9 Innovative Design Ideas to Steal From a Designer Showcase Kitchen

POPSUGAR Photography | Julia Sperling
POPSUGAR Photography | Julia Sperling

Given how much time is spent in the kitchen gathering to prepare food, catch up, and reconnect, it's not surprising that the design of this highly trafficked space is amongst the most important in the entire house. Homeowners place a special value on a kitchen's every detail, and tips on how to make it both stylish and functional are zealously sought after. All this to say, we anxiously anticipated the unveiling of House Beautiful's 2017 Kitchen of the year by designer Jon De La Cruz of DLC-ID's in the San Francisco Decorator showcase house.

The chic space, dubbed "mise en place" or "everything in its place," by the designer features stunning style, creative storage, and innovative work solutions that create a natural work flow. In fact, the space is full of so many beautifully executed design ideas that rounded up our favorites for our own kitchen inspiration ahead. Prepare to be dazzled by the kitchen of your future dreams.

Double Sinks

Double Sinks

A single sink is so last year! Even an extra-large one isn't as convenient as a pair of mirrored sinks. Having a sink on either side of the counter is perfect for a busy home with kids or just a kitchen with too many cooks in it.

Off-Kilter Tiling

Off-Kilter Tiling

From the flooring to the backsplash, the tiles in this showcase kitchen are laid slightly askew. The unconventional, off-center tiling pattern adds visual interest to the entire room and is a refreshing change from that all-too-familiar subway tile pattern.

Open Shelves In Lieu of a Pantry

Open Shelves In Lieu of a Pantry

No pantry? No problem! Instead of hiding away dried goods and non-perishables in a glorified food closet, this kitchen prominently displays them on rows of open shelving.

Raw Edge Countertop

Raw Edge Countertop

Waterfall countertops may be all the rage on HGTV, but the next big thing in real-life designer homes is raw edges, like the rough finish on this island's stone slab topper.

Decor Mixed With Food

Decor Mixed With Food

Open shelving not only provides easy access to food, it also creates a great opportunity for decor. In this kitchen, one row of shelving is kept free of foods and serving ware and instead filled with framed art and beautiful vases.

Overhead Pots and Pans Storage

Overhead Pots and Pans Storage

Want to save space while simultaneously adding a dramatic focal point to your kitchen? Mount a hanging pots-and-pans rack overhead. This elegant-meets-industrial spiral pattern is as much a work of art as it is storage.

Exposed Dishes

Exposed Dishes

It's not just food that open shelving is good for storing — dishes are great to store there as well. When they're out of the cabinet, they're easier to grab. Plus, they look pretty when nestled between colorful jars of ingredients. The downside of all that exposure, however, is that you have to be more mindful about keeping them organized.

Gray Color Scheme

Gray Color Scheme

White is still the most popular hue for kitchens, but moody gray is coming into style in a big way. Need proof? Just look at the storm cloud backsplash and smoky wood cabinets in this designer space.

Mixed Metals

Mixed Metals

Don't stress about matching your hardware to your appliances. Mixing metals is more than okay; it's on trend. Matte black drawer pulls accented with gold look chic next to a silver oven.