The Invisible Kitchen Trend Is Taking Over—Here’s How to Try It at Home

Not everyone wants a minimalist home, but if you lean towards understated styles, you’ll most likely be a fan of a new kitchen trend that’s cropping up this year—the “invisible” kitchen. It’s not magic that makes this look, but rather a series of clever design tricks.

We had a pro break down exactly what the invisible kitchen trend is, and tips for achieving a similar look in your space—even without renovating.

What Is an Invisible Kitchen?

Invisible kitchens aren’t covered in invisibility cloaks or impossible to spot, but they’re better blended into their surroundings.

“An invisible kitchen is a space that perfectly blends in with the interior, so it doesn’t stand out and you could almost miss it,” explains Fisun.

Essentially, these rooms pare back features, appliances, and details that stick out—usually things you don’t love the look of. They camouflage a range hood or hide a plethora of cooking appliances with cabinets that meld into your backsplash or wall color.

In a way, it’s another interpretation of minimalism within your cooking space. However, “invisible” or “hidden” kitchens don’t necessarily have to be bright white or neutral in color. You can select any shade and even feature a pop of color or statement item.

The main objective is obscuring clutter and the parts of a kitchen that aren’t as aesthetically pleasing. It’s all about blending the space together in a way that feels seamless.

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Key Elements of an Invisible Kitchen

There’s no wrong way to do an invisible kitchen, but there are some features that will pull it off better than others.

Great Storage

The first step in creating a concealed kitchen is organizing your cooking space and removing anything that makes your countertops, islands, and other surfaces stand out. This could be appliances like a toaster or blender, or dinnerware and mugs, and they should be stored away.

“Really good storage is essential,” Fisun says. “I work with my clients to find out everything they have and make sure that in the new kitchen design, it is effortlessly accessible; otherwise, things are not going to be cleared away after use.”

Subtle Hardware

You may have cabinets and walls in matching colors, but if they still feel a little too obvious, this could come down to something as simple as the pulls and handles you’ve selected. If these stick out, so will the rest of the space.

“Opt for handles that are more furniture-like or hidden handles,” Fisun suggests. “Or floor runners—there are so many tricks to make a kitchen more integrated into the overall space.”

Natural or Blended Finishes

Finishes and materials play a big part in how an invisible kitchen comes together, too. Anything that’s too flashy can downplay the idea that your cooking space is blending into its surroundings.

“I opt for natural materials as opposed to shiny lacquered kitchen cupboards, unless we are using these colors and high gloss lacquer around the home,” says Fisun.

She also points out the importance of choosing the right backsplash. A bright, statement one might be beautiful, but it won’t meld into the rest of the space which is essential if you want that “invisible” aesthetic.

The Right Space

A final point is knowing what spaces best cater to this style of kitchen. While you can really do it for any cooking space, Fisun notes that an “invisible” kitchen is a great option for homes and apartments that have less square footage or open-plan layouts.

How to Pull Off the Look Without Major Renos

If you like the look of an invisible kitchen but aren’t up for a full renovation, there are a few changes you can make that result in a similar look.

• Repaint your cabinets. Coat your upper and lower cabinets in a color that matches your walls and backsplashes. This alone helps conceal larger features.
• Clear your countertops. Clutter exposes your kitchen and gives it more dimension. The less you have on your counters, the more “invisible” the space will feel.
• Change the handles and hardware. Swap out pulls and knobs for options that are the same color as your cabinets and drawers. This is quick change that provides a sleek and blended look.
• Add more storage units. If necessary, bring in extra storage hutches, rolling islands, or cabinets that are the same color as the rest of your space to hide away appliances, pantry items, and other kitchen necessities.
• Obscure one or two appliances. For instance, find a cover or paint your metal range hood in the same shade as your walls. Or build an appliance garage that’s the same color as your other cabinets.