Here are the Tricks Designers Use to Create A High End Kitchen |

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Ahh the high end kitchen. After having spent well over a decade in the interior design industry (funny how that happens, considering I swear I’m only 22), I’ve amassed quite the collection of handy dandy tips and tricks over the years. And while the beauty of design is that it’s subjective and open to interpretation, there are “rules of thumb” that seem to span across all design styles and sensibilities. If you’re renovating (or even if you’re not – there’s a few tips for all below) and you’re looking to up the ante when it comes to your kitchen, here are a few things that are just about always included in any high end kitchen design.

oversized range hood covers

Photo & Design: Jenna Sue Design

It’s true that every room needs a focal point, and when it comes to the kitchen the hood range tends to be the thing. It’s provides a great opportunity to infuse a sculptural element, almost akin to a work of art in and of itself. Creating a really wow-worthy moment with an oversized range hood cover is pretty unanimous across all high end kitchen designs (did you see my mom’s kitchen? I still swoon over that range hood cover).

inset cabinets

Photo: Lee Kristine

I’m prepping a post that talks about the different cabinetry styles in greater detail, but when it comes to a high end kitchen, “inset cabinets” are simply it. Essentially, it’s when the face of the cabinet is flush with the cabinet box (as shown above), creating a seamless look. It is the most expensive option when it comes to cabinetry styles, but if budget allows it’s well worth the splurge.

layers of lighting

Photo: Lucy Call | Design: W Design Collective

Lighting is integral to any well designed space, but if you’re looking for a high end kitchen, layering your lighting is the only way to go. A combination of wall sconces, drop pendants, under cabinet lighting, and canned lights is optimal. While wall sconces and pendant lights provide another great opportunity to incorporate sculptural interest (they’re often works of art in and of themselves), under-cabinet lighting and canned lights provide function. The variety provides the ability to really customize the ambiance on a moment’s notice, and the combination is unmatched.

art = high end kitchen magic

Photo: Photographie Intérieure CO | Design: Blanc Marine Living

Adding art to your kitchen is a power move. Design, as they say, is in the details, and art is a wonderful way to incorporate a layer of beauty, grace, and additional interest. Bonus points added for picture lights (yes, give me all the lighting!)

upgrade your day-to-day products

The one thing that sets a well-designed space apart from another: attention to detail. And when it comes to those finishing touches, I’m of the firm belief that they shouldn’t be an after thought. You don’t need to break the bank here, but for optimal results everything from your crock, to your soap dish, to your mixing bowls and beyond should be well curated. (PS: You can check out some of my favourite sources for kitchen goodies here, if you’d like.)