pears and lights in a kitchen

Design Notes

Make It Modern

While traditional design is a popular choice, it is only one of many and not for everyone. Do you prefer simple lines, flat surfaces, and minimal style? Then a modern design might be perfect for you. This option is often confused with the concept of updating a kitchen with new time-saving devices and a design that lacks warmth, but in actuality, that is not at all true. The purpose of the modern style is to create a functional, clean space that allows the owner to express their personality. It has many options that work well within this style, including materials and colors. By removing the traditional design elements associated with other styles, such as conventional and farmhouse, modern allows homeowners to incorporate elements that resonate with them and break from the standard. Let’s explore the contemporary design style and discover if it is for you.

What Is Modern Style?

The name can lead you to believe that it is a recent design style that dates back to World War I, but it would take off in the 1950s when materials like laminates and linoleum experienced a surge in popularity. Mass cabinet manufacturing enabled the creation of more pieces with a more unified look, allowing the homeowner to enjoy a cohesive design. Painted cabinets were introduced in the 1920s, giving people an alternative to natural wood tones. Metal cabinets also appeared and would remain a popular option into the 1950s. The modern style also paved the way for the open floor plan, a layout that continues today. This design continues to evolve each decade, incorporating and adapting to homeowners’ changing needs. Learn a few more details about the modern design style here.

bathroom vanity with tile flooring

Characteristics Of The Modern Style

So, what makes a modern kitchen modern? It is more about some aspects than the latest device or trend. Several things characterize this option, including:

  • Color: This is a fun element to discuss. Bold, bright, calm, or neutral, there are multiple choices available. Color in the modern style can run in almost any direction. The use of bold colors was introduced during the 1940s and 50s. Contrast or unified, either is acceptable in this design.
  • Minimal: clean lines and minimal hardware are part of this style. Over-the-top decoration or intricate details are absent, replaced by simplicity as the defining point.
  • Light: fixtures with unique shapes and a blending of materials perfectly reflect the modern style, as does natural light. Sometimes, reflective materials like glass and stainless steel can bring even more light to the space.
  • Open concept: Opening up the area into the whole home is a great way to keep the family together and remains a key element of modern style.
  • Materials: Blending and mixing different materials, such as wood, glass, and metal, is all part of the modern look. Glass panel doors blend beautifully with wood frames. Metal light fixtures have bits of wood mixed into them. Granite countertops and glass backsplashes are all great ways to break from traditional combinations while still creating a stunning project.
  • Functionality: Storage and convenience are essential to this style choice. Organized and streamlined spaces make for smooth dinner prep and easy morning routines.
  • Design: Frameless cabinets are usually the choice, along with a smooth, flat door profile. This style does not present excessive detail, lending an elegant yet simple feel to the space.

Modern is a step away from traditional and allows the homeowner to create a space with flexible elements, making it easy for them to express themselves.

utensil drawer

Benefits Of A Modern Style

Each style comes with unique benefits. Modern brings a sense of calm through its simple design. It also highlights the natural beauty of stone, metal, and wood. This is also an excellent feature for those who prefer an eco-friendly style. Because the modern style encourages blending materials, you can incorporate things such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, and natural stone tile. Connection is becoming increasingly important in home design, and it fits well with the modern style, which thrives in an open floor plan. The simple style also makes it easy to keep clean and germ-free. As minimalism is the object of this design, other elements will be highlighted, such as a countertop, a color scheme, or a work of art. Choosing a modern style lets you highlight more than just your cabinets; you can focus on what matters.

Make It Modern

Your home is an expression of you; it is meant to go from house to house through design, which means selecting a style that reflects you. The modern style is a beautiful option, a blending of multiple elements to create a unified space that is functional and perfect for your family. Our design team is experienced and ready to help you achieve your desired look. We take time to get to know you and listen to the little things because they matter. Contact us today and let’s start creating the perfect, modern space for you.

/onFebruary 21, 2016/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inDesign Notes
Outdoor dining space with a balconyWalker Woodworking

5 Reasons For An Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen gives you the benefits of home cooking without being stuck inside, while the rest of the family has all the fun outside. With summer upon us, many are looking forward to getting some extra vitamin D plus spending some much-needed time with family and friends

Read more
/0 Comments/by
bathroom vanity with a towel drying barWalker Woodworking

Newest Items In Kitchen And Bath Design

Home is about comfort, about reflecting yourself through the design choices you make, and while we don’t recommend changing it up every other month, here’s some new items in kitchen and bath design, that will make your everyday, better.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
hidden pantry by a staircaseWalker Woodworking

Common Questions About Kitchen Pantry Design

By definition, a kitchen pantry is a place of storage. Food, beverages, extra dishes, and even household cleaning supplies are kept there. Storage is an essential part of the kitchen, and insufficient storage can cause the space to look cluttered and cramped.

Read more
/0 Comments/by

6 Tips For Choosing The Best Kitchen Cabinets

Our team at Walker Woodworking knows firsthand that organization and storage in your kitchen cabinets are essential. Our experienced wood cabinet makers, who create some of the finest custom cabinets in the foothills of North Carolina, can tell you that cabinets come in a variety of styles, including traditional, shaker, rustic, contemporary, country, and many others.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
wet bar with glass doorsWalker Woodworking

Should You Add Glass Front Cabinet Doors?

Glass front cabinets are a beautiful addition to the kitchen, but how many are just right? While you can choose to do all of your upper cabinets in glass, it’s important to remember that everything will be visible, so if you have certain dishes or food items that you would prefer to keep out of sight.

Read more
/0 Comments/by
2015 A Year In ReviewHow To Build Your Own Vintage-Style Cabinets