Interior designers offer seven tips for achieving a high-end aesthetic in your own home.
Lindsey Swanson, creative director for Carbon 6 Interiors, recalls one of the most interesting kitchens she has had the opportunity to design: A double kitchen layout featured both a presentation kitchen and a prep kitchen, the former serving as the visual appeal for guests with a wine refrigerator seamlessly integrated into the surrounding white oak cabinetry, upper cabinets with glass doors to display serving items, and a quartzite backsplash. An adjacent prep kitchen housed professional-grade appliances, double dishwashers, ample cabinetry storage, and window display shelves to showcase the homeowner’s homegrown herbs.
It was the epitome of an Artisan Home Tour kitchen.
“An Artisan kitchen is a masterpiece of personalized craftsmanship, meticulously tailored to suit the unique preferences and requirements of its owner,” says Summer Kath, executive vice president of design for Cambria. “Every detail, from the choice of materials to the selection of products, is carefully curated to evoke a sense of handcrafted luxury and functionality.”
But you don’t need to be on the Artisan Home Tour to have an Artisan-worthy kitchen. Here, interior designers offer seven tips for achieving a high-end aesthetic in your own home.
Prioritize timelessness over trends. As tempting as it may be to reimagine your kitchen every time you’re inspired by a picture on Pinterest or an influencer on TikTok, a timeless kitchen will always give you the most bang for your buck. Says Sustainable 9’s director of interior design Brittany Blunt, “The kitchen is a space where you spend the most time, and remodeling can be a hassle” (not to mention pricey). Instead of chasing trends, focus on the colors, materials, and décor that stand the test of time: neutral tones, classic accessories like wooden cutting boards and copper pans, simple cabinetry designs, and traditional layouts, to name a few.
Invest in high-quality materials and appliances. Splurge on the products and materials you interact with daily — think granite or quartz countertops, hardwood or marble flooring, custom cabinetry, and gourmet appliances from reputable brands known for their performance and innovation, such as professional-grade ranges; built-in, panel-ready refrigerator and freezer columns; and smart appliances with advanced features. “These materials not only elevate the aesthetic appeal but also ensure durability and longevity,” says Swanson.
Opt for customized cabinets. Custom cabinetry elevates a kitchen’s sophistication with meticulous attention to detail — from the choice of paint color, wood type, and quality to the functionality of doors and drawers. “These bespoke elements contribute to a luxurious ambiance and ensure longevity,” says Kath.
Don’t compromise on countertops. Every slab of natural stone is unique in its veining, crystallization, and markings, so take your time visiting slab yards and showrooms “to find the countertop that resonates with your vision for the space,” says Blunt.
“Just because you like what your neighbor has doesn’t mean it will look the same way when you order,” adds Joel Dehmer, vice president of sales for Granite-Tops. “Look at the material you are selecting in different lighting. Make sure you understand the product you are selecting and how it will impact your daily routine. You want the countertops to function how you live.”
Hone in on the hardware. Small details, like eye-catching hardware, can take a kitchen from ordinary to artisan. Forgo standard cabinet pulls and knobs in favor of modern shapes and metals, or make a statement with a bold kitchen faucet. “View hardware as the home’s jewelry,” Blunt advises.
Illuminate the space effectively. “Lighting plays a crucial role in creating ambiance and functionality in a high-end kitchen,” says Swanson, who suggests incorporating a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting. “Consider installing dimmer switches, pendant lights over the island, under-cabinet lighting, and statement chandeliers to add visual interest and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.”
Make it personal. Even if you’re striving to create a timeless kitchen, that doesn’t mean you can’t infuse the space with your personality through thoughtfully placed color, pattern, texture, and décor. “From vibrant accent walls to eye-catching backsplashes and statement-making cabinetry, homeowners may embrace bolder choices to infuse personality and style into their kitchens,” says Swanson. Additionally, “open shelving allows homeowners to showcase their favorite dishes, cookware, and decorative items. This emphasizes visual interest and accessibility while promoting a sense of curated charm.”
