14 Minimalist Kitchens That Will Soothe Your Type-A Soul

Minimalist home décor often gets a bad rap, but there's a difference between a space decorated with restraint and one that simply lacks character. The key to mastering this trend in the kitchen is to experiment with texture and subtle color variations. "If you mix too many textures, materials, and surfaces of all different colors, the result will surely be headache-inducing," Stockholm-based freelance art director and photographer Sara Medina told MyDomaine.

At best, minimalist kitchens are sleek, sophisticated, and refined—at worst, they're cold and look incomplete. Learn how to tread this fine line by referencing interiors that master the trend. Here are 14 lessons we learned from the best.

A monochromatic color palette isn't limited to black and white. This restrained kitchen by San Francisco-based firm Catherine Kwong Design shows matte charcoal adds depth and interest.

Minimalist kitchens often feature natural materials, like marble, that offer unique colors and textures. This stunning space by Elizabeth Roberts Architecture & Design ticks all the boxes.

If your renovated kitchen seems a bit stark and unfinished, consider statement lighting. This sculptural chandelier is illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows.

Conventional designers might seek to fill this blank wall with open shelves and storage, but minimalists know that absence can be beautiful too.

This cool kitchen by design firm BHDM proves that art does belong in the kitchen.

Sleek, pared-back kitchens provide an ideal base to add accessories. A simple glass vase of verdant greenery adds height and visual interest.

The best minimalist kitchens keep countertops and open shelves clutter-free. Choose sculptural bowls and glasses that add interesting shapes to the space such as a bulbous fruit bowl or a speckled ceramic mug.

The best interior designers make decisions based on gut feeling rather than trying to crack a formula for the "perfect" room. This Saint-Sulpice home proves that imbalance and skewed proportions can be beautiful too.

Understated kitchens work well in homes with an open layout, as they don't detract from other rooms. This serene, open-plan kitchen creates a neutral backdrop for the dining area and its statement glass chandelier.

Storage is a must if you want to keep your kitchen tidy. This all-white space offers ample cupboard space so only select colorful cookware is left on display.

Yes, office kitchens can be stylish. The Sydney digs of Australian beauty entrepreneur Eleanor Pendleton shows us how it's done. Opt for quality, well-designed appliances like this Smeg fridge to make a statement, no matter your kitchen size.

Concerned your kitchen will feel small and cramped if you choose dark paint or pendant lights? This kitchen avoids both pitfalls thanks to an abundance of natural light.

Minimalist interior designers question the need for every item, including hardware. Take cues from this blonde wood kitchen and choose cupboards with indentations rather than drawer pulls.

Give your kitchen personality by adding mixed metal details. Catherine Kwong Design chose brass faucets and sconces to balance cool tones.