How to Design a Modern Minimalist Kitchen

There’s something refreshing about the idea of clean counters, sleek cabinets, and no clutter in sight. That’s the magic of a modern minimalist kitchen. This interior design style is a way to breathe easier in your own home.

Modern minimalism is about trading in the chaos for calm. And if you’re curious about how to create a minimalist kitchen that still feels warm and livable, we’ve got you. This guide breaks down the basics of modern minimalism to help you design your dream kitchen remodel.

 

What Is a Modern Minimalist Kitchen?

Modern minimalism comprises of these basic elements: clean lines, neutral tones, and everything has a purpose. A modern minimalist kitchen is all about stripping away the excess to highlight function and form. It’s not that it lacks personality; you’re giving your space room to breathe.

It usually involves:

• Flat-front cabinets with hidden handles (or none at all)
• Neutral colors—think white, taupe, soft gray, or even bold black for added drama
• Streamlined appliances that blend in rather than stand out
• Open countertops with only the essentials in sight

Minimalist = intentional. And the great thing is that it works in just about any size space.

 

How to Design a Minimalist Kitchen: Step-by-Step

1. Start with a Clean Slate

Before you think about buying anything, take inventory of what you already have. Do you actually use that juicer? What about the second toaster? A good minimalist kitchen begins with editing. Keep only what you love and use.

Pro tip: Store non-daily essentials in a pantry or behind closed cabinet doors. Out of sight, out of clutter.

2. Choose the Right Layout for Your Space

Do you have a small kitchen? You’re in luck—minimalism thrives in small spaces. Galley kitchens and L-shaped layouts are great for tight areas. For open-concept homes, a large island can serve as both prep space and a social hub.

Bray & Scarff’s kitchen design experts can help you figure out what layout works best and which layout doesn’t make you walk a mile between the fridge and the sink.

3. Minimalist Kitchen Cabinets Matter More Than You Think

Flat-panel doors (like the ones from Mantra or Omega) are staples of minimalist kitchen design. Go handle-less for a super sleek look, or try integrated pulls for subtle style. For colors, white is timeless, but don’t sleep on matte black or soft mushroom tones.

Explore Bray & Scarff’s wide selection of minimalist kitchen cabinets to find the style that fits your vision.

4. Stick to a Streamlined Palette

Modern minimalist kitchens often follow the “three-color rule”: one dominant color, one secondary, and one accent. White, black, and natural wood is a favorite combo—but so is soft beige paired with a hint of olive or muted navy.

Not sure what works together? Bray & Scarff’s free virtual kitchen design tool lets you test combos in real time, from cabinet colors to countertops and backsplashes.

5. Go for Integrated, Panel-Ready Appliances

Minimalist doesn’t mean missing out on top-tier performance. It just means your appliances don’t shout for attention. Stylish dish drawers and built-in refrigerators from brands like Monogram, Thermador, and Sub-Zero blend in like part of the cabinetry.

Think of it as kitchen camouflage with powerful cooking cred behind the scenes.

 

Kitchen Trends for 2025 That Work With Minimalism

Minimalist kitchens don’t mean ignoring trends—it just means choosing ones that won’t look dated in two years. These current 2025 favorites are low-key enough to blend in beautifully:

• Textured natural stone countertops (hello, Agatha Black granite)
• Matte finishes on everything, from faucets to cabinetry
• LED under-cabinet lighting for soft, seamless glow
• Open shelving, used sparingly for everyday dishes or a few statement pieces
• Concealed storage zones (bonus points for built-in charging drawers)

Product Recommendations for a Minimalist Look

These Bray & Scarff favorites are a perfect match for the modern minimalist kitchen:

Thermador Masterpiece® Series Double Wall Oven (Model: ME302WS)
Sleek, flush-mount design with intuitive touch controls. Stylish and smart.

Monogram Integrated Panel-Ready Refrigerator (Model: ZIP364NBVII)
A fridge that disappears and is fully integrated into your cabinets.

Schrock Cabinetry in ‘Cloud on Maple’
A soft, neutral tone with clean lines, perfect for any minimalist palette.

Cambria Quartz Countertops in ‘Smithfield’
A warm white quartz with subtle veining pairs with almost anything.

› Explore more kitchen appliances and minimalist kitchen essentials from Bray & Scarff.

How to Make a Minimalist Kitchen Feel Cozy

Here’s the truth: minimalism can feel cold if you’re not careful. Want to avoid that showroom vibe?

Try this:

• Add warm wood accents (a butcher block tray, bar stools, or even open shelving)
• Use soft lighting—under-cabinet LEDs or pendant lights with a glow
• Include textured items like linen hand towels or a woven fruit bowl
• Bring in greenery—herbs, a small plant, or even a vase of eucalyptus

Need more inspiration? Check out a photo gallery of Bray & Scarff’s completed kitchen design projects.

 

Ready to Start Designing?

Designing a modern minimalist kitchen is about curating a space that makes your day-to-day life simpler, more beautiful, and way less chaotic. At Bray & Scarff, we’re here to help you do just that—with thoughtful design, quality products, and real people who know kitchens inside and out.

When you're ready to take the next step, Bray & Scarff’s kitchen remodeling experts are just a click away. Contact us online, visit one of our local kitchen remodelers, or schedule a free design consultation to make your modern minimalist vision come to life.

Start your kitchen remodel with Bray & Scarff!

Related Readings:

• 6 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Kitchen
• Granite & Why It's Imperative You Pick Your Slab
• How to Select Countertop Edge Profiles

 

FAQ: Modern Minimalist Kitchens

1. How do you soften up a modern kitchen?
Add warmth with natural textures like wood or linen, use soft lighting (like under-cabinet LEDs), and include a few personal touches—think open shelving with pottery or a vase of fresh herbs.

2. How can I make my modern kitchen more traditional?
Blend in traditional elements like shaker-style cabinet doors, antique-inspired hardware, or a farmhouse sink. Pair modern appliances with warmer tones or a classic backsplash to balance the two styles.

3. What is the modern look for kitchen cabinets?
Modern kitchen cabinets typically feature flat fronts, minimal or hidden hardware, and a streamlined silhouette. Popular finishes include matte white, black, or wood-grain tones for that sleek, uncluttered vibe.

4. How do you light a modern kitchen?
Layer your lighting. Start with recessed ceiling lights, then add task lighting like under-cabinet strips and pendant lights over islands. Choose fixtures with clean lines and warm, diffused bulbs for a cozy glow.

5. How do you make a modern kitchen look vintage?
Incorporate vintage-style lighting, retro appliances, or a checkered tile floor. You can also mix in classic details like brass hardware or a painted hutch to give a nod to the past without losing that modern edge.