50 Minimalist Kitchen Ideas for Streamlined Living
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I think minimalist kitchen designs are truly one of the wonders of the world. Essentially, the main concept of minimalist design is to keep the spaces clutter-free, creating clean lines where heavier-type elements aren’t present or not the main focus of the space.
From a visual point of view, minimalism gives a beautiful sense of serenity and peace of mind by prioritizing the basic shapes in your space. Now, this doesn’t mean an all-white space or kitchen, because minimalism does allow for color if it’s incorporated in a super well thought-out manner.
Below are some helpful; tips and ideas that I want to share with you about kitchen design ideas. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know if you found them useful! Let’s dive in!
Minimalist Kitchen Ideas for Streamlined Living
Repeated Patterns
It’s really common to see different patterns and textures in most kitchens, where the floor, walls, and countertops all have different looks. But what about bringing them together?
In this case, you can see that the countertop finish is the same as the backsplash and the wooden finish sides of the kitchen island are mimicked on the top kitchen cabinet. This modern design is a great way to create a clean, streamlined look.
The Less the Better
If you want to achieve a super clean look in an open plan, try to do as little as possible on the countertops. Just remember, it’s really not realistic to have a kitchen magazine look 24/7. Hidden storage is definitely the way to go!
Make a habit of storing gadgets, utensils, and appliances as you use them. This will help to give you space to cook and help you start with a clear mind instead of worrying about moving everything around before cooking or doing a cleaning frenzy.
Integrate the Kitchen
In a modern kitchen where there are no walls that divide the kitchen from the rest of the space, the use of white can help to create some form of uniform look. It also helps make sure the minimalistic design doesn’t feel empty or overwhelming at all.
Low Cooktop
If you want a clean, modern minimalist, and continuous look on your surfaces, opt for induction stoves that you can hide away inside the cabinets. Not only do they look super sleek but they also give extra working space.
Unlike traditional stoves, there’s no space between the appliance and the cabinet where food can spill. There are plenty of induction stoves on the market to choose from and they cover all price ranges.
All-White Minimalist Classic
If you want the staple look of minimalism, go for an all-white look. It’s ideal for small kitchens or kitchens with little or no natural sunlight. Just remember that the upkeep is way more demanding, as white gets dirty the fastest and stains can be really hard to remove.
Black and White Never Goes Out of Style
If you want a minimalist feel but with a bit of elegance then this is an ideal combination. The black pops out in contrast to white, giving the kitchen a contemporary feel. This way you can also hide certain appliances like ovens and microwaves.
Pop Up Plug-Ins
Plugins are a must in all kitchens. But the truth is, kitchens have a lot of them and they can give a very messy and cluttered look. Consider using pop-up plugins. It is so easy to hide them!
Wood and White
Wood and white is another great twist to minimalism. On one hand, you have the clean minimal feel, but the wood adds coziness to the space. I always like to go for white cabinets with a marble finish in front of a wooden tile.
Brick Backsplash
A rustic look can go with minimalism, like in this photo, the brick wall backsplash is trendy and gives a classic look to the kitchen. One of the only problems is the upkeep. However, you can also opt for tiles with a brick look which are easier to clean.
Use a Pop of Color
Definitely don’t be afraid to use some color here and there! If you want to add some of your personal style to the kitchen, be brave and do it! Minimalism doesn’t mean you have to skip out on color.
Three Colors
Or what about this design idea? If you don’t want one, go for three! I love this daring kitchen with a matching dining room. The white background serves as a canvas for the contemporary yellow and grey furniture to shine. I just can’t get enough of it!
Make It Colorful
This is an even more daring example! The yellow and navy blue match the kitchen and the dining room theme. This playful style works great in open spaces like lofts.
An Island Larger Than Life
While this isn’t suitable for all kitchens, if you are lucky enough to have a big kitchen with an option for an island, choosing one with an extra-large top gives a floating feel. If its a great way to add a luxury, Los Angeles feel to your kitchen area.
Cooking Art
If you are looking for something unique, this artistic approach to minimalism is what you need in your life. I think the chair’s twisted shapes matches the tree and the all-white island matches the table finish. If you’re feeling bold, opt for a subway tile backsplash to finish the artistic, shaped look.
Sleek Appliances
Avoid big appliances like the stove hood, and go for a slimmer design. They work just as well without grabbing all the attention. Plus, they are WAY easier to clean.
No Kitchen Handles
If you want to achieve a continuous clean look, avoid using handles. There are magnetic latches that allow the kitchen door cabinets to open with just a push. I personally like these as I do believe handles can really make or break a kitchen area.
Simple Open Shelves
Open shelves are a good idea to store mugs, cups, and glasses while using them as decor. But, it’s key to know exactly what goes in there to avoid clutter. After all, minimalism is all about a no clutter lifestyle.
Invisible Appliances
If possible, try to disguise all appliances behind cabinet doors. It will create a super nice, streamlined look. If you have too many visible appliances it becomes overwhelming and can look really messy. Obviously, this is what you want to avoid.
Minimalism for Big Family Kitchens
Going for an all-white look will open up the space and give enough storage for all the food, utensils, and appliances, among other items, without looking cluttered. In this style of kitchen, a regular cleaning and organizational routine are key. If you have young kids, maybe don’t opt for this kitchen style as it will get messy quickly!
Narrow Kitchen
This kitchen shape benefits the most from a minimalistic style, especially if you choose a white or light color palette. The use of white amplifies the space and makes it look really luxurious, even in a small space. Opt for some stainless steel appliances to open up the space with a mirror-like look.
Let the Backsplash Do the Talking
I love a backsplash that speaks for itself like in this hexagon tile design. This design works so well and is only further complemented by a marble countertop and black matte finish cabinets.
Natural Wood Finishes and Open Shelves
If you want a clean and streamlined style, this is a really good option. See that the cabinets do not have handles to give a continuous look and the cabinets have a white finish with a wooden backsplash instead of a classic tile. It’s such a clean, luxurious look in any space.
All Shiny White
This is a great design idea for single people. This minimalist style with sharp edges gives a futuristic feel and creates a really clean, bright space.
A Pop of Green
Green is such a nice way to light up a space. This minimalist kitchen in white, black, and natural wood finish, uses olive-green cabinets surrounding the refrigerator to command attention. It also freshens up a space and makes it feel much cleaner.
Rustic + Minimal
This is an interesting combination where the white smooth surfaces of the cabinets are contrasted against a grey brick wall, a wooden finish countertop, and a big wicker lamp, beachside homes could use this style. A futuristic and fun light fixture can make the space POP!
Futuristic White
The clean white surfaces with black appliances give this kitchen design a futuristic feel. I love how open it feels.
Minimalistic Twist on a Classic Look
White long and narrow tiles are used to create a zig-zag pattern over black matte finish cabinets and countertops. This is a really aesthetic way to use shapes without overwhelming a space.
Breakfast Table for Small Kitchens
If you have a small place then an open kitchen with an incorporated high table will be a space saver. Not only does it look good, but is also practical and gives extra storage below the serving side.
Contrasting Colors
The use of black in this design frames the area in the cabinets and the white marble countertop gives a floating illusion over the black base.
Built-in Dining Table
Ideal for couples or single people, this table design incorporated into the kitchen cabinets eliminates the need for a dining area. If you have a big window like in the picture, you will benefit from a great view to enjoy as you eat.
White Floors
I really enjoy this serene look. The ceiling, cabinets, and floors all match in white. The floors are so bright and make the space so open.
Young Professional Kitchen
This kitchen idea is simple but has a lot of storage that extends between the kitchen and dining table. It is perfect for storing everything from dishes to office supplies.
Minimalist Seaside Kitchen
This is a dream kitchen for many of us! Cooking would be such a pleasure with this incredible view, and in this design, minimalism is the best option as the simple and white lines do not fight for attention letting you enjoy the beautiful views.
Natural Finishes
With a simple yet elegant look, the wooden floor contrasts with the white minimalist kitchen cabinets and the concrete wall. An outstanding design that works great on lofts.
Tempered Glass Doors
A good way to store kitchen items and other items you might have is using tempered glass doors like the ones in this picture. They are white to visually hide everything while still being able to maintain a clean look.
Natural Wood
Another beautiful example of how a natural wood grain looks. Ideally, you want all the pieces to have a continuous look as you see in this picture. One drawer grain is continued in the next one, making it all streamlined.
Clean Look for a Big Family Kitchen
Let’s face it, not all minimalistic styles will work for all families. If you have a big family and need to have items somewhat visible, then this is one the best choices. The top cabinets have glass, which lets you see just enough to know where everything is without making the space feel overwhelming.
A Masculine Touch
I would consider a design leaning towards the masculine side, maybe for a bachelor, with the white and wood finish shining over the dark concrete tile. I love this picture because the tiles have a really cool texture.
Wooden Roof
This design for me mingles between a minimalist kitchen and a modern barn style. The overall look is clean once everything is stored, but the style of doors and the wooden roof give a barn vibe. It is a great way to create a seamless blend of aesthetics.
A Multipurpose Island
This is a perfect example of function plus aesthetic. In this picture, we have an all-white island, but as you see it is equipped with the sink, the induction stove, and the washing machine. The best part is that they are all hidden from plain view while being accessible.
Deep Drawers for Pots
Some people like to use big lazy susan’s in the kitchen corners for their pots, but I personally feel this is a better alternative, as it is much easier to access. This works for all kitchens, but only if you have what you need, and not a mountain of kitchen items.
Rich Chocolate Wood Finish
Another great example of a cozy minimalist kitchen is the rich wood finish that contrasts beautifully with the white cabinets and gives personality to the space. It gives off a poetic and neat look that is absolutely lovely.
Just an Island
A more daring design proposal, which works for people who do not cook much or like in this case is a holiday home where you are more likely to go out for lunch or dinner. Once again the kitchen is simple to let the views take over.
Bold Kitchen Island
Unlike the previous picture, here the island commands the attention. But what I love most about this design is the fact that the island matches the floor, creating a two-side contrasting look.
Exposed Beam
The exposed ceiling beams are a decorative piece without cluttering the space. They also give any space a wider feel. Paired with the high ceilings, this look is stunning.
Lamps as Decoration
In this clear design, the black lamps become the centerpiece and frame both the table and the white backsplash with wooden side cabinets.
Kitchen + Office
In this design proposal, a small white kitchen is merged into the space. This is a good minimalist design for offices, or open floor plan pads.
Decorative Pieces
In a minimalist kitchen, some decorative pieces will draw more attention, like this orchid flower vase or the large sculpture. I really like when people add a statement piece that commands attention.
Lights, Lights, and More Lights
Lights are the key to brightening the space and making it feel more spacious. This is especially true if you have a narrow or small kitchen or have little natural lighting. Lights are also important to see everything clearly and avoid accidents.
Bold Edges
In a minimalist kitchen with little to no decorative pieces, a dramatic island will be more than enough to serve as a decor piece. You can choose a stone-like marble with a beautiful pattern and make sure it is thick like this picture to give a sturdy feel and attractive look.
Decorate your kitchen space with ease!
I hope you found some inspiration in this curated selection! If you have any questions please write them down below and I’ll answer them as soon as I can. In the meantime, here are some other minimalist lifestyle posts you may find interesting:
- 7 Tips for a Minimalist Bathroom
- 5 Scandi Style Decor Principles
- Japandi the New Interior Design Trend
- 30 Minimalist Living Room Ideas
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