Courtney Warren is a Texas-based interior designer whose work has been featured in Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, and Today.com. She is a frequent consultant on Fox 4 TV’s Good Day program in Dallas, was ranked in the top 3 percent of interior designers in the US by Houzz.com, and starred in the Dallas episode of TLC’sFour Houses. She delights in helping overwhelmed clients create beautiful spaces—and will never turn down a warm chocolate chip cookie or Diet Dr Pepper.

I'm Courtney Waren

Shop the projects

My Go-To design accessories

Timeless Kitchen Countertop Styling in 5 Simple Steps

Are you tired of staring at the same old drab kitchen countertops and uninspiring, unstyled cabinets?

Fear not, because I’ve got some fantastic tips to help you jazz up your culinary space and style your cabinets without breaking a sweat.

Let’s dive into the world of kitchen styling and make cooking feel like a gourmet adventure every day!

Keep in Simple in the Kitchen

Kitchen counter styling has always been a way to express our personal taste and enhance the overall ambiance of the kitchen.

From sleek and modern designs to warm and inviting aesthetics, there are countless possibilities.

Embracing Minimalism

The trend of minimalism continues to shape kitchen counter styling.

Clean lines, uncluttered surfaces, and a focus on functionality take center stage.

By embracing minimalism, you create a space that feels open, airy, and effortlessly chic.

ACTION STEP: Clear the clutter off the cabinets!

Soothing Neutrals

Neutral color palettes are another timeless trend for kitchen counters.

Shades like whites, creams, grays, and soft earth tones create a serene and calming atmosphere.

These colors provide a versatile backdrop, allowing you to experiment with different accent pieces and easily update your kitchen’s look in the future.

Mixing Materials

Mixing materials adds depth and visual interest to kitchen counter styling.

Combining elements like wood, metal, stone, and glass creates a captivating juxtaposition that elevates the overall design.

For example, pairing sleek stainless steel appliances with warm wooden countertops can create a modern yet inviting atmosphere.

ACTION STEP: Don’t be afraid to mix metals of differing colors, woods of different tones, etc.

Bold Accents

While minimalism remains popular, incorporating bold accents into your kitchen counter styling can add a touch of personality and vibrancy.

Consider introducing pops of color through decorative items, such as vibrant kitchen utensils, stylish appliances, or eye-catching artwork.

These accents can be easily changed over time to keep your kitchen fresh and up-to-date.

ACTION STEP: Splurge on a Wow-factor item!

Customization and Functionality

In 2024, customization and functionality go hand in hand with kitchen counter styling.

Tailoring your countertop space to suit your unique needs is essential. Incorporate clever storage solutions, such as concealed cabinets or open shelving, to keep your essentials within reach while maintaining a tidy aesthetic.

It’s all about creating a space that works for you. How can you customize your kitchen counter area to optimize functionality?