It’s always very tempting to play it safe in kitchens. They’re a big investment after all, and most people say you should expect them to last you a good 10 years.
But isn’t it brilliant when people are brave with their kitchen designs?
These days people spend more and more time living and entertaining in kitchens as the heart of the home, so it seems a shame for this to be a room that you don’t put your mark on.
I went looking for some of my favourite cool kitchens to share with you.
Sky high style
I loved this kitchen by Matt and Kim in this year’s The Block Sky High (Channel 9).
The cabinetry is very neutral but they added some real punch with the rendered wall, the pink artwork and the cool light feature. All those elements could be changed later at relatively little cost and disruption.
Check it out: The Block homes hit the market
This is a cool kitchen which could easily be pared back for sale or if you changed your mind.
Photo: Nine MSN
Look inside: Matt and Kim recently sold their Perth home
This kitchen rules
This kitchen, belonging to Chanel 7’s My Kitchen Rules judge and celebrity chef Pete Evans, is very simple at first glance, but there are some key elements which make it a standout.
The huge fish and port-hole style mirror make a nautical statement and reflect the Sydney beachside location.
There’s plenty of white storage and preparation space but the timber on the floor and ceiling add warmth and stop it looking too clinical.
The recessed shelving is a nice place to display favourite pieces without them looking cluttered or being in the way.
Photo: Nine MSN
I love subway tiles and they’re an affordable, classic option
Beyond white
A cool kitchen, to me, is one with personality. It doesn’t have to be the flashiest or most expensive. I think the below kitchen is a great example.
I love subway tiles and they’re an affordable, classic option. I like how they’ve added colour with a very non-kitchen rug and mixed it up a bit by having two different colours on their main cupboards and separate island bench, rather than keeping it all white.
The open shelving and hanging pans also keep it interesting and add some colour to what is otherwise a very safe and neutral base.
Photo: Better Homes & Gardens
Beware the dusting if you go the open shelving route
Boldly open
Here’s another kitchen that’s cool in my book because it goes against the grain.
They’ve avoided the usual white with black cupboards and a grey island bench and almost everything’s on display!
This is a really easy way to add personality to your kitchen and I love it. The unusual stools are a real feature.
Beware the dusting if you go the open shelving route though.
Photo: Decor Pad