Modular kitchens are highly organized kitchen layouts that utilize components that are designed and constructed in modules or units. Modular kitchens are a popular trend in modern kitchen design because they are affordable and efficient in space usage. It also takes some of the stress out of planning one of the most important rooms of the house by presenting you with beautiful options for any style.

What are Modular Kitchens?

Modular kitchens are built with pre-made standardized units, or modules. These units come in multiple sizes so that they can be fitted into unique spaces. The key elements of a modular kitchen include cabinets, countertops, appliances, and storage units that are designed to fit together seamlessly. Modular kitchen design is an extremely cost-efficient way to build a kitchen because the units are made in bulk.

What are the Differences Between Modular and Non Modular Kitchens?

There are modular, semi-modular, and custom-built kitchens. First, consider modular kitchens. These use units that are built in the factory and brought finished to the kitchen.

Semi-modular kitchens feature cabinet units built off-site. However, the designs use parts unique to each kitchen.

They have custom-built cabinets made on-site with unique designs.

Modular Kitchen Cabinets

The most common materials used to make modular kitchen cabinets are plywood, engineered wood like MDF and HDF, particleboard, metal, and wood.

The materials have pros and cons. For example, solid wood is long-lasting but expensive. Meanwhile, plywood and MDF are cheaper but less durable.

There are four things to consider when planning a modular kitchen design.

Layout optimization (L-shaped, U-shaped)Appliance placementCabinet materials and styleAdditional accessoriesUnder-cabinet lighting

Modular Kitchen Design Types

There are so many design styles that are possible in modular kitchens. Now, let’s consider modular kitchen design photos. You will see how much variety is possible. Also, you might be inspired to use modular kitchen cabinets to reflect your style.

Contemporary Modular Kitchen

First, from Michael Woodall comes this contemporary kitchen design. The colors of deep gray and white contrast with the warm wood counter on the island. The kitchen uses flat paneled cabinets. Plus, there is no open shelving which minimizes clutter and maximizes storage.

Finally, consider the lighting. The vertical rod pendant lights add task light over the island. You’ll notice recessed lighting above the sink and mood lighting above the cabinets. They bring out the clean simple kitchen style.

Minimalist Modular Kitchen

Next, consider this minimalist-style kitchen in London designed by the Do South Shop. Notice the modular shelves and cabinets. They are adjustable as needed to hold what you have. There is open shelving for accessible tools.

There are closed cabinets for tools and clutter. The light wood color balances the black accents throughout the room. While this design style is edited it’s not spare.

Eclectic Modular Kitchen

This kitchen is from Logan Killen Interiors and uses light gray-blue base cabinets. Although the cabinets are modular, the kitchen feels unique. Design elements include the mirror above the sink and the antique light fixture.

The butcher block countertops and Shaker-style cabinet fronts complement the kitchen’s design.

Mid-Century Modern Modular Kitchen

From Cucine Lube, the kitchen offers a mid-century modern style with a refined wood finish and sleek cabinet doors. Also, the gray walls, ring light fixture, and bar stools highlight the mid-century style. Copper splashes provide a contrast to the dark-toned room.

Rustic Modular Kitchen

Rustic style is not one that you think of as a modular kitchen option. However, DWFI Interiors creates a rustic kitchen using pre-built cabinets. The look is enhanced by the wood-paneled walls and ceiling beams. The brick backsplash and utensil bar above the range add to the kitchen’s practicality and rustic style.

Industrial Style Modular Kitchen

This kitchen features elements of industrial style. This includes exposed metals, spare styling, concrete, and open shelving. The island from Aster fits well, providing counter space and storage. Also, the wood walls with open shelving add warmth and color.

Traditional Modular Kitchen

Consider this traditional-style kitchen design from Rencraft Ltd. The kitchen features two-toned basic cabinets. The design also showcases a deep gray island and soft white on the back wall cabinets for contrast.

The wood tones of the seating and plants add texture to the room. Task lighting over the island works well for reading and prep work. The undermount lighting removes dark corners.

Farmhouse Modular Kitchen

Notice the farmhouse kitchen from devolkitchens. Custom options are mixed with the dark blue cabinets. The open shelves, wooden table, beam ceiling, and stone floor complete the look. Plus, the antique gray-wash wicker chair and brass pendant lights add a unique charm. Finally, to create a similar style, consider using base cabinets. You can also customize the top with or without open shelving.

Modern Rustic Modular Kitchen

From David Giral Photography comes this picture of a modern rustic kitchen. The white and wood-paneled cabinets are simple and clean. Likewise, the chrome and black bar stools and the straight-lined kitchen island extend the modern style.

In addition, the antler light fixture over the island adds a rustic contrast. If you like this style, begin with cabinets that have straight lines. Next, add rustic pieces with leather and wood to accentuate the style.

IKEA Modular Kitchen

The most famous of all Scandinavian kitchen designers is IKEA. The Bodbyn doors shown are painted soft white with a raised panel door. Options for glass fronts with a six-light window are available.

The designer uses black and butcher block counters for different prep surfaces. Next, notice the two-toned gray paneled walls which bring the white and black colors together. IKEA provides free in-store kitchen design advice. Further, they provide in-home consultation for $50.

Small Modular Kitchens

This small kitchen from Arclinea offers a modern design in a historic setting. The small galley kitchen uses two sections of white cabinet units. Although the kitchen is small, it has plenty of storage. In addition to the base cabinets, it has open shelving with a minimal style. Also, the cabinet wall offers more storage space.

Modular Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinets can be included in outdoor areas. These outdoor kitchens can extend your entertainment space. Plus, they add to the enjoyment of your home. However, outdoor cabinets are outside, so you need to consider the weather conditions before choosing your cabinet material.

Experts recommend stainless steel as it is weatherproof and will not rust or warp. Also, consider adding wood elements to the cabinets. Wood adds charm and color. You need to use stain or paint to create a barrier against moisture. Wood will not be as long-lasting as metal.

A cheaper way to add appliances to your outdoor kitchen is to buy a modular outdoor kitchen kit. These kits include a grill, refrigerator, sink, and bar area. One option for this is the Weber Modular Outdoor Kitchen.