10 Beautiful Kitchen Design Ideas
It's one of the most fun--if initially most overwhelming--parts of planning a kitchen renovation: gathering inspiration. Looking at photos, magazines, and social media site to find out what you like, what you need, and what you definitely don't want. We always encourage our clients to seek out and save as much inspiration as they can find. It'll not only help educate you on your options, but it'll help you form a clear idea and plan for what you want, which in turn, helps inform those involved in creating your new space.
Looking for a little inspiration? Here, we've gathered 12 of our favorite kitchen renovation ideas from our past projects to help you start creating your dream space.
1. Add built in shelving. To maximize every inch or your space--large or small--consider built in shelving to house cookbooks, small appliances, or extra place settings. 
2. Try contrasting cabinetry. For a modern, unique look, try two-tone cabinets, choosing a different finish for the upper and lower rows of cabinetry.
3. Or a contrasting island. For a subtler take on the two-tone look, try a kitchen island in a color different from the rest of your cabinetry.
4. Make the space multi-purpose. With more and more homeowner's turning to "open-concept" living, why not take the idea one step further with a truly mixed-use space? The homeowner, below, added a built-in desk to turn a corner of this kitchen into a workspace.
5. Skip stainless steel. After almost a decade of stainless steel appliances being the de-rigeur choice for modern kitchen remodels, both homeowners and manufacturers are turning to custom-finishes, like these glossy white appliances that blend in with the surrounding cabinetry.
6. Update tradition. For a contemporary take on traditional-style cabinetry, forgo wood-tones in favor of a painted finish in a modern color like gray.
7. Rethink storage. Installing custom drawer organizers keeps your kitchen neat and functional.
8. Add a dramatic light fixture. Chandeliers needn't be reserved for foyers and dining rooms. Install one above your island or in the center of the room to create a glamorous focal point. 
9. Install a colored backsplash. Skip standard white subway tile in favor of a smaller tiles in a earthy tone like gray, sage green, or stone.
10. Or a sheet glass one. For a look that's modern and sleek, try a sheet glass backsplash. Bonus: sheet glass is also completely customizable, since the back of the glass can be painted any color.
File these ideas away to your inspiration notebook or Pinterest board, then check out more beautiful kitchen ideas from Divine Design Build on our Houzz profile.