Interior designers are known for sourcing high-quality furniture and decor across a spectrum of price points, proving that affordable items can achieve a luxurious aesthetic with the right design eye. Among their most frequent recommendations is IKEA, a retailer offering an extensive array of kitchen products at competitive prices. While general favorites have been discussed previously, industry experts have now shared specific items they personally use in their own kitchens to add style and functionality.
Diane Hemmersbaugh, founder of Theo & Co. Design, utilizes simple white dinnerware from the brand at her vacation home. She notes that these basics are suitable for daily meals yet can be elevated with linens and glassware for entertaining. Similarly, Sarah Fontanez of Pomme House praises the Gladelig dinnerware set for its handmade pottery feel and contrasting edges, which she feels adds an organic touch and a sense of expense to every meal. Hemmersbaugh also highlights the Valvardad collection of dishtowels, describing their blue and white patterned linen-cotton blend as classic enough to be displayed in the kitchen when not in use.
For decorative accents, Anu Jain of Atelier Oleana recommends stainless steel bowls for their ability to complement warm wood and veined stone. She appreciates how the clean curves and reflective surfaces catch the light, suggesting they be paired with vintage ceramics to create depth. Jain also favors glass carafes with cork stoppers, using them as vases or drink vessels that add tactile detail to a dining table when mixed with patterned linens.
Addressing the challenge of adding personality to kitchens dominated by fixed elements like cabinetry and appliances, Vicki Taylor of Tailored Spaces suggests using flatwoven rugs. She prefers options with texture and color variations that are easy to clean and can conceal small spills. Lilse McKenna of Lilse McKenna Inc. echoes this sentiment regarding flooring, specifically recommending Lohals jute rugs as a neutral, budget-friendly choice for households with pets or young children.
Storage and furniture solutions also feature prominently in the designers' selections. McKenna describes creating skirted tables by raising Kallax bookshelves on legs, noting that the divided storage serves as a hidden bonus. For seating and utility, Taylor advocates for multi-purpose stools that can function as step ladders, plant stands in sunny areas, or extra living room seating. Finally, Brooke Mennen-Talsma of Brooke MT Interiors outlines a method for creating a custom-looking countertop hutch using SEKTION high cabinets paired with EKOPING glass doors and matching drawer fronts in a brown walnut finish, topped with a custom crown piece to complete the built-in look. McKenna also suggests repurposing jute baskets as wastebaskets, appreciating their material and included liners.
Sources: House Beautiful.