Stevenson Contemporary Kitchen, Austin

Black kept the end wall near the existing corner window open and streamlined so the owner could make coffee and light snacks. The team updated the window with custom white oak shelves to match the countertop. The original design squashed the sink into this corner too, but Black moved it to the wall and placed the dishwasher right next to it. Larger-than-usual subway backsplash tile — 4 by 8 inches instead of 3 by 6 inches — plays with the scale of the kitchen wall. "I like that the tile covers the whole wall, as in an older Parisian bistro or bakery," says Black. Countertops: white oak, DeVos Custom Woodworking; cabinetry: Richard Macdonald, FabShop; tile: Ann Sacks; cabinetry paint: Sweet Pear, Benjamin Moore

13. An Austin Galley Kitchen Opens UpPear-green cabinetry and an adorable seating area helped brighten this outdated space and connect it to the adjacent living room. Subtle details, from the corner window to the extra-large subway tile, play with the size and scale of the petite kitchen. Custom white oak countertops add necessary warmth.

For those who favor softer yellows, take inspiration from this lovely kitchen and use a pale citrusy yellow on your cabinetry or kitchen walls. This seems like a happy space for preparing a meal on even the dreariest of days.

Pale yellow always brings cheer and is a sunny kitchen favorite.More: When to Use Yellow in the Kitchen

A farmhouse sink. This is probably the most obvious farmhouse touch. The sink’s apron front stands out among the cabinets and lends a collected look to this transitional kitchen. A milk glass collection in the window also adds a traditional touch.How to choose the right kitchen sink

Colored cabinets, white tile, butcher block...BUT too restrained, antiseptic, clean but austere despite warmth of colors, wood and slight texture of the tile.