1 | Start With Lighting

From brightening your kitchen island, to adding task lighting over your sink—make sure every area of this hardworking space is adequately illuminated.

2 | Have Fun With Hardware

Hardware is like jewelry for your home—it adds a decorative touch. For a cohesive look, match the finish of your hardware to your light fixtures, or mix finishes for a more eclectic vibe. According to Dublin, brass tones add warmth, Oil-Rubbed Bronze gives a sense of precision, and Polished Chrome and Nickel are classic finishes for a streamlined, contemporary look.

3 | Plan your sinks and plumbing

Connecting aesthetics to functionality is essential when it comes to kitchen sinks and plumbing. "It’s important to plan your kitchen plumbing with your specific needs in mind," says Dublin. "Adding details like a large farmhouse-style sink or a pot filler can make your meal prep and cleanup much easier."

4 | Get Organized

The secret to a highly functioning, easy-to-clean kitchen is storage and organization. Shelving, hooks, and other solutions keep high-use items at arm’s reach and ensure everything has a dedicated home. "Organizational pieces that elevate the look of your kitchen are a great way to keep your kitchen essentials within reach," says Dublin.

5 | Consider Adjacent Spaces

To make an open-plan kitchen and dining area feel both connected and distinct, Dublin suggests using lighting from the same collection, but with different finishes—or furniture with the same materials, but different designs. Finally, add an area rug under your dining table to establish an edge between the dining area and the kitchen. Foot traffic is heavy in this part of the home, so Dublin recommends a flatweave that is easy to sweep clean in the kitchen, and a softer, hand-knotted rug under the dining table for a cozier feel. Dublin adds, “Ultimately, trust your instincts—invest in good quality pieces that you love, and that you know will last.”