Kitchens are fast becoming the new living room, as it is inevitable for the host and his/her guests to end up in the kitchen after a long day of socializing. The kitchen is also a reflection of the homeowner’s personality and tastes. Therefore, having a presentable and functional kitchen design is a must in every home.

· Contemporary.

A contemporary kitchen is sleek and minimalist in design. It exudes the image of modern and post-modern times—geometric, calculated, and futuristic. There is an abundance of straight lines, and a lack of elaborate moldings.

Countertops and other materials and furnishings are commonly stainless steel, laminate, or glass, among others. Dominant colors are white, brown, and silver. Accents are usually metallic for a more futuristic look.

This design is recommended for busy individuals who do not have much time to clean through the nooks and crannies of more complicated kitchens.

· Country

A country kitchen is the dream of a homely chef. A country kitchen is warm and peaceful. Its design is of wood furnishings, simple moldings, and lots of open space. Colors are light and neutral, with floral motifs here and there.

Most furniture and decorations in a country kitchen are made of wood, preferably ones that are hand-made for a more natural look. Accents include knitted or homemade hangings. Most country kitchen walls are covered with intricate floral wallpaper.

· Old World

An Old World kitchen design is reminiscent of pre-17th century Europe with its dark furnishings, brick walls, and tiled floor. Accents are copper or pewter to blend well with the dark and stony theme.

Furniture and decorations in an Old World kitchen are old-fashioned, with much embellishment and elaborate moldings. Wood furnishings are preferably glazed and made to look aged to give off the Old World vibe. If you plan to go all out, replace traditional light bulbs with chandeliers, lamps or scones.

· Rustic

A rustic kitchen is one that is laden with rich colors such as red, orange, and yellow, while exuding a cross between country and contemporary kitchens. Majority of the furnishings are different kinds of wood from the ceiling down to the floor.

Accents for a rustic kitchen are minimal metal embellishments. The floor, walls, and ceiling will look good with light wood paneling, while the cabinets and other furniture are dark.

A rustic kitchen is good for no-nonsense homemakers who crave for style, space, and functionality at the same time.

· Traditional

A traditional kitchen is similar to a contemporary kitchen, but instead of the sharp angles and minimalist design, decorations are fancy and wood furnishings are used more often.

Motifs range from neutral colors or pastel. Accents are granite, stainless steel, marble, or metal. Cabinets and shelves are mostly wood, while floors and walls are either brick or tiles.

Choosing a kitchen design should be made with utmost care because modeling or even buying the materials for one is costly. Find a design that not only fits your personality or goes with the theme or motif of the rest of the house, but one that will also inspire your kitchen endeavors.