Month: December 2025

Color takes center stage in this bold-yet-approachable kitchen, proving that certain hues have long-term appeal when layered with the right materials and details. Designed with a contemporary–transitional approach, the space embraces a stylish rainforest blue-green cabinetry finish, a minimalist hood, and textured wood combined with mixed metal accents for the perfect balance of personality and staying power.

“Sometimes people are torn between blue or green, and the color we used in this kitchen really hits the mark for both,” Normandy Designer Jackie Jensen says. “Vertical wood slats at the sink wall and island are a rift cut white oak wood species that brings out beautiful color variations in stains — some wood slats are warmer and some pull more gray which pairs beautifully with the rainforest finish. Each wall incorporates some element of wood, ensuring the rich paint color never feels overpowering.”

The custom drywall hood, with a subtle wood trim, anchors the range wall, and provides unique shelving on either end. The hood is finished to blend seamlessly into the surrounding walls rather than competing for attention.

“Many homeowners are prioritizing concealed appliances, and a drywall hood is a great way to do that — it lets other design details shine,” Jackie says. Paneled appliances, such as the refrigerator, blend with surrounding cabinetry and reinforce this aesthetic, allowing the cabinetry color to take the spotlight while creating a fluid geometric presence.

Above the spacious low-divide sink, matte-black metal shelves replace upper cabinets and offer more bold shapes, creating layered contrast in front of the oak slat paneling. Without a window above the sink, this combination adds visual interest while keeping the space light and open. Quartz countertops and full-height backsplash with soft veining further balance the space with a calm, neutral surface.

This confident use of color is paired with mixed styles throughout the design that keep the space current. Classic shaker cabinetry in the kitchen is mixed with sleek slab-front doors at the beverage center — a modern take on inset cabinets, which typically leans more traditional — creating visual interest without overwhelming the space.

The beverage center also offers a moment to introduce shine, with a glass tile backsplash that distinguishes the area from the main kitchen, while still tying into the overall palette. A beverage refrigerator and concealed bar pullout keep bottles tucked away when not entertaining.

Creatively combining color, wood, neutral tones and metal finishes, including brushed bronze, stainless steel, matte black, and warm ash gray, makes this kitchen feel cohesive. “They all work together,” Jackie says. “Each area of the kitchen feels special, but everything still blends beautifully.”

This colorful and eclectic kitchen design is just one of many you’ll find at the new Normandy Remodeling Design Studio in Hinsdale at 222 E Ogden Avenue. You’re invited to find more inspiration as we celebrate our Grand Opening on February 28, 2026. Stop by for the party, or any time Monday through Friday between 9AM and 5PM to take a look around.  You can also find ideas for your upcoming addition, new kitchen, or major renovation on Instagram and Pinterest, or on any of your favorite social media platforms.