for,” Kachikis says. “We used a medium brown engineered hardwood, a warm white paint color for the walls and ceiling (White Dove by Benjamin Moore), and finished the custom white oak island with Rubio Monocoat Pure. We finished the vent hood with Portola Paints Roman Clay in the color Piano Room to add even more texture, warmth and interest. The brass finishes in the light fixtures and cabinet hardware were the final touch of warmth the kitchen needed.”
Other special features. “We vaulted the ceiling and creatively designed the kitchen layout to accommodate HVAC ducting in the unusable corners and eliminate multiple fur-downs in other areas of the home,” Kachikis says. “The White Fantasy Lux quartzite countertops were not in the plans or budget, but once our client saw the slab in person, there was no turning back and we actually opted to take it up the backsplash behind the stove. Other unique elements — a mixer lift, a drawer for a vintage flour box and open shelving for lots of cookbooks — are personalized for the baker in the family.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “Light blue is so difficult to get just right,” Kachikis says. “We probably looked at a dozen swatches before we landed on Sherwin-Williams Upward for the cabinetry. Also, when we designed the cabinetry, we knew getting a refrigerator that would work in a corner would be a little difficult. We actually had to return our initial selection before finding one that didn’t interfere with the adjacent cabinets.”
More on Houzz
Read more kitchen design stories
Browse kitchen photos
Hire a kitchen remodeler
Shop for your kitchen
Architect: Peter Eskuche of Eskuche Design Group
Builder: Amy Hendel of Hendel Homes
Location: Orono, Minnesota
Size: 360 square feet (33 square meters); 18 by 20 feet
Homeowners’ request. “They wanted a modern Scandinavian feel in their new home and kitchen,” builder Amy Hendel says. “They loved having the back kitchen to hide the larger appliances and have the additional workspace not in the main kitchen. In the scullery, there is a false back panel that hides all the smaller appliances. These are all already plugged in and ready for use. All you have to do is move the backsplash over for instant access.”
Warm and welcoming elements. Wood cabinets and floors. Limestone range alcove. “The focal point of the kitchen is the range wall wrapped in a custom blend of limestone veneers,” Hendel says. “This natural element adds warmth and invites a sense of elegance to the space.”
Other special features. “This kitchen showcases the beauty of natural stone with two distinct countertops,” Hendel says. “The island features a stunning waterfall design crafted from polished White Macaubas quartzite, while the surrounding counters are made of honed soapstone, providing a striking contrast to the bright island. These surfaces seamlessly converge behind the stove, where a tall splash and ledge create a functional and stylish cooking area.”
Designer tip. “All kitchen design begins with the placement of the sink, whether it’s in front of a window or integrated into the island,” Hendel says. “This element serves as a focal point, and by taking advantage of natural light and designing the kitchen around the windows or island, the rest of the layout can flow seamlessly from there.”
Range wall stone: Orijin Stone
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