skip to main content
Photos
Photos
Advice
Stories From Houzz
Houzz Discussions
Houzz Research
Sign In
Houzz Logo Print
  1. Kitchen
  2. Layout: U-shape

Contemporary U-shaped Kitchen Ideas and Designs

All Filters (2)
Refine by:
21 - 40 of 77,623 photos
Contemporary
Layout: U-shape
clear all
Bright Plywood Kitchen
Bright Plywood Kitchen
Sustainable KitchensSustainable Kitchens
Photo of a medium sized contemporary u-shaped kitchen/diner in Other with no island.
Colourful Kitchen Project Tivoli
Colourful Kitchen Project Tivoli
ContourContour
The U-shape kitchen in Fenix, Midnight Blue, and Synthia, Limes Oak enabled the client to retain a dining table and entertaining space. A purposefully placed parapet discreetly conceals the kitchen's working area and hob when approaching from the hallway. The Vero cabinet's soft lighting and the play on heights are a modern interpretation of a traditional dresser, creating an ambience and space for a choice of personalised ornaments. Additionally, the midi cabinet provided additional storage. The result was a playfully bright kitchen in the daylight and an atmospherically enticing kitchen at night.
Hither Green Kitchen
Hither Green Kitchen
piqupiqu
We love the clean and crisp lines of this beautiful German manufactured kitchen in Hither Green. The inclusion of the peninsular island which houses the Siemens induction hob, creates much needed additional work top space and is a lovely sociable way to cook and entertain. The completely floor to ceiling cabinets, not only look stunning but maximise the storage space available. The combination of the warm oak Nebraska doors, wooden floor and yellow glass splash back compliment the matt white lacquer doors perfectly and bring a lovely warmth to this open plan kitchen space.
Pale and Interesting by Mowlem & Co
Pale and Interesting by Mowlem & Co
Mowlem & CoMowlem & Co
The Scandi influence remains strong in interior design and often means choosing paler colour palettes and blonde, raw or lightly stained woods. As bespoke specialists we can create everything from pure, hand painted or gloss white kitchens to subtle tone-on-tone effects… and in any material desired.
Hotham Road, Putney
Hotham Road, Putney
Interior Design Concepts ltdInterior Design Concepts ltd
A book-matched matt Tineo wood veneer with smooth ‘opaque’ white lacquer kitchen doors.
Design ideas for a medium sized contemporary u-shaped open plan kitchen in London with stainless steel appliances, an island, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, grey floors and white worktops.
A colourful London flat - All For Romeo project
A colourful London flat - All For Romeo project
Mon Concept Habitation - LondonMon Concept Habitation - London
The kitchen is appreciated for its fresh, bright look, achieved with olive-green cupboard fronts that contrast with the white marble effect worktops and splashback. The adjacent dining area is airy yet ultra-cosy. The empty space above the existing boiler has been used to install an adjustable shelf system that serves as Romeo's playground.
Light and airy modern kitchen
Light and airy modern kitchen
House by MiaHouse by Mia
Design ideas for a contemporary u-shaped kitchen/diner in London with a submerged sink, flat-panel cabinets, grey cabinets, concrete worktops, grey splashback, integrated appliances, concrete flooring, a breakfast bar, grey floors and grey worktops.
Angel
Angel
Images Of Interiors // PhotographyImages Of Interiors // Photography
This is an example of a contemporary u-shaped kitchen in London with a submerged sink, flat-panel cabinets, grey splashback and white worktops.
Kitchen Upgrade
Kitchen Upgrade
Sienna InteriorsSienna Interiors
Photo of a contemporary u-shaped kitchen in Glasgow with a built-in sink, flat-panel cabinets, green cabinets, white splashback, stone slab splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood flooring, no island, brown floors and white worktops.
Modern Blac Noir: Full House Renovation with Sleek Accents
Modern Blac Noir: Full House Renovation with Sleek Accents
Boss Design CenterBoss Design Center
Welcome to this captivating house renovation, a harmonious fusion of natural allure and modern aesthetics. The kitchen welcomes you with its elegant combination of bamboo and black cabinets, where organic textures meet sleek sophistication. The centerpiece of the living area is a dramatic full-size black porcelain slab fireplace, exuding contemporary flair and making a bold statement. Ascend the floating stair, accented with a sleek glass handrail, and experience a seamless transition between floors, elevating the sense of open space and modern design. As you explore further, you'll discover three modern bathrooms, each featuring similar design elements with bamboo and black accents, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout the home. Embrace the essence of this remarkable renovation, where nature-inspired materials and sleek finishes harmonize to create a stylish and inviting living space.
Hancock Park Modern Organic Renovation
Hancock Park Modern Organic Renovation
SHAPESIDESHAPESIDE
Contemporary kitchen, concrete floors with light wood cabinetry accents with bold black and white tile backsplash. Kitchen island features seating on two sides.
Philadelphia Blue & White Kitchen
Philadelphia Blue & White Kitchen
Kitchen MagicKitchen Magic
Residing in Philadelphia, it only seemed natural for a blue and white color scheme. The combination of Satin White and Colonial Blue creates instant drama in this refaced kitchen. Cambria countertop in Weybourne, include a waterfall side on the peninsula that elevate the design. An elegant backslash in a taupe ceramic adds a subtle backdrop. Photography: Christian Giannelli www.christiangiannelli.com/
East Hampton 5
East Hampton 5
Kevin O'Sullivan + AssociatesKevin O'Sullivan + Associates
Inspiration for a contemporary u-shaped open plan kitchen in New York with a submerged sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, marble worktops, multi-coloured splashback, marble splashback, integrated appliances, medium hardwood flooring, an island, brown floors and multicoloured worktops.
Contemporary, clean, warm kitchen
Contemporary, clean, warm kitchen
Kristin Lam InteriorsKristin Lam Interiors
Clean, contemporary white oak slab cabinets with a white Chroma Crystal White countertop. Cabinets are set off with sleek stainless steel handles. The appliances are also stainless steel. The diswasher is Bosch, the refridgerator is a Kenmore professional built-in, stainless steel. The hood is stainless and glass from Futuro, Venice model. The double oven is stainless steel from LG. The stainless wine cooler is Uline. the stainless steel built-in microwave is form GE. The irridescent glass back splash that sets off the floating bar cabinet and surrounds window is Vihara Irridescent 1 x 4 glass in Puka. Perfect for entertaining. The floors are Italian ceramic planks that look like hardwood in a driftwood color. Simply gorgeous. Lighting is recessed and kept to a minimum to maintain the crisp clean look the client was striving for. I added a pop of orange and turquoise (not seen in the photos) for pillows on a bench as well as on the accessories. Cabinet fabricator, Mark Klindt ~ www.creativewoodworks.info
Hillsboro Kitchen Remodel
Hillsboro Kitchen Remodel
Adapt Interior DesignAdapt Interior Design
Engage Photo & Video
Photo of a medium sized contemporary u-shaped open plan kitchen in Portland with a submerged sink, recessed-panel cabinets, medium wood cabinets, granite worktops, beige splashback, glass tiled splashback, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood flooring and an island.
White and Warm
White and Warm
Design First InteriorsDesign First Interiors
This formerly small and cramped kitchen switched roles with the extra large eating area resulting in a dramatic transformation that takes advantage of the nice view of the backyard. The small kitchen window was changed to a new patio door to the terrace and the rest of the space was “sculpted” to suit the new layout. A Classic U-shaped kitchen layout with the sink facing the window was the best of many possible combinations. The primary components were treated as “elements” which combine for a very elegant but warm design. The fridge column, custom hood and the expansive backsplash tile in a fabric pattern, combine for an impressive focal point. The stainless oven tower is flanked by open shelves and surrounded by a pantry “bridge”; the eating bar and drywall enclosure in the breakfast room repeat this “bridge” shape. The walnut island cabinets combine with a walnut butchers block and are mounted on a pedestal for a lighter, less voluminous feeling. The TV niche & corkboard are a unique blend of old and new technologies for staying in touch, from push pins to I-pad. The light walnut limestone floor complements the cabinet and countertop colors and the two ceiling designs tie the whole space together.
Beautiful Boho Kitchen Remodel
Beautiful Boho Kitchen Remodel
Inspired Spaces, Inc.Inspired Spaces, Inc.
Photo of a contemporary u-shaped kitchen in San Francisco with flat-panel cabinets, light wood cabinets, engineered stone countertops, white splashback, metro tiled splashback, light hardwood flooring, an island and white worktops.
Фото реализованного интерьера квартиры в г.Сестрорецк
Фото реализованного интерьера квартиры в г.Сестрорецк
Студия дизайна и ремонта Полины ВольговичСтудия дизайна и ремонта Полины Вольгович
Photo of a contemporary u-shaped open plan kitchen in Saint Petersburg with a submerged sink, medium hardwood flooring, no island, brown floors and white worktops.
Студия 38м2 в стиле лофт для сдачи в аренду
Студия 38м2 в стиле лофт для сдачи в аренду
Бриц Анна \ Brits.designБриц Анна \ Brits.design
Design ideas for a small contemporary u-shaped open plan kitchen in Moscow with a built-in sink, recessed-panel cabinets, white cabinets, wood worktops, white splashback, white appliances, a breakfast bar, brown worktops and multi-coloured floors.
Award-Winning Modern Condo Remodel
Award-Winning Modern Condo Remodel
The Renowned GroupThe Renowned Group
Design ideas for a medium sized contemporary u-shaped kitchen pantry in Dallas with flat-panel cabinets, grey cabinets, engineered stone countertops, dark hardwood flooring, no island, black floors and white worktops.

Contemporary U-shaped Kitchen Ideas and Designs

Want to discover beautiful contemporary kitchen ideas to inspire your new kitchen design? You’ve come to the right place. You can discover millions of contemporary kitchen designs and ideas; from kitchen islands and storage units, to all sorts of kitchen lighting ideas, such as pendant lighting or under cabinet lighting. Whether you want inspiration for all-in-one fitted kitchen designs, some small kitchen ideas or maybe just some tips for improving your kitchen decor, there are tons of contemporary photos to inspire you for your next kitchen project on Houzz.

What kind of contemporary kitchen design should I go for?

With so many kitchen ideas and photos to look at you might be a bit overwhelmed when it comes to picking your own contemporary kitchen design. If you are updating your kitchen you know what a big and important decision it is to get the design right – the kitchen can be the hub and heart of the home, and it’s unlikely that you would invest in renovating your kitchen again in a few years. But fear not, focusing first on the important elements like layout, cabinet style, worktops and appliances will help you to bring together your dream kitchen design. Additional elements like kitchen lighting, cupboard storage and decor can come after in the kitchen planning process. A kitchen designer or fitter can help you to decide the layout of your contemporary kitchen in terms of where to place your kitchen units, appliances and island (if you’re having one), but if you prefer to handle this yourself you can focus on where you want your key elements of your kitchen to be – the oven, hob, sink and fridge. Of course you might be constricted by space, but try to envisage the easiest and most efficient layout based on how you usually like to cook and prepare your food. If you’re fed up of always having to carry dirty pans and pots across the room to the sink, place the sink closer to your oven and hob. Once you have the core elements sorted, consider extra layout considerations, such as where your bins will be stored, where the cutlery draw should be and where small contemporary kitchen appliances can be installed.

Should I include a kitchen island?

Kitchen island ideas are abundant these days; it seems most kitchen designs include a kitchen island, if not multiple islands. However, if the layout doesn’t work, especially if you have a small kitchen, then there’s no necessity to add in a kitchen island. You can add a breakfast bar or counter to your existing kitchen units, or stick with a good old-fashioned dining table if you don’t need the extra work surfaces. That said, if you do have the room, take a look at some contemporary kitchen island ideas to see if the designs inspire you for your kitchen. There are a huge variety of island designs to cater to different needs – you can have sinks, ovens, hobs, wine storage and all sorts of drawers and organisers built-in, you can have separate bars and counters that extend from your island, or you could go for a kitchen island on wheels to make your kitchen layout more versatile.

How do I choose my kitchen units and cabinets?

When picking out kitchen units and cupboard styles for a fitted kitchen, you’ll first want to consider the more practical questions – how many units do you need? How many cupboards and drawers do you need? Do you need extra kitchen storage built into your units? It’s always best to overestimate how much kitchen storage you’ll need as we all tend to have a habit of filling up whatever current space we have to the maximum. Next you can consider kitchen cabinet style and colour. Shaker style cabinets and raised and recessed panel cabinets offer a more traditional kitchen cabinet look, while flat panel cabinet doors tend to lend more to the modern and contemporary style. However, going for raised or recessed panel work in a striking colour such as dark blue, green or black can still work with contemporary kitchen ideas. White kitchens can give a sleek and clean feel, but remember you may have to do a bit more cleaning of those cupboard doors if you want everything to stay shiny and fresh. Of course, grey kitchens are the neutral colour choice du jour and can be paired with pale and rich shades alike if you want your fitted kitchen cupboards to contrast with your worktop, splashback, floor, or all of the above. Exposed shelving and storage is also popular for eclectic, Scandi and industrial-inspired looks, so you could opt for glass-fronted cabinets or no wall-mounted cabinets at all. Remember that this will require more restraint in what you can store and more effort in keeping it looking presentable compared to what is stored away hastily behind cupboard doors. The kitchen cupboard handles are also another element to decide upon – do you want traditional round knobs, modern metal bars, country kitchen cup handles or maybe to go ultra sleek with a completely handleless kitchen?

What contemporary kitchen storage ideas should I consider?

If you want to keep your contemporary kitchen well-stocked and well-equipped but don’t want it spilling over with clutter, then you’ll need to rely on good kitchen storage. Apart from the usual fitted kitchen cupboards and drawer space, there are many other ways of keeping your kitchen tidy. Whilst a large kitchen pantry is the dream of most homeowners, it can’t always be a reality. However, there are now lots of pull out compartments and drawers with trays and shelving that can act as mini kitchen pantries, and you can install handy cupboard organisers that fit onto the inside of the door to make the most of your cupboard space. You can also look at corner drawers and cupboards that open up to reveal lots of extra storage. Rails or small shelves along your kitchen walls or splashback can help with hanging utensils or pans, or storing small items like herbs and spices in an usually empty space. Buy extra kitchen storage products for your home on Houzz

Are there small kitchen ideas for small contemporary spaces?

If you’re working with a galley kitchen, a one-wall kitchen in an open plan space or just a pretty small kitchen, there are some small kitchen ideas that can help you get the most out of your cooking and dining area. If you find that you don’t utilise the back of your cupboards (maybe they become the graveyard for out-of-date tin cans), you could decide to go with shallower kitchen units to free up some extra floor space in front of your cabinets. As mentioned, open shelving or glass-fronted cabinets are a popular trend and they should make the space feel more open and less boxed-in. However, if you have the capacity for it, cupboards and contemporary kitchen units that maximise the floor-to-ceiling space you have will mean you can use all of that for valuable kitchen storage. Wall or ceiling racks could be a useful solution for hanging pans and pots if you’ve run out of cupboards in which to store them. Kitchen ideas and contemporary accessories such as baskets, trolleys and storage jars are both aesthetically pleasing and practical as they give you extra storage space. Kitchen appliances like a fridge or dishwasher can be tucked away in built-in units in fitted kitchens so they blend into your layout and don’t make the space look crowded. Discover all the small kitchen ideas you could need by taking a look at photos of compact kitchens.

What sort of contemporary kitchen lighting should I go for?

In the kitchen you need to have practical lighting – no one wants to chop, cut and cook in a dingy room. Kitchen ceiling lights are probably the best way to go, but should you opt for recessed spotlights or traditional hanging ceiling lights? While spotlight LED kitchen lighting will give you excellent light, they may not fit with a design that’s not contemporary. Traditional chandelier lights could work for other kitchen styles, and of course, kitchen pendant lighting comes in all sorts of styles, colours and designs. While the popular choice is to go with one or two pendant lights over your kitchen island, you could also opt for a single pendant light over your dining space, or a few spaced out across your kitchen. Of course, if you want good lighting for your worktops, under-cabinet lighting is the way forward. Speak to your kitchen supplier about having this pre-installed, or there are a number of easy-install options you can fit yourself or with the help of a lighting expert or electrician. In the market for your contemporary kitchen lighting today? Once you’ve found some inspiring kitchen lighting ideas here, take a look at our kitchen lighting products to find the new lights for your kitchen project.

Check out these popular kitchen pages below:

2
123456789Next Page
United Kingdom
Tailor my experience with cookies

Houzz uses cookies and similar technologies to personalise my experience, serve me relevant content, and improve Houzz products and services. By clicking ‘Accept’ I agree to this, as further described in the Houzz Cookie Policy. I can reject non-essential cookies by clicking ‘Manage Preferences’.