35 Sleek & Inspiring Contemporary Kitchen Design Ideas

By Leslie Anne Wiggins

With their minimalist cabinetry, neutral color palettes, and metallic accents, these contemporary kitchens have a subtle elegance that will never go out of style. They blend aspects of modern design with other styles, including traditional and industrial, for a look that's current and sleek, but not sterile. A pop of color—whether it’s on the furniture, in a bowl of fresh fruit, or in a vase of flowers—ensures that these contemporary kitchen designs still feel warm and welcoming, as do big windows that let in the sun, an architectural light fixture, or a piece of bold artwork or decor. Each of these 35 kitchens from the AD archives is a lesson in restraint, from a bold Manhattan space by Jamie Drake to a crisp white design in Madrid by Isabel López-Quesada. Just a few decorative accessories (and zero clutter) on shelves and countertops let the smart mix of materials—and tonight’s dinner—shine. Click through to see contemporary kitchen design ideas that blend style and function for a space that is cutting-edge yet inviting.