10 Small Things That Make the Biggest Impact in a New Kitchen

When designing a space that is #kitchengoals, it all comes down to the details – a countertop, appliance or light fixture can make or break your vision – not to mention your budget. Attention to every small, yet significant, detail can make a $20K reno job look like a higher-end $50K project. Here, we dish on all the secret ways to make your dream kitchen a reality while saving some dough.

Clean, white kitchen with white marble countertops and island with substantial cabinetry

Lauren Miller

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1. The Cabinetry

If you crave something more than a ready-to-ship kitchen but can’t quite afford an entirely custom-built one, consider this brilliant compromise – forgo upper cabinets. Plan for an extra large island with full storage on both sides to slash your budget and score an airy, modern look. A floor-to-ceiling pantry and wall-to-wall credenza maximizes storage and blends seamlessly into the room. We love the contemporary feel of this kitchen from Scavolini.

White-on-white kitchen with a pop of colour in the black sink and faucet

Lauren Miller

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2. A High-Quality Faucet

Even a white-on-white kitchen needs a bit of contrast. Go for an unexpected dark sink or faucet to make a bold statement. This dual-tone Urbena faucet from Blanco is matched perfectly with a single bowl Precis sink in anthracite, which was installed undermount to allow for more countertop space. Crisp, angular design meets a durable Silgranit surface that resists heat, scratches and stains
– our idea of match made in design heaven.

A sleek gas range that fits snugly alongside cabinetry

Lauren Miller

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3. Standout Appliances

Search for promotional package deals on dishwashers, stoves and fridges and match all your major appliances for a streamlined look. If you’re going to splurge on any appliance, make it a built-in refrigerator or premium gas range. Having zero clearance around your fridge completely elevates the look of your kitchen and provides additional food storage. This gorgeous gas range from KitchenAid fits snugly within the cabinetry and looks custom-made.

Lauren Miller

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4. Marble-Like Countertops

If you love the look of marble but can’t afford to purchase large slabs of it, Laminam porcelain is a great solution. It’s virtually indestructible, non-porous, heat resistant, stain repellent and durable – and the ideal surface for slim profile applications in contemporary kitchens. Our fave? The Cava Bianco Statuario Venato porcelain slabs from Stone Tile. Select the soft touch finish for a countertop that feels like cashmere and is a dream to wipe clean.

Light, airy white kitchen with a feature wall that includes paintings and photos

Lauren Miller

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5. A Grand Statement Wall

Keep your kitchen light and bright with a warm white or neutral paint. We like Beauti-Tone’s standard white for an easy, clean finish. Once you’ve got your canvas ready, create a feature wall with over-sized art prints from Minted or a gallery of photographs. Mix brass, silver or black frames to complement your light fixtures or hardware.

Pot lights and built-in ceiling speakers

Lauren Miller

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6. Built-in Ceiling Speakers

If you’re installing pot lights in your new kitchen, consider adding built-in ceiling speakers to the mix and have your electrician run the wires at the same time. Look for a high-performance product with an edge-less design for a streamlined finish. These small, yet powerful, ceiling speakers from Russound will really elevate the ambiance at your next dinner party.

Lauren Miller

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7. Well-Curated Accessories

Small appliances and decor pieces are the finishing touches on any kitchen renovation. Avoid clutter and be selective with what you display on your brand new counter. From beautiful books to seasonal floral arrangements and gorgeous gadgets, everything should have pride of place.

White kitchen countertop with glass vase filled with flowers

Lauren Miller

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8. A Sleek (Yet Small) Coffee Machine

Unless you’re a serious coffee connoisseur and have endless counter space, opt for a chic and compact machine. Our top pick? The Lattissima One from Nespresso, which makes barista-style cappuccinos and lattes with the touch of a button and fits in beautifully with the white and airy kitchen.

Lauren Miller

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9. Colourful Books

If you’ve painted your entire kitchen white, you’ll need to rely on books or artwork to provide a pretty pop of colour. Here, two custom-built wooden shelves display an assortment of cookbooks that provide an ever-changing stream of inspiring content.

Lauren Miller

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10. Lots of Storage

Less clutter contributes to a greater wow factor. When designing your kitchen, plan for enough storage space in a large island, credenza or pantry to hide away utilitarian supplies. Don’t forget to display a few beautiful objects or accessories that accentuate your appliances and finishes.