If you're looking for ways to simplify your cooking space, consider incorporating a contemporary aesthetic into your kitchen. Similar to the style of a modern home in that it aims for a streamlined, uncluttered space, contemporary kitchen design uses elements like clean lines, updated finishes, and simple statement pieces.
Unlike modern decor, which tends to be timeless, contemporary style keeps up with the latest trends. Its sleek design style and ease of cleaning make it an ideal choice for your kitchen. To help you vision your next kitchen refresh, here are some contemporary kitchen ideas that are perfect for any kitchen size and color scheme.
Warm wooden kitchen
Jared Kuziah
The warm wood grain of the cabinetry and open floating shelves give this kitchen a farmhouse feel. But matte black details like the task lighting, casement window frames, and trim throughout give the kitchen a contemporary, cool feel. Plus, sleek stainless steel appliances, white walls, and upper cabinets give the interior a simple, modern feel.
Contemporary kitchen with bohemian details
Julie Sufer
The cabinets and appliances in this contemporary kitchen are like new, but the homeowners added a few bohemian details to infuse it with their own personal decorating style: a vintage orange kitchen rug, eclectic backsplash, and fresh greenery bring a pop of color to the space.
A contemporary kitchen with rustic roots
Julie Sufer
The juxtaposition of old and new makes this kitchen special: the arched doorway, exposed reclaimed wood beams and aged zinc extractor hood contrast perfectly with the lustrous lacquered cabinetry, ergonomic bar stools and nickel drum light fixtures.
Small contemporary kitchen
Werner Segarra uses a company schedule
Keeping a small space clutter-free is important, so if that's your goal, contemporary style is a wise choice. Smooth countertops and cabinetry have faux textures that add visual interest. Low-back chrome counter stools and clear, spherical pendant lights contribute to the modern look.
Gorgeous green contemporary kitchen
Anthony Masterson
This kitchen's dark pine green cabinetry and brass hardware feel more traditional than contemporary, although the state-of-the-art appliances fall into the latter category. Modern midcentury bar stools add even more character to the space.
Eclectic contemporary kitchen
Erin Little
We spend a lot of time in the kitchen, so it's worth having a little fun with an eclectic design style, and this kitchen is a great example of that, alternating between walnut and white cabinets, a subway tile backsplash, black granite counters, retro plant stands, vintage industrial lighting fixtures, and midcentury modern bar stools.
Contemporary Farmhouse Kitchen
Sean Sullivan
With high vaulted ceilings and plenty of natural light, this open kitchen is every cook's dream. It's also the perfect place to mix and match styles. Classic shiplap, slate floor tile and coastal lighting fixtures create a modern farmhouse vibe. Low-profile appliances, steel storage baskets and loop hardware add a contemporary feel.
A contemporary kitchen designed for entertaining
Zeke Ruelas
This kitchen is a host's dream, with floor-to-ceiling windows, oversized sliding glass doors, spacious vaulted ceilings, ample counter space and contemporary seating. Cooking is a breeze thanks to state-of-the-art appliances. Natural hardwood floors and a French country-style chandelier give the large room a homey feel.
Contemporary kitchen with a view
Photo by Nathan Schroeder
A wall of windows opposite the kitchen island lets sunlight into the room, a stainless steel range hood hangs from the ceiling (to avoid blocking the view, of course), and two industrial pendant lights above the island lend the room a modern aesthetic.
Attractive contemporary kitchen
Zeke Ruelas
This kitchen perfectly blends farmhouse vibes with contemporary elements for a unique transitional style: classic Shaker cabinets, an apron sink, and natural wood accents evoke cottage charm, while black and gold accents, tall casement windows, and luxury appliances create a modern, contemporary feel.
Spacious contemporary kitchen
James Nathan Schroeder
Contemporary style calls for a clean, sleek aesthetic, so keep the clutter at bay. Stretch your cabinets to the ceiling and make use of industrial-sized appliances. Chrome-and-leather bar stools and striking light fixtures add interest without taking away from the sleek design.
Cool color kitchen
David A. Rand
This contemporary kitchen features a variety of colors, all cool hues that keep the room fresh. Light wood floors and gray-toned cabinetry balance the white marble countertops and pale blue backsplash. Minimalist windows and shelving, plus a stainless steel chimney range hood, contribute to the clean look.
Minimalist modern kitchen
Panichguru Studio
Even in a spacious, open layout like this, less is more. In fact, an open-concept kitchen, especially one that will be seen by everyone in the main living area, should embrace a minimalist decorating style. Opt for cabinetry with clean lines, smooth waterfall counters, and functional appliances that won't stand out in the island.
Moody contemporary kitchen
Emily Followill
The textured dark gray cabinets in this kitchen could come across as dreary if not for the fun touches added throughout. Beautiful granite countertops, a stone vent hood and herringbone detailing on the backsplash and flooring coordinate with the contemporary appliances to create a truly unique space.
Contemporary kitchen with metallic elements
Edmund Burr
Though it's not technically made of silver, stainless steel resembles it, and today's design trends suggest that mixing metals is totally acceptable, so don't be afraid to pair stainless steel appliances and countertops with gold accents like hardware and task lighting in your kitchen.
Matte black contemporary kitchen
Adam Albright
Everything from the dark two-tone cabinetry to the matte black metal range hood, lava stone countertops and waterfall island add drama to this space in the most over-the-top ways. A book-matched marble backsplash and hexagonal pendant lights accent this contemporary kitchen.
Warm wooden contemporary kitchen
Emily Minton Redfield
Contemporary doesn't have to mean cold, so don't shy away from incorporating warm elements into your kitchen. Dark wood cabinets and flooring balance industrial-style appliances and gleaming white quartz countertops, as do small details like elegant copper hardware and modern brushed nickel bar stools.
A timeless and contemporary kitchen
Paul Dyer
This kitchen is a great example of transitional style, and one to consider if you're not ready to fully commit to a contemporary design. Upgrade your appliances to the latest models, install a waterfall countertop on the island, and opt for three futuristic chrome light fixtures. Keep some traditional details, like the wooden slingback dining chairs and navy blue cabinets with glass front doors.
Sleek and contemporary kitchen
Philip Harvey
Pale hickory cabinetry and light-colored appliances brighten this kitchen, which maintains a contemporary style thanks to stainless steel accents, sleek lines and modern appliances.
Contemporary kitchen with double island
John Grannen
This kitchen has plenty of space for prepping, cooking, and enjoying food. It features not one but two islands, each with a waterfall countertop made from the same clean acrylic material as the cabinets. Your eye is also drawn to the tray ceiling, where oversized industrial pendant lights and steel beams hang.
