Author Archives: cocolapine

An eclectic Swedish villa with farmhouse elements and a playful color palette

27-01-2024

This gorgeous Swedish villa (Photographed by Mia Borgelin for Historiska Hem) is decorated in an eclectic style with farmhouse elements and most of all a playful color palette. The pops of color here and there make the interior unique and add a vibrant touch to this beautiful home.

The downstairs level includes a beautiful kitchen with white cabinets. A breakfast nook with a window seat paired with a narrow dining table fits in a relatively small area in the kitchen. The dining room features bold blue dining chairs that stand out against the white area rug, curtains, and natural wood tones. The living room also features blue tones, which connect both spaces visually.

On the second level, underneath a sloped roof, you can find the bedrooms, which each have their distinct look. The kid’s rooms all feature a different wallpaper, making each of them unique and distinct.

A dining rook with a wood dining table and blue dining chairs on top of a white fluffy area rug

A spacious dining area with blue dining chairs and a seating area

This spacious dining room next to the kitchen features a large wood dining table next to the window. The blue Fredericia dining chairs make the look of the space unique. The blue chairs pop out of the white fluffy area rug underneath the dining table and against the natural wood tones that otherwise decorate this section of the room.

The wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling curtains frame the dining room window nicely and make the custom radiator cover stand out.

Opposite the dining table, you can find a seating area with a small sofa and two rattan armchairs.

A seating area with a small white daybed, rattan armchairs and a vintage filing cabinet in the corner

The vintage filing cabinet adds a beautiful warm wood tone to the setting. It looks great in this corner of the space.

Light blue wainscoting in the living room

The living room features light blue wainscoting on one of the walls, which is a truly eye-catching element in the space. The ledge on top of the living room wainscoting is a perfect spot for displaying accessories.

A living room with a white couch and blue wainscoting

The black area rug contrasts with the white fabric couch and the white marble coffee table. The light blue throw pillows complement the color of the wainscoting perfectly and the pink pouf adds another subtle color element to the setting.

Opposite the sofa, you can find a painted IKEA Ivar cabinet combination in the same light blue color. The pairing of the DJ equipment and the impressive book collection on the wall shelving make this area of the living room cozy and characterful.

a blue painted IKEA Ivar cabinet with DJ equipment on top

A white kitchen with a breakfast nook

The kitchen features white shaker cabinets with white marble countertops against white walls for a clean and elegant look. The pops of color in the accessories stand out against this all-white setting.

A breakfast nook with a window seat paired with a narrow dining table fits perfectly in the window section of the kitchen. By setting up the dining area in this way, a lot of floor space is saved.

The same dining chairs as in the dining room are used in the kitchen, however, here the owners picked out the unpainted oak version.

Chrome hardware pairs nicely with a black stove and an impressive range hood that is covered in tiles for a modern farmhouse look. The wall behind the stove is finished off with an elegant white marble backsplash.

A white kitchen with a black stove and a range hood covered in white tiles

A kid’s playroom right next to the living room

The room adjacent to the living room is perfect for a playroom paired with a double desk for homework in front of the window.

A kid's room with a double desk for homework in front of the window

The blue wallpaper in this space pairs nicely with all the pretty toys in the room.

A landing with a home office

When walking up the stairs, you first meet the landing, from which all the bedrooms can be accessed. The blue wall color makes the white doors and ceiling stand out in a beautiful way.

A landing with blue walls looking out over two kid's rooms with different wall paper designs

A marble table top resting on two black archive cabinets is great for a home office setup in a space that is not typically used for anything else.

A home office in a landing with blue walls

The main bedroom underneath an A-line roof

The main bedroom is rather small fits perfectly underneath the A-line roof and the bed fits this space perfectly. The green bedside tables and the green plant in the window add a fresh touch to the modest beige wall color in this space.

A main bedroom with beige walls underneath an A-line roof

A small section of the main bedroom is used as a nursery. The sloped ceiling turns this area into a cozy nook perfect for a little child.

A nursery corner underneath a sloped roof with a vintage bed

Two kid’s rooms with distinct wallpapers

Two more kid’s rooms are placed next to each other, each with a different wallpaper. The pink wallpaper is paired with pink accessories and a small desk in front of the window is great for doing homework.

A kid's room with a pink wallpaper paired with pink textiles and a desk in front of the window

A kid's room with a pink wallpaper paired with pink textiles

The blue wallpaper in the other kid’s room works well with the blue and green color palette in the textiles.

A kid's room with a blue wallpaper paired with blue and green textiles and a desk in front of the window

A spacious hallway with storage space and a round table in the middle

An entryway with a blue wall color and a glass table in the middle

The hallway comes out into the different rooms and the space in the middle features a round glass table, which you often see in spacious entryways.

A walk-in closet is painted in a bold dark green paint color, making it stand out against the blue walls of the entryway.

A built-in wardrobe with a dark green wall color

A mudroom bench is custom-built into a niche space next to the stairs. It offers a comfortable space to store shoes and jackets for the family.

A mudroom bench custom fitted in an entryway with a blue wall color

A mix of modern and farmhouse elements in the bathrooms

The main bathroom features a white soaking tub paired with beautiful brass fixtures, white wall tiles, and white marble floor tiling.

A bathroom with white wall tiles, white marble floor tiles and brass fixtures

A minimal white vanity makes the brass elements stand out beautifully.

The second bathroom has a stronger farmhouse look with black and white floor tiling and classic chrome fixtures.

A bathroom with white wall tiles, black and white floor tiles and classic chrome fixtures

A bathroom with white wall tiles and classic chrome fixtures

Photographed by Mia Borgelin for Historiska Hem

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19 Subway tile bathroom ideas for a classic look

26-01-2024

When it comes to designing a clean, modern bathroom, subway tile is an excellent element that will give this space a classic look. These rectangular-shaped tiles are named after the tiles you see in the New York City subway system, which were first installed in 1904.

Most subway tiles are made of ceramic, but you’ll also find them made of other materials including porcelain, stone, and glass. Go for a bright white subway tile to create a clean look, opt for color to add a unique touch, or create a more dramatic look with a dark subway tile.

If you’re looking for some new inspiration for your next bathroom remodel, check out these inspiring subway tile bathroom ideas to help you create the perfect space.

A Floor-to-Ceiling Subway Tile Bathroom

In this bathroom, the subway tiles are installed from the floor to the top edge of the ceiling. This vertical stack pattern gives the bathroom a sleek yet timeless look and feel that carries the design through the entire space.

Note how the black and white checkerboard floor gives this bathroom a fun pop of contrast and different texture so it doesn’t look too overdone.

A floor-to-ceiling subway tile bathroom with white tile and black grout and a checkered black and white floor

via Entrance Makleri

White Subway Tile with Black Accents

This bathroom boasts traditional white subway tile on the walls, while bold black accents give the space some added drama. The black windowpane glass shower door, black showerhead, and black vanity with a white top placed next to a black linen cabinet pop out against the tile’s classic white color.

The floor also features hexagonal white tiles, bringing this bathroom a fresh, modern finishing touch.

A white subway tile bathroom with black fixtures and a black metal shower door

Styled by Emma Fischer and Annica Clarmell, photographed by Alen Cordic, for sale via Nya Kvadrat

Vertical Subway Tile Creates Visual Interest

In a classic subway tile bathroom, the tile is installed horizontally. However, in this room, the designer chose to install the tile in a vertical position instead. This option is great for a powder room or smaller bathroom since it can help to make the space look larger.

Smaller white square tiles added to the floor draw the eye upward so that you’re focused on the room as a whole. Note that there is no vanity in this bathroom, which helps to free up floor space, making it look larger, too.

Vertical subway tile in a modern bathroom with chrome fixtures

Styled by Lotta Agaton Interiors for Esny

Black Grout Lines Make Subway Tile Pop

The use of black grout can help make white subway tiles stand out. Not only did the designer use black grout in this tile bathroom, but they also installed some of the tiles vertically behind the bathtub and shower walls.

The tiles are also installed around the edges of the tub and cabinets to give the space a cohesive interior design.

A bathroom with white subway tile with black grout in different directions

Styled by Annica Clarmell, photographed by Jonas Berg for Stadshem

Try a Mixture of Materials

With its sharply angled walls, this unique bathroom features two different subway tile materials. The tile on the walls appears to be made of ceramic, while the same shape and size tile on the floor appears to be made of marble.

Installing marble tile adds an elegant and natural element to the bathroom. In this case, the combination brings the bathroom design a nice contrast for both the look and overall feel of the space and highlights the beautiful modern soaker tub.

An attic bathroom with white marble floor tile and white tile with grey grout on the walls and sloped ceiling

via Historiska Hem

Install Subway Tile Along a Portion of the Wall to Add Elegance

The white subway tile in this bathroom is installed along a section of the wall, but it doesn’t go all the way to the ceiling. This design adds a wainscotting-like touch, while the top half of the room features a classic, neutral paint color.

The interior designer added a thin line of trim along the very top of the subway tile and a wider section along the floor to finish it off. Small black and white floor tile adds even more dramatic flair.

A half-tile bathroom wall with white subway tile and a trim, green vanity

via Cupboard and Goods

Use White Grout for a Fresh, Clean Look

White tile in any shape makes a bathroom feel bright and vibrant. Here, the interior designers opted for white grout between the subway tile so everything looks nice and cohesive throughout the room.

The addition of more traditional black and white floors makes for a classic choice that gives this bathroom an air of elegance and simplicity. A lovely crystal chandelier installed in front of the window adds a chic and luxurious finishing touch.

A classic bathroom with white subway tile and a black and white diamond floor tile

via Entrance Makleri

Play with Patterns

In this bathroom, the classic white subway tile on the walls gives the bathroom a clean and polished look. A gray marble tub deck brings the room a sophisticated element, but it’s the use of bold black and off-white diamond-shaped tiles on the shower floor that gives it a contemporary touch.

The mixture of patterns here makes the bathroom more interesting, and the window adds natural light that highlights the playful design choice.

A spacious farmhouse bathroom with white subway tile on the walls and a checkered floor tile

Styled by Johanna Bradford, photographed by Henrik Linden for Alvhem

Install Darker Flooring to Ground the Room

The large white subway tile here is certainly timeless, but it’s the darker-colored, larger floor tile that helps to ground the space.

Note how almost every element here is white, like the vanity and walls, but the floor is featured in a much deeper, darker hue. The choice to install dark charcoal gray floor tile brings the bathroom a bold, two-toned look.

A penthouse bathroom with white tiles with grey grout

styled by Emma Fisher, photographed by Henrik Linden, via Alvhem

Get Creative with Funky Elements

This modern subway tile bathroom features smaller wall tiles with a slightly raised beveled edge for added character. The swirling green and white large marble floor tiles give this bathroom a funky, eclectic aesthetic.

Note that the clawfoot tub, floating vanity, and upper half of the room are white, while the subway tile has a slightly more ivory or putty tone. Compared to a classic subway tile, both the size and color tone of the tile add a unique touch to the space.

Beige bevelled subway tile in a bathroom with a green marble floor

Styled by Anna Van Keppel, photographed by Mia Borgelin, for sale via Historiska Hem

Install Subway Tile at Different Heights

Subway tile makes the ideal backdrop for a shower, but here, the designer chose to add it to the walls at varying heights. The tile covers most of the wall height inside the shower, but it’s slightly lower along another edge of the bathroom.

Since this bathroom has a clear glass shower door, opting to install the subway tile a bit lower outside of the shower helps to separate the space. The black floor tile also adds a nice dramatic contrast against the stark white walls.

A bathroom with a black floor tile and white subway tiles on the wall

Photographed by Ozolappa, styled by Lingsell for Historiska Hem

Blend Natural with Modern Materials

Ceramic subway tile adds a modern component to a bathroom, but here, the designer opted to add some wood trim to the upper half of the space. This creates a gorgeous juxtaposition of materials by blending natural elements with modern ones.

A mixture of white, black, and gray also gives this bathroom a contemporary touch, and the modern light fixtures work nicely with the large wood ceiling beams for an eye-catching blend of old and new.

White subway tile on the bottom half of the bathroom and grey wood trim on the top half

via Kvänum

Use Subway Tile to Frame a Section of the Bathroom

While many bathrooms use this classic tile to cover the walls or a shower or tub enclosure, here, it’s used to frame out the vanity area. The classic white subway tile was installed on a recessed part of the wall that holds the bathroom mirrors, lights, and double vanity.

In the rest of the room, you’ll find gray-colored wood wall trim that matches perfectly with the gray floors and vanity, while the top of the vanity also features the same white color as the tile.

Subway tile in a recessed area in the wall, paired with light grey wood panels on the rest of the bathroom walls

via Kvänum

Mix Patterns for a Playful Element

The same type of subway tile was used throughout the entire bathroom here, however, the floor tile was installed in a chic herringbone pattern. Aside from the unique combination of floor versus wall patterns, this subway tile is much narrower than its classic counterparts.

The choice to use thinner subway tile gives this bathroom a decidedly modern, updated aesthetic. Since all of the tile is the same color, it allows the sleek bathroom fixtures to stand out.

Vertical subway tile on the walls and herringbone tile flooring

Interior by Lotta Agaton for BTH Bostad

Go Big and Bold

Large white beveled subway tile is installed throughout this space, including on the bathroom walls, the wall of the laundry cubby area, and around the toilet. The bright white tile gives this bathroom a fresh, airy feel while the beveled edges bring it a splash of bold modern texture.

Notice how the grout lines are barely visible, which allows the unique style of this subway tile to be the star of the show.

Bevelled subway tile in an attic bathroom with a sloped ceiling

Styled by Copparstad, photographed by Boukari for Historiska Hem

Add Vibrant Colored Subway Tiles

Not all subway tile has to be white. For example, this bathroom features a lively green subway tile in the shower on the walls, ceiling, and shower floor. The rest of the room is lighter in color, allowing the shower to stand out while giving it a playful pop of color for a fun and funky feel.

The green subway tile is installed vertically on the shower walls to help make it look a bit larger.

A shower with a bold green subway tile installed vertically

via File under Pop

Use Subway Tile to Highlight Other Features

White is an excellent color to help draw attention to more distinctive features in a room. For example, this bathroom features white subway tile all over the walls, which helps to draw attention to the sleek gold accents including wall hooks, vanity hardware, and gold bathroom fixtures.

The white subway tile bathroom is paired with intricate detailing in the pattern on the bathroom floor, which provides the space with a characterful look.

A spacious bathroom with gold fixtures and a white subway tile on the walls

via Brspec

Bring Modern and Classic Elements Together

This bathroom boasts white subway tile around the edges of the wall for a subtle modern touch. The upper portion of the wall is painted in a neutral putty color that gives it a classic element. Combining these two accents gives the bathroom a nice mixture of slightly modern and traditional elements.

A half-tile bathroom with white subway tile and a putty wall color

via Alvhem

Get Dramatic with Darker Hues

If you need more inspiration, consider going darker. Here, shiny gray vertical subway tile with bright white grout adds a fantastic component to this contemporary bathroom. Black accents featured on the mirrors, shower door trim, and hardware tie everything together.

The white pedestal sink brings a pop of contrast, and the matching gray backsplash showcases gray tile trim that helps to give the bathroom a beautiful finish. Go for black subway tile if you want the contrasting effect even stronger.

Dramatic brown subway tile with white grout paired with chrome fixtures and a pink wall color

via Entrance Makleri

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19 unique rug wall art ideas to add texture to your interior

23-01-2024

Some rugs are a true work of art. Rather than just using them on the floor they seem more appropriate to be used as wall hangings. Using a beautiful rug as wall art can do wonders for your home decor, as it will add texture and color variation to your space.

Since most rugs are made of natural materials, they tend to add a warm effect and provide the room with a cozy appearance. Just like ticker curtains and other fabrics, they tend to absorb sound and get rid of any echo in your space.

Since rugs are not often picked as wall decor, they tend to add a more unique character to your walls. They are an easy pick to make a statement. Whether you choose to go bold or subtle, hanging rugs will surely create a wow effect in your space. In the list below, you can find my favorite rug wall art ideas for you to get inspired by.

Hanging rugs to complement the interior color in your living room

The light grey wall color in this turn-of-the-century living room is paired with a modest color in the furnishings while an eye-catching wall rug hangs proudly on display. The olive green tone in the rug comes back in the fresh green plants spread throughout the room.

A spacious living room with light grey walls and a gorgeous rug wall art piece

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Fredrik J Karlsson for sale via Alvhem

In the light grey living room below, a heavy-weight wool rug fills the wall space above the sofa and adds a cozy atmosphere to the room. The black lines in the rug pattern add a wonderful contrast to the setting.

A living room with light grey walls, beige wall hanging, black leather lounge chair, light textiles

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Jonas Berg for Stadshem

The warm red tones in the wall hanging in this warm beige living room catch the eye once you step into this living room. Putting a long rug will accentuate the ceiling height and make the room height even more impressive.

Red tones in a wall hanging against warm beige living room walls

via Ferm Living

Olive, grey, and beige tones in the wall rug stand out against a sage green living room wall color in a gorgeous historic living room. The rug fits within the boundaries of the wainscoting for an elegant effect.

Olive tones in a beautiful wall hanging against green-grey walls

via Ferm Living

The textured wool rug in this living room has loops so the rug is hanging on a wood stick as an easy wall-hanging system.

A spacious living room with a textural rug wall hanging

via Ferm Living

DIY your wall hanging with a small rug wrapped around a wood bar paired with string for a custom and budget-friendly solution that looks custom.

a DIY wall rug on hung over a wood bar against sage green walls

Styled by Emma Fisher and Annica Clarmell, photographed by Jens Eliasson for Bjurfors

Fill free space next to a doorway with a smaller rug to make it more special. Even though there is no need to fill every single wall space, adding a few art pieces will make your home look more finished and personal.

Rug wall art next to a doorway in a contemporary living room

via Ferm Living

The small studio living room in the example below has simple white walls with the rug above the sofa as the only wall decor. This makes the rug art even more special and it becomes a true focal point in the space.

Rug wall art as the focal point in a neutral living room

via Kvarteret Makleri

A striking balance has been achieved in the example below with a hanging rug on one side of the window and a cupboard with a table lamp on the other.

A majestic living room with a beautiful wall rug

via Ferm Living

Rug wall hangings add an original touch to a dining room

The warm wood tones of the dining table and chairs in this kitchen dining area are complemented by the gorgeous rug art with brown, yellow, and orange tones.

An impressive hanging rug in a cozy kitchen dining area

styled by Anna van Keppel, photographed by Elin Sylwan for Historiska Hem

Hang a graphic black and white rug to accentuate the contrasting materials in your interior. The cotton rug in the dining room below fills the empty wall space next to the black wall shelf and matches the black elements in the decor.

A black and white fabric wall art piece in a contrasting dining room space

via Ferm Living

The assymetric rug art matches this gorgeous interior with off-white walls perfectly. The doorway and fireplace frame the art perfectly and the subtle black elements in the rug add a bit of contrast to the natural color palette.

Rug wall art in a cozy dining room with an oak dining table and chairs and a cozy fireplace

Photographed by Ozolappa, styled by Lingsell for Historiska Hem

Match your rugs to the color palette of the space to achieve a comforting and balanced look. Both the floor rug and the wall hanging in this dining room are selected in a natural brown tone, matching the building materials of this beautiful arched room.

A spacious dining room with a brown rug on the wall

via Ferm Living

Adding a textural touch with rug wall hangings in a bedroom interior

The layering of the different fabrics on the bed, paired with the tick fabric headboard, the rug, and the patchwork curtains creates such a beautiful layering in this bedroom. The wall hanging adds warmth to the beige wall color and finishes the bedroom look off perfectly.

A beige bedroom with patchwork curtains, beige textiles, black accents and rug wall art

via Ferm Living and Design Hotel Villa Copenhagen

The unique Beni Ourain rug stands out against a darker sage green wall color, which makes the beige wool texture pop out powerfully in this bedroom.

A sage green bedroom with beige bedding, rug on the wall

via Stadshem

A unique and contemporary wall hanging adds a beautiful texture to a modern bedroom with concrete flooring and a natural color palette enhanced with rustic wood tones.

A rug art piece on the wall of a contemporary bedroom

Design by Studiotoff for Danish design brand Vipp

A polka dot rug on a wood bar decorates the space above a beige fabric headboard. The beige tones also come back in the textiles on the bed, the curtains, and the fabric pendant light.

A bedroom with a natural color palette and a hanging wall rug

styled by Emma Fisher and Annica Clarmell, photographed by Henrik Linden, for Alvhem

A home office with a textural rug on the wall

Wall hangings are a great way to add a bit of personality to your home office spot. Other than adding a gorgeous pattern and texture, the rug will also absorb unwanted sounds from online meetings when you are working in a shared space.

A home office with a textured wall hanging

via Ferm Living

Rug wall art to add a playful touch to a kid’s bedroom

In the example below, a kid’s bedroom is decorated with a heavy rug in the shape of a polar bear, adding a playful touch to a gorgeous bedroom setting.

A polar bear rug wall art in a cozy kid's room

via Ferm Living

A quilted blanket is hung up above the bed in a kid’s room. The pear print adds a graphic touch to the space, complementing the apple rattan basket next to the bed.

A kid's room with a quilted pear blanket as wall art

via Ferm Living

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Poul Kjærholm’s iconic PK1 chair from Carl Hansen & Søn with a paper cord seat

21-01-2024

As one of the biggest names in Danish furniture design, Poul Kjærholm is celebrated for his uncompromising approach to form, materials, and craftsmanship: three elements that were instrumental in the Danish Modern movement.

Poul Kjærholm created the PK1 chair in 1955. The iconic design was his first chair design and paired brushed steel and wicker. After adding the PK1 chair to their collection in 2017, Carl Hansen & Søn reintroduced the PK1 chair in steel and FSC-certified paper cord, a natural and durable material that patinates beautifully over time.

Even though the paper cord is a new element introduced to the design, the newly launched chair looks exceptionally familiar and is a testament to the iconic furniture piece designed by the master furniture architect in the fifties.

The PK1 chair designed by Poul Kjærholm's relaunched by Carl Hansen & Søn

Poul Kjærholm: one of the star architects behind Danish Modern

Poul Kjærholm was known for his functionalistic approach to furniture design, cultivating simplicity and lightness in his designs. His favorite material was steel, and he excelled at combining it with other organic materials.

Both his functionalistic approach and his talent for combining steel with other materials are reflected in the design of the PK1 dining chair. The clean and minimalistic lines of the steel frame are in perfect balance with the comfort and softness of the paper cord (or wicker in his initial design from 1955).

According to Knud Erik Hansen, third-generation owner-manager of Carl Hansen & Son the designer’s ability to combine functionality with aesthetics in a light and elegant way is what makes him a natural member of the design family of Carl Hansen & Son.

The design of the PK1 chair

The classic PK1 dining chair is comfortable, lightweight, and stackable, which makes it suitable for both private and public use. Its’ lightness and form make it a perfect addition to a range of different interior styles.

The PK1 chair is available in a stainless steel or black powder-coated steel frame, both paired with a beautiful paper cord seat. I was fortunate enough to be able to try out the stainless steel chair in my own home and I love how the combination of materials complements the minimal decor and modest color palette in my home.

The modern finish on the stainless steel contrasts with the beautiful and intricate weaving of the paper cord, resulting in a perfect balance between the two materials.

A switch in construction materials to ensure longevity

Carl Hansen & Son is known for incorporating paper cord in their production. In the PK1 chair, the paper cord complements the steel elegantly. It takes a skilled craftsman a full 15 hours and 180 meters of cord to hand weave the all-in-one seat and back on the PK1.

The intricate weaving technique is inspired by Kjærholm’s original work with wicker and looks just as beautiful from the front as from the back. Carl Hansen & Son has worked in close cooperation with the Kjærholm family to develop a weaving technique for the PK1 chair that brings together the best of both Poul Kjærholm and Carl Hansen & Son.

Other than an update in materials, the size of the original chair has been adjusted. The dimensions of the chair have been scaled up by 6% to match the size of people today, as people have increased in size significantly since the PK1 was launched in the mid-1950s.

This blog post was written in collaboration with Carl Hansen & Son, however, as always, my opinions are my own.

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A dark grey shaker kitchen and a blue sofa in a historic flat with light grey walls

20-01-2024

I love the subtle color balance achieved in this beautiful turn-of-the-century apartment in Sweden (Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Fredrik J Karlsson for Alvhem). The spacious kitchen with a dining table in the middle of the room is connected to the living room with historic double interior doors and I love how you can look from one room into the other.

The kitchen features dark grey shaker cabinets that spread across the kitchen wall. The absence of upper cabinets gives the space a light and airy look despite the darker cabinet color. The brass hardware adds an elegant focal point to the shaker cabinets and the spacious dining table in the middle of the room is great for gathering with friends and family.

Both the living room and bedroom have a light grey wall color, which is paired with a natural color palette. The contrast of the blue sofa in the living room works wonderfully with the crisp white wainscoting on the wall.

A grey shaker kitchen with gold hardware, white marble countertops, white tile walls and stainless steel appliances

Dark grey shaker cabinets and gold hardware for a contrasting look in the kitchen

The spacious kitchen has a row of lower modules without upper cabinets on one of the kitchen walls. Since the walls are painted white, this contrasting layout has a light and airy effect in the space.

The dark grey shaker cabinets are paired with brass hardware, a white marble countertop, and stainless steel appliances. The backsplash is treated with white tile that brightens the color palette.

A large wall shelf is applied right above the tile backsplash. This shelving is a perfect spot for adding the prettiest kitchen essentials on display.

The kitchen has a one-wall layout, which works well in the space.

The wall opposed to the window has a built-in pantry, followed by two large cupboards that include the fridge. The side of the large cupboard is finished with open shelving perfect for decor pieces or cookbooks.

A grey shaker kitchen with gold hardware and a built-in pantry

The classic dining table and chairs are placed on top of a light grey area rug that adds a beautiful texture to the white-soaped hardwood flooring.

A kitchen with white walls, a vintage glass cabinet and a spacious dining table

A vintage glass cabinet in a warm wood tone finishes off the kitchen design and adds a beautiful historic touch.

Through those beautiful white-painted historic double doors, you can catch a glimpse of the living room.

A living room with light grey walls, white wainscoting and a blue sofa

White wainscoting, light grey walls, and a blue couch in the living room

The light grey living room wall color is finished off with gorgeous white wainscoting that matches the white crown molding below the ceiling. This white and grey backdrop makes the dark blue fabric couch stand out in a lovely way. The cool tones also come back in the combination of art prints hung above the sofa.

A vintage glass cabinet is painted in a grey color that is just a few shades darker than the light grey tone on the walls, allowing it to pop out elegantly and subtly.

The blue couch is paired with a black marble coffee table and two vintage armchairs complete the look perfectly. The vintage sideboard next to the double interior door is finished with a round mirror.

The warm wood tone on the sideboard adds a warm element to the space and the green Monstera plant adds a fresh touch to the color palette.

The contrasting furniture pieces are complemented with a mix of neutral tones in the textiles and accessories, which gives the space a cozy appearance and a finished look.

Light grey bedroom walls and warm textiles

The light grey bedroom wall color adds a subtle contrast with the white ceiling and crown molding. The wall color also makes the white wardrobe stand out. The mixture of beige and brown textiles on the bed paired with the black wall lamp works well in the room.

A bedroom with light grey walls, beige and brown textiles and a white wardrobe in a corner layout

The classic white wardrobe is built in a corner layout, allowing a lot of storage space on a relatively small surface.

A guest bedroom and home office combined

The guest bedroom has a bright white color palette finished with beige and brown tones on the bed. This color palette has similarities with the main bedroom.

A guest bedroom with a home office spot included in the wall shelving

Opposed to the bed, you can find wall shelving with an integrated bedroom home office, which is a great combination of functionalities.

An entryway with an asymmetrical floor plan

The entryway pairs a tile floor by the entry and white-soaped wood flooring in the rest of the space. The grey storage module with drawers turns into a seating bench for putting your shoes on.

A large wardrobe module fits perfectly in between two doorways and provides this space with extra storage opportunity.

Hexagon floor tiles and gold fixtures in the bathroom

The bathroom pairs a light grey hexagon floor tile with a simple white tile on the walls. The brass fixtures add a finishing touch to these different materials and apply a warm element to the space.

A bathroom with light grey hexagon floor tile, white tile and brass fixtures

A bathroom with white tile and brass fixtures

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Fredrik J Karlsson for Alvhem

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14 floor-to-ceiling kitchen cabinet ideas for an impressive effect

19-01-2024

Storage space is a hot commodity in any kitchen, and installing floor-to-ceiling cabinets can do wonders for this important part of your home. Moreover, a kitchen that fills an entire wall has an impressive design effect on the room, especially if you are working with high ceilings.

Whether you’re pondering a full kitchen remodel or you’re looking for new ways to add more room for spices, pots, pans, and cooking tools, check out this list of the most inspiring floor-to-ceiling kitchen cabinet ideas to help you get started.

Use Glass Doors to Showcase Special Items

This kitchen features a pair of wall cabinets with glass doors on either side of the center cabinet area. While some of the upper cabinets have solid doors, the clear glass lets you showcase some of your most collectible items, your favorite set of China, or a collection of coffee mugs.

The intricate crown molding makes the transition from the grey cabinets to the ceiling so elegant. It also finishes the space and adds a historic touch. The gray backsplash created by the wall color matches perfectly with the cabinet color and creates a cohesive effect in the space.

A light grey kitchen with light grey walls, cabinets that go up to the ceiling and intricate crown molding

Styled by Mia Laaksonen, photographed by Henrik Linden for Alvhem

Design a Synergistic Space

To create a cohesive aesthetic, choose cabinetry in the same color or finish throughout the entire kitchen. As you can see in this kitchen, the creamy white cabinets extend from the lower section up to the very top.

This design trick not only gives the kitchen a beautiful, coordinated look but also draws the eye up, creating the illusion of a larger space. Note how the cabinet that goes from floor to ceiling on the left can also serve as a roomy hidden pantry.

An off-white kitchen that fills the entire walls space for an impressive effect

via Nordiska Kök

Use Open Cabinets to Break Up a Space

Your floor-to-ceiling cabinets don’t have to be in the same design across the entire wall. This kitchen features one large open wine cabinet next to the kitchen island, which helps to create a visual “break.”

Adding an open cabinet section or floating shelves creates a wonderful area to display your favorite cookbooks, a beautiful piece of serveware, or a few small sculptures that add a whimsical element to the kitchen.

A majestic off-white kitchen with floor-to-ceiling cabinets, LED lighting and a walnut wood wine cabinet

via Sjöman Frisk

Leave Part of the Wall Open and free of upper cabinets

The kitchen cabinets don’t necessarily need to take up the whole wall, even when it’s floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. Consider leaving a section of the wall open to highlight some fun architectural details. Add a mosaic tile backsplash or a rustic shiplap wall to give this part of the kitchen a pop of personality.

Not only will this give your kitchen a unique look, but it also ensures you have extra prep space. Note how this kitchen intentionally left the area above the sink and the cooktop devoid of any tall cabinets so there’s nothing but extra room to prep and cook.

A pine wood kitchen with an impressive wall cabinet that goes up to the ceiling

Styled by Thomas Lingsell, photographed by Per Orchidéen for Historiska Hem

Create Visual Contrast with Color

Using color is a perfect way to create a gorgeous contrast in this space. In the kitchen you see here, the white countertops extend across and toward the kitchen island, while the beautiful sage green cabinet color gives it a two-toned look.

You can also add contrast through small details like hardware, a farmhouse sink and light fixtures. For example, this kitchen uses shimmering brass hardware on the cabinets and the stainless steel appliances.

Note how part of the walls use the same material as the countertop for the backsplash, and the rest are painted in sage green to match the cabinets.

A sage green corner kitchen layout with white marble countertops and wall cabinets that reach the ceiling

via Kulladal

Eliminate Dead Space

This kitchen has plenty of large cabinets on the top and bottom throughout, ensuring that there is absolutely no wasted space. The corner by the wall can be used as a coffee station, while the center sink is perfect for doing dishes and food prep.

No square inch of this kitchen is wasted, which means there’s ample space to store and organize everything from plates and silverware to small appliances.

A sage green kitchen with a combination of wood and stainless steel countertops against a white tile backsplash and cabinets that continue up to the ceiling

via Kulladal

Keep Lighting in Focus

A large window in this open kitchen provides tons of natural light for cooking and eating. Not only does this make the kitchen look brighter, but it also keeps it from feeling too dark and dramatic. The integrated appliances also add a sophisticated element to this modern kitchen.

The refrigerator is neatly tucked behind the matching cabinet doors to lend the space a sleek and elevated look. Note how the dining area is part of the kitchen, and a ceiling pendant light helps to signify the difference between the two rooms, even without walls.

The upper cabinets are placed so high that a ladder can be used on top of the steel ladder rail that is applied in between both wall cabinet rows.

An impressive grey kitchen with a wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling kitchen module and an integrated ladder rail

Styled by Emma Fischer, Linnéa H. Manaberi, and Annica Clarmell, photographed by Anders Bergstedt for Alvhem

Make the Most of a Corner Area

The design of this contemporary corner kitchen highlights the large cabinets, but it also gives the corner area a completely different look. A window above the sink and a glass door leading to the outside bring in natural light.

At the opposite corner, open shelves provide a great space for display or open storage. This not only gives the kitchen an interesting look but also adds more functionality to smaller interiors.

A pink corner layout kitchen with floor-to-ceiling wall cabinets

via &Schufl

High-End Materials Lend a Luxe Look

While floor-to-ceiling cabinets give you tons of storage, the finishes you choose tie it all together. Solid surface materials like granite or marble add an upscale element to any cooking space. Note how this kitchen features the same stone across the wall behind the sink to serve as a backsplash.

Solid wood cabinets and a high-quality floor will add inspiration to any kitchen, regardless of the size or layout. Focus on the materials when choosing counters, floors, and cabinets to ensure that you’ve created your dream kitchen.

An elegant kitchen with wall-to-wall wood cabinets and an impressive marble finish with wall cabinets that continue up to the ceiling

via Nordiska Kök

Maximize as Much Storage as Possible

Although this looks like a small space, the floor-to-ceiling cabinet design to the left offers tons of extra storage. This extra-tall cabinet serves as a pantry while keeping important essentials close to the prep and cook area.

Even smaller kitchens can benefit when tall ceiling kitchen cabinets and roomy lower cabinets are installed. Use every available wall area to make sure that your kitchen is never devoid of storage space.

Light grey kitchen cabinets that go up to the ceiling for an impressive an integrated effect

via Entrance Makleri

Designing Multi-Purpose Rooms with floor-to-ceiling cabinets

Since this home has an open floor plan, it’s important to integrate as much closed storage in the kitchen area as possible. Note how the kitchen has a wall oven instead of a larger separate oven that could interfere with available floor space.

Installing central tall units gives you a place for more than just kitchen items. They can also be used to hide extra throw pillows and blankets, books, and other things you might use in the rest of this studio apartment.

A studio space with a wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling kitchen that serves as storage space for the entire apartment

via Bjurfors

Keep it Neutral

Warm plywood makes this kitchen a cozy yet functional space. The tall floor-to-ceiling cabinet on one side gives the homeowner the added storage they need to avoid making the space feel cluttered. Using light or neutral colors and materials can make even the smallest kitchen look and feel larger overall.

A plywood kitchen with wall cabinets that go up to the ceiling

via Historiska Hem

Add Modern Elements

This small studio apartment features a blue shaker kitchen with floor-to-ceiling cabinets finished off with a trim below the ceiling. This provides the apartment with lots of storage space, while the blue adds a modern character to the design of the studio space.

A blue shaker kitchen with cabinets that go from floor to ceiling to offer ample storage oportunity in this studio space

via Entrance Makleri

Make Everything Work Together

This open, modern kitchen integrates every element so it works well for casual meals and entertaining. From the plethora of floor-to-ceiling cabinets to the white-painted hardwood floors, this kitchen gives you ample room to cook, chat, and enjoy meals all in one space.

By placing wall cabinets on top of one of the kitchen modules only, the space remains light and airy, even though it integrates so much storage space.

A kitchen with white walls, white plank floors and a light grey kitchen with floor-to-ceiling cabinets

via Alvhem

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A playful Swedish flat with a pink entryway and blue bedroom wallpaper

14-01-2024

Wall colors and treatments can transform a space completely, as this cozy Swedish apartment (Styled by Martina Mattsson, photographed by Krister Engström for Kvarteret Makleri) shows. The pink entryway can be seen from both the kitchen and the living room and adds a wonderfully playful effect to the color palette of the apartment.

The living room has a natural palette, with grey walls and grey furniture pieces blending in. These grey surfaces make the vintage furniture pieces stand out, yet the real focal point in the space is the TV cabinet. This furniture piece has been painted in an eye-catching sky-blue color, adding a vibrant touch to the space.

The simple white kitchen has a two-tone wall that adds much interest to this room. The vintage dining table and chairs form a cozy spot for dining. The bedroom features a beautiful blue floral wallpaper, a rattan headboard, and a blue-painted vintage cabinet for storing clothes.

A Sewdish apartment with a pink entryway and two-tone walls in the kitchen

A modest living room with vintage elements and a sky-blue TV cabinet

The greige wall color in the living room has subtle green undertones, which pair well with the selection of green plants added to the space. The grey fabrics and soft furnishings blend in nicely with the wall color, while the vintage coffee table and armchair introduce a few warm wood tones.

A greige living room with a grey soft furnishings and vintage elements

The books on the living room bookshelf are arranged by color, introducing a playful library rainbow to the room. The vintage floor lamp and the curtains on the bottom of the bookshelf add a subtle romantic touch to the setting.

A greige living room with a rainbow book shelf

The TV cabinet is painted sky-blue, making it stand out against the subtle wall color of the living room.

A greige living room with a sky-blue TV cabinet

A simple white kitchen with two-tone walls

The simple white kitchen is enhanced with a two-tone wall color, which adds an extra dimension to the space. The warm beige color on the bottom half of the walls adds a subtle warmth that matches the wood countertop of the kitchen.

A basic white kitchen with two-tone walls and a vintage dining table and chairs

The vintage dining table and chairs add a lot of character to the kitchen space and the gingham tablecloth fits the look perfectly.

Blue bedroom wallpaper paired with a blue-painted vintage wardrobe

The floral blue bedroom wallpaper transforms the space and adds an amazing texture to the walls. The rattan headboard stands out against the dark blue background created by the wallpaper and the mix of white and grey linen bedding brightens up the look.

A bedroom with a floral blue wallpaper, a rattan headboard and vintage elements

A vintage crate on the wall forms the perfect bedside table, which is decorated with a vintage table lamp perfect for reading at night.

A blue-painted vintage wardrobe complements the wallpaper perfectly and I love the way you can see the clothes hanging through those glass doors.

A bedroom with a floral blue wallpaper and a blue-painted vintage wardrobe

The wall space on top of the doorway is a great spot for a wall shelf to store more books.

A small entryway with a pink wall color

The entryway is small, yet provides the apartment with a bold effect because of the choice of wall color. The vintage chest of drawers adds a characterful element to the space and the Klimt poster complements the wall color.

The original built-in closet is painted in the same pink color as the walls, with dark pink trim on the closet doors to make it stand out in the space.

Styled by Martina Mattsson, photographed by Krister Engström for Kvarteret Makleri

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Pale green kitchen cabinets and light grey limewash walls

13-01-2024

This beautiful Swedish flat with a pale green kitchen (for sale via Bjurfors) has a fresh yet cozy appearance. This look is achieved by pairing a minimal interior decor with black accent pieces and limewash walls in the living room and bedroom.

The kitchen has pale green cabinets, which add a subtle and fresh element to the open floor plan. The dining table with black bentwood chairs connects the living room with the kitchen and ties the look of both functional areas together.

The walls of the living room and main bedroom are painted in a subtle light grey limewash, adding a lovely texture to the walls and eliminating the need for much decor. The fresh green plants are almost the only element of color in the rooms, for a subtle effect.

A kitchen with pale green kitchen cabinets, light wood countertops, chrome hardware, black appliances, white tile backsplash, and a dining table with black bentwood chairs

Pale green kitchen cabinets paired with light wood countertops

The pale green kitchen cabinets have a subtle effect in this open-plan kitchen. The green plants bring out the green undertones in the cabinet fronts, while the light wood countertop adds a warm element to the color palette.

The chrome hardware and stainless steel faucet bring a modern element to the setting. The walls, on the other hand, are finished with a white tile for a clean look with a subtle industrial effect.

A simple extendable wooden table by the window is paired with contrasting black bentwood chairs.

The contrasting black chairs pair well with the black appliances in the kitchen.

A living room with light grey limewash walls

The cozy living room features light grey limewash walls for a wonderful texture throughout the space. The black TV cabinet and coffee table add a wonderful contrast to the otherwise neutral color palette.

The grey fabric sofa blends in with the grey wall behind it and is decorated with a mixture of grey and white throw pillows. The white area rug adds a beautiful texture to the hardwood flooring and makes the black coffee tables stand out.

The green wall lamp and green plants add a vibrant element to the living room.

The grey-painted IKEA Ivar cabinet is a budget-friendly storage option for the area in between the window and the sofa.

A living room with light grey limewash walls, and an IKEA Ivar cabinet painted in the same color

A simple bedroom with grey limewash walls

The main bedroom is treated with the same color limewash as the one that is used in the living room. The subtle combination of grey and white fabrics on the bed and in the lampshades makes for a delicate and neutral look in the room.

A main bedroom with light grey limewash paint on the walls and a neutral color palette in the textiles and furniture pieces

An office room decorated in a neutral color palette

The office space follows the overall neutral color palette used in the rest of the apartment, with green plants and black accents adding a few points of interest in an otherwise neutral setting.

An office room with grey walls, neutral colors and green and black accents

An entryway with grey walls and a custom storage module

The entryway is painted in a subtle grey wall color and features a custom storage module with drawers that fit perfectly into a niche space in the wall.

An entryway with light grey walls and a custom storage module

via Bjurfors

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16 Olive green kitchen ideas for an elegant yet modern look

11-01-2024

Olive green cabinets are a timeless color choice that works both in modern as well as in classic kitchen designs. This natural yet sophisticated color can be paired with a wide variety of materials and colors in your kitchen.

You can opt for light olive tones for a subtle effect, or go for dark green kitchen cabinets to add a dramatic touch to the space. White countertops will add a more minimal appearance, while wood tones will add a rustic touch.

In the list below, I have gathered my favorite kitchen ideas with olive green kitchen cabinets for you to take inspiration from for your next remodel.

Match your wall color to your green kitchen cabinets for a tone-on-tone look

The olive green cabinets in this gorgeous farmhouse kitchen are matched by the paint color used on the walls. Even the ceilings are painted in the same olive green color, resulting in an impressive and inviting space.

From the backdrop of the olive green, the white marble countertop, marble sink, and marble backsplash pop out powerfully. Lastly, the black and white checkerboard marble flooring finishes off the look nicely.

An olive green kitchen paired with the same color on the walls and ceilings, finished with white marble

via DeVol Kitchens

Add a modern touch of glam with brass fixtures and hardware

The dark olive green kitchen cabinets in this impressive corner kitchen layout pair nicely with the hardwood flooring in this kitchen. The olive tone on the cabinets is paired with a beige limestone countertop and backsplash. As the cherry on top, the kitchen design is finished with brass hardware and a brass faucet for a subtle glam effect that adds depth. The brass also comes back on the trim underneath the cabinets.

an olive green corner kitchen with beige limestone countertops, finished with brass elements for a glamorous look

via Picky Living

Go floor-to-ceiling for an impressive and space-saving effect

The olive green shaker cabinets in this studio home are built floor-to-ceiling for an impressive effect in the space and lots of storage opportunities. The matte finish on the green cabinetry is paired with a delicate beige limestone countertop. Finally, the chrome hardware adds a modern element to the kitchen cabinetry.

A floor-to-ceiling olive green kitchen with beige limestone countertops and minimal chrome hardware

via Entrance Makleri

Balance olive green cabinets with white upper glass cabinets

This two-tone kitchen features subtle olive cabinetry on the bottom finished off with a grey limestone countertop. The upper cabinets are white to provide the kitchen with an overall lighter appearance.

The natural elements in the kitchen accessories and the cabinet inlay balance out this white, grey, and olive green color palette.

A two-tone kitchen pairing white and olive green cabinets with a grey limestone countertop

via Nordiska Kök

Stainless steel appliances add a modern metallic touch

The pale olive green cabinets in this farmhouse kitchen design are balanced out by the stainless steel countertop and the white subway tile backsplash, which provide a subtle industrial touch to the beautiful setting.

This perfect shade stands out against all the white surfaces in the space. Meanwhile, the stainless steel appliances add a modern element.

A sage green kitchen with wood and stainless steel countertops

Photographed by Lisa Wikstrand, styled by Helen Sturesson for Kulladal

Pair a pale shade of olive green with contrasting black countertops

This modern farmhouse kitchen gets a lot of natural light through the large window, which is reflected beautifully onto the pale olive green cabinets with a warm undertone.

To add a bit of contrast, the olive green tone is paired with black countertops for a contrasting effect. Lastly, the soft wood tones in the dining table and chairs provide a warm glow to the olive color of the cabinets.

An olive green farmhouse kitchen with warm undertones paired with black countertops

via Stadshem

Pick an olive green with blue undertones for a cooler effect in the room

The cabinets in this room are painted in a shade of green-grey with blue undertones, resulting in a cooler aesthetic. The green cabinetry is paired with subtle chrome hardware, a farmhouse sink, stainless steel appliances, and chrome hardware.

To finish the upper part of the layout, a vintage white glass cabinet is added, resulting in a light and unique look.

green kitchen cabinets with blue undertones, white vintage glass cabinet above the counter

via Picky Living

Use olive green to add depth to a minimal kitchen design

White kitchen cabinets are often preferred in a minimal and modern kitchen. If you are looking to add a bit more depth, olive green cabinets are a great option to fit within a minimal aesthetic.

In the example below the olive green tone of the cabinetry pops out of the white walls and hardwood flooring, while ensuring the clean look remains. To finish the room off, the black pendant lights above the counter add an elegant contrast.

A minimal kitchen design with olive green kitchen cabinets

via Reform CPH

Dark green kitchen cabinets in a two-tone look pairs the best of both worlds

The olive green on the bottom cabinets is complemented by a beige terrazzo countertop and white and wood cabinets on the upper part of the layout.

The upper cabinets rest on top of the lower cabinets directly and the ribbed glass of the cabinet doors adds a lovely texture to the white frames.

A two-tone kitchen pairing white and green cabinetry and a beige terrazzo countertop

via Himlekök

Go for olive green to add a modern touch to a farmhouse kitchen

A classic kitchen design can be made to appear more modern by selecting a fresh color palette. The green tone on these classic shaker cabinets provides a subtle modern look to this classic setting.

The white backsplash with shiplap panelling accentuates the impressive height of the kitchen, while also allowing the olive green kitchen cabinets and dark elements to stand out.

A farmhouse kitchen with a white shiplap backsplash and green cabinetry

via Kitchens and Beyond

Complement dark olive tones with warm elements

You can find complementary colors in the countertop materials and the leather details throughout the olive kitchen in the example below. The leather details on the rail and bench seat cushion, paired with the beige limestone countertop provide a warm aesthetic to this space.

Instead of leather, you can also work with copper hardware to add a warm tone to your olive-green cabinets.

an olive green kitchen paired with warm leather details

via Ballingslōv

Apply the olive green palette to your kitchen island as well

The olive green cabinets in this kitchen are paired with an olive green kitchen island. Both kitchen modules are fitted with white marble countertops, which softens the transition between the dark olive color of the cabinets and the light grey kitchen wall color.

Muted olive green kitchen cabinets paired with white marble countertops and a kitchen island

Styled by Linnéa H. Manaberi and Emma Fischer, photographed by Fredrik J Karlsson for Alvhem

Olive green as a complementary element in a family room

The olive green kitchen module stands out against the light grey walls of this living kitchen, without overpowering the look of the space. The white marble countertops and the white subway tiles on the backsplash lighten the dark tones of the green cabinetry.

An olive green kitchen with marble countertops, subway tile backsplash and chrome hardware

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Fredrik J Karlsson, for sale via Alvhem

Pair your olive green cabinets with dark wood countertops

The olive green cabinets on this corner layout kitchen are paired with dark butcher block countertops for a subtly rustic effect. Both the wood tones and the olive green pop out against the backdrop created by the white hardwood flooring and the white shiplap backsplash.

To finish things off, a white dining table and chairs are placed in front of the kitchen window. The dining set blends in with the walls and flooring and doesn’t take any attention away from the olive green in the background.

A sage green kitchen with dark wood countertops and horizontal shiplap on the walls

Styled by Linnéa H. Manaberi, photographed by Anders Bergstedt for Alvhem

Add a playful element to bring the olive green cabinets to life

This kitchen design pairs olive green cabinets with an elaborate hexagon tile backsplash and leather cabinet pulls for a unique and modern aesthetic in the space. The grown-up color choice of the cabinets is paired with a playful element in the tiles, which results in a striking balance.

A kitchen with olive green cabinets, cognac leather handles, stainless steel countertops, green and pink polygon tiles

via Historiska Hem

Pair Olive Green with a Warm Wall Color

When you love green but are afraid it won’t have a warm effect in your space, pair it with a warm wall color like warm beige or soft pink just like in the example below. The white wall lamps and the white crown moldings are accentuated by using this striking combination of warm walls with green cabinetry.

Olive green kitchen cabinets paired with a subtle dusty pink wall color for a beautiful effect

via Fantastic Frank

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15 contrasting kitchen island ideas to create a focal point

09-01-2024

A contrasting kitchen island is the best way to make your kitchen design stand out. A kitchen island in a different color or material can create the focal point that takes your kitchen design from regular to stylish.

You can go for complementary colors to create a bold look, or work with a difference in materials to add texture and make your kitchen island stand out against the rest of your kitchen cabinets.

In the list below, you will find my favorite ideas for creating a kitchen design with a contrasting kitchen island. The inspirations range from bold color combinations to modest pairings of materials for a more subdued look.

Work with complementary colors to achieve a playful contemporary space

Let’s start with the boldest one of the contrasting kitchen island ideas on the list, shall we? The large kitchen island in the middle of the space is picked out in a beautiful pink color, that stands out against the sky-blue kitchen cabinets against the wall.

Not only are the colors of the cabinets different, but the countertops are also selected in different materials, setting the two modules apart even more.

The pink kitchen island has a wood countertop, while the light blue kitchen cabinets are finished with a white marble countertop. The gold hardware unites the two different kitchen modules.

A light blue kitchen paired with a pink kitchen island that results in a kitchen design with great contrast

via Cupboard and Goods

Create a tone-on-tone backdrop to make your island stand out

The distinctive paint color of the contrasting kitchen island pops out powerfully against the subdued background of the sage-green farmhouse-style kitchen. The shiplap kitchen backsplash is painted in the same color as the kitchen cabinets, resulting in a tone-on-tone setting from which the contrasting kitchen island pops out even more.

A farmhouse kitchen with a contrasting kitchen island in a complementary color

via Cupboard and Goods

Create a white island with the same countertop as your main kitchen module

The marble countertops in this kitchen with dark wood cabinets are also used on the backsplash and on the statement island which is the kitchen’s focal point. The marble back panel on the kitchen island makes it look like a solid block, which gives it an even more impressive presence in the space.

An oak wood kitchen with a marble island and a glass and wood partition in between the kitchen and the dining room

via Nordiska Kök

Go for a contrasting kitchen with a dark-tone island

The off-white cabinetry with glass front cabinets in this gorgeous farmhouse kitchen with kitchen wallpaper is finished off with a classic wood island and bar stools made out of the same material.

The dark wood tone and grey limestone countertop on the kitchen island stand out against the light-soaped hardwood flooring of the room.

A classic dark wood kitchen island contrasts against an off-white farmhouse kitchen design

via Nordiska Kök

Add a pop of color to a white kitchen

The white cabinets in this minimal kitchen design blend into the white walls of the space. The green kitchen island pops out of this white backdrop, transforms the white kitchen design, and provides it with a unique appearance.

A green kitchen island stands out against a minimal white kitchen design

via Reform CPH

Play with natural materials for a contrast that blends in with its surroundings

In this white kitchen, the dark wood island paired with rattan bar stools and a white quartz countertop stands out in an understated yet impactful way. The white cabinets of the main kitchen module blend in with the white walls, while the kitchen island in the middle of the space blends in with the wood finish of the flooring.

A white kitchen with a contrasting kitchen island in a dark wood tone

via Himlekök

A contrast of materials in a playful contemporary kitchen

In the kitchen below, the stunning island made out of stainless steel contrasts with the pink kitchen cabinets that are finished off with terrazzo countertops.

The kitchen island not only stands out because it’s made out of a different material but its round shape and organic appearance are very distinct from the clean lines of the rest of the kitchen design.

A pink kitchen with terrazzo countertops and a contrasting stainless steel kitchen island with an organic shape

via Himlekök

White cabinets paired with a black marble island in the middle

The oversized island in this space is made out of black marble, paired with black pendant lights and black chairs for an overall black-and-white kitchen color palette.

Statement kitchen islands like this one tend to work well in a minimal space, as they grab all the attention. In this example, the black island is paired with subdued white cabinets that blend in with the white wall color.

The black shape of the kitchen island comes back with the black-stained mirror on the wall for an interesting effect in the space.

a contrasting kitchen island in black marble in a kitchen with white cabinets

via Ballingslōv

Go a few shades darker with your kitchen island for a tonal effect

The teal blue kitchen island is painted a few shades darker than the cabinets and the walls in this spacious historic kitchen space. This way, the kitchen island stands out in the room, yet in a subtle way that allows for a classy and tranquil aesthetic and a balanced look.

A tea blue kitchen island in a light blue kitchen with light blue walls

via Kitchen and Beyond

Pair different styles together for a classy kitchen design

In this spacious beige shaker kitchen, the classic wood island stands center stage and introduces a historic element into the room. The white countertop contrasts nicely with the dark wood tone on the kitchen island, finished off with subtle brass hardware.

Even though the white countertop of the kitchen island has a classic look, it has a modern induction cooktop seamlessly integrated into the stone countertop.

A beige shaker style kitchen with a wooden kitchen island

via Artilleriet kitchen studio

Pair your stainless steel appliances with a stainless steel island

The dark wood cabinets and white oak wood flooring in this modern kitchen are paired with an impressive steel kitchen island with lots of storage space.

The contrasting kitchen island made out of steel matches the impressive range hood in the same material. The modern brushed steel surface pairs well with the natural texture in the different wood tones for an interesting pairing of materials.

A combination of dark wood kitchen cabinets with stainless steel drawers on the kitchen island

via Nordiska Kök

Create a subtle yet contrasting island in the countertop material

In this two-tone kitchen, the beige stone countertop used on the main kitchen module and backsplash also come back in the waterfall kitchen island in the middle of the space.

The waterfall effect makes the beautiful texture of the stone countertop stand out and it unites the look of the entire kitchen.

A beige stone kitchen island stands out against a two-tone kitchen design

via Nordiska Kök

Differentiate with the wood tone and unite with the countertop material

Imagine this gorgeous kitchen space with a blue island and it wouldn’t have such a unique appearance, wouldn’t it? The natural oak kitchen island is surrounded by blue-stained wood kitchen cabinets in this big space with an abundance of natural light.

The color palette is finished off with brass hardware on the blue kitchen cabinets and a white marble countertop that unites the kitchen island visually with the rest of the kitchen layout.

A natural oak kitchen island paired with blue kitchen cabinets, white marble countertops and brass hardware

via Historiska Hem

Pair natural stone with a full-wood kitchen

The dark wood kitchen cabinets in this modern space are paired with a wooden countertop for a dark and moody appearance that contrasts against the white oak wood flooring.

In front of the dark wood elements, a large island with quartz sides and a quartz countertop makes for an extraordinary eye-catcher. The stacked stone island has a clean and minimal look, that pairs well with the natural texture of the dark wood cabinetry and the herringbone flooring.

A quartz stone kitchen island paired with light hardwood herringbone flooring and dark wood kitchen cabinets

via Norm Architects

Create a beautiful contrast with your kitchen flooring

While the terrazzo kitchen island doesn’t stand out that much against the white cabinetry, it does pop out against the black and white checkerboard kitchen flooring. The tick, clean lines of the island pair well with the classic white cabinetry against the walls.

Inside the kitchen island, wood finish shelves allow more room for the storage of herbs and spices, making the kitchen island both functional and elegant.

A contrasting terrazzo kitchen island on top of a black-and-white checkerboard floor

via Ferm Living

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