One of the greatest benefits of remodeling a kitchen is taking advantage of contemporary improvements. Not to be confused with "modern," contemporary kitchen designs can be minimal or traditional. In either case, the kitchen will boast contemporary conveniences that make the room as efficient as it is attractive.

5 Contemporary Chicago Kitchen Design Ideas

1. Soft, muted tones. White has long been the most popular choice for kitchen cabinetry, serving as the foundation of the color palette. However, many contemporary homes are taking the idea of "light" and translating it into other hues - like soft grays, blues, browns and greens. The result is a kitchen that can be redesigned again and again without having to repaint or refinish anything - while still maintaining a softer, more interesting backdrop.
   
   
2. Optimized storage. There's no doubt about it; optimized storage drawers and cabinets boxes are here to stay. Missing out on this trend means wasting inordinate amounts of potential storage space. That being said, there is no one-size-fits-all storage layout. You should work closely with a professional kitchen designer to determine which storage optimizing features will be solutions, and which would be superfluous, so you install exactly what you need and no more.
   
   
3. Automation. While we might not be quite where the Jetsons were at, automated kitchen features have come a long way. And, while some of them may seem a bit over the top, most make perfect sense in busy households, or in households that tailor their designs for a broad age spectrum. Things like motion-activated lighting designs, touch-free faucets, automated cabinet doors, gadget recharging stations and media centers, as well as smart refrigerators are all welcome additions. While automation is certainly focused on efficiency and function, it also enhances kitchen safety.
   
   
4. Commercial-grade options. Are you a regular chef and/or serial entertainer? If so, this will be one of your favorite Chicago kitchen design ideas. While homeowners are always focused on style, many are turning their attention to commercial-grade appliances and other options that are more durable and longer-lasting than their residential counterparts. These include things like Wolf range tops and ovens, sub-zero refrigerators, hygienic countertop options and even industrial faucets that make it easier to remove stubborn food products from dishes and cookware.
   
   
5. Ditch the Triangle. The kitchen triangle still works for some, but not for all. The convenience of a kitchen island, the various ways people cook - or reheat things - all make it possible for kitchen remodelers to reconsider their old kitchen layout and see if there isn't a more efficient or personalized way to design things. Again, working with a kitchen design-build team increases your ability to take a close look at how your household does things, so you can take a more personalized approach to the kitchen layout and design.

Are you interested in taking advantage of contemporary Chicago kitchen remodeling ideas without sacrificing the essence of your personal design style? Contact Kitchens & Baths Unlimited.