How to achieve subtle symmetry in modern kitchen design?

How-to-achieve-subtle-symmetry-in-modern-kitchen-design-

Looking for a simple way to create an aesthetically pleasing kitchen? Forget high-tech gadgets and super-swish design; sometimes all you need is subtle symmetry. Symmetry is often a highly desirable quality in design but with kitchen design it can be a little tricky. Not every kitchen is perfectly sized and shaped, which can make adding symmetrical features such as cabinets, appliances or islands very difficult without sacrificing space. But with top tips from the experts here at Kitchen Design Centre, you can have a symmetrical modern kitchen design in no time…

Why do we love symmetry?

Symmetrical design cues affect our subconscious, even when they are almost too subtle to be noticed. Our natural instinct draws us towards balance and symmetry, as they create a feel of harmony and stability. In fact, as far back as in ancient Rome, Vitruvius, in addition to his city grids, described the perfect home as having two identical wings divided by a garden. This look was implemented in Renaissance palaces, most of them with same size wings revolving around a circle or rectangle. In time this same symmetrical look became familiar in public buildings and upscale private homes, and now in interior design.

How-to-achieve-subtle-symmetry-in-modern-kitchen-design-kitchen

Creating symmetry in your kitchen

When designing a symmetrical interior it’s important to consider how you are going to achieve the look. There are a number of ways you can achieve symmetry including:

Reflection: The most common type, for example two chairs that are divided by a table.

Rotational: Objects rotated in a particular direction around a central focal point, for example a round dining room table.

Transitional: Creating the illusion of motion by repeating the same pattern multiple times within the same space, for example with kitchen tiles.

You can also reinforce the symmetrical design of your kitchen by throwing in a bit of asymmetry. This is achieved by purposefully breaking an established pattern of symmetry in order to draw attention to a particular design element, for example a kitchen island.

How to achieve subtle symmetry-in-modern kitchen design example

Simple ways to achieve symmetry include:

  • Balanced lighting – Use evenly place fixtures or a large central fixture, and balance lighting from windows with brightening features on the other side – for example a mirror.
  • Matching cabinet layout – Mirror the layout of cabinets on the opposite side of the room, or on the opposite side of a focal point such as an oven.
  • Seating – Opt for even numbers where possible and when you’ve got the option for seating on two sides, at a table, make sure the number of chairs on each side match. Bench or stool seating can also help to balance out a space.
  • Accessories – In the places your kitchen is lacking symmetry think about using accessories to bring the lagging side up to scratch. Artwork, or hanging pots and pans are just a few options you might use to create a balanced look.

For more inspiration browse our latest customer kitchen designs here. You can also visit us at one of our kitchen showrooms and take tips from our kitchen experts’ designs.

How have you implemented symmetry in your kitchen? Tell us in the comments below or tweet us @ModernKitchens

Follow us on Instagram

TRADITION MEETS MODERNITY IN OUR LIVERPOOL SHOWROOM

In our Liverpool showroom, we’ve masterfully blended the best of traditional and modern design elements to create a unique, timeless kitchen display. This space is a perfect mix of classic elegance with contemporary functionality, and the focal point is the stunning L-shaped island, which serves as both a practical workspace and a social hub. Its clever design seamlessly links into a media wall and presentation area, incorporating the essence of modern open-plan living. 

The colour scheme is a sophisticated mix of Concept130 Roma Graphite shaker cabinets paired with Montreal light fine oak handleless units and taupe trim handles. This combination offers a perfect balance between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, perfect if you appreciate the classics but want something a little more updated.

Standout appliances:
Neff 30cm Wine Fridge
Neff 80cm Induction Hob
Neff Single Oven
Neff Tall Integrated Fridge
Neff Dishwasher
MODERN MINIMALISM AT ITS FINEST IN OUR URMSTON SHOWROOM

Our Urmston showroom display showcases a bold, modern kitchen design that effortlessly blends both form and function. The handleless units create a streamlined, uninterrupted flow throughout the space, perfectly complemented by the ultra-matt black finish on the worktops. This pairs beautifully with the elegant black ribbed-veneered door for the focal wall. 

This minimalist design approach offers a chic, contemporary vibe, ideal if you love the clean, clutter-free aesthetic. To enhance this look, we’ve used warm accent colours that break up the monochrome palette, adding a sense of inviting depth and warmth to the overall space. The subtle, extravagant marble panels add a touch of quiet luxury, their natural veining providing visual interest and texture against the sleek black surfaces, especially when lit by warm LED lighting. This fusion of modern materials and timeless elements, such as marble, creates a display that is both stylish and practical!

Standout appliances:
Neff N90 Ovens with premium 6.8” touch screen display and Twist Pad Flex control
Neff Flex Induction Hob
Silgranit Blanco Sink
Quooker Tap
THE BARROWFORD SHOWROOM’S HARMONIOUS AND ELEGANT DISPLAY

In Barrowford, we’ve embraced a calming, earthy palette that combines functionality with elegance. The display features Hampton Ash wood doors painted in a Natural Umber shade, mixed with Scala Olive green flat doors, and completed with a mix of antique brass handles. The warm, neutral tones of the Natural Umber give this kitchen a wonderfully cosy feel, making it a welcoming space for both cooking and entertaining.

One of the key features of this display is the 30mm Vanilla Noir quartz worktop, which stands out with its dark, characterful design. The designer bench seating includes pullout storage to maximise space without sacrificing style. The bifold worktop unit and sliding doors on the island showcase smart storage solutions. Finally, the open shelves add a touch of rustic charm!

Standout appliances:
Neff Collection Oven
Neff XL Fridge Freezer
Quooker Classic Fusion Tap
Double Bowl Tartufo Sink
THE BLACKBURN SHOWROOM’S SLEEK AND MODERN MASTERPIECE

Our new Blackburn display is a testament to a modern, streamlined design. It features a bold black and oak colour scheme, seamlessly blending practicality and contemporary aesthetics. The tall units are clad in a Black Velvet Oak, adding depth and contrast to the sleek black wall units. The Toronto base units and matching worktops are finished in Natural Vintage Oak for a beautiful and cohesive end result.

One of the standout elements of this display is the quirky curved breakfast bar, a unique feature that blends functionality with style. Raised planters behind the bar add a touch of greenery; perfect if you love bringing natural elements into your kitchen.

Standout appliances:
Neff 60cm CombiZone Black Induction Hob
Integrated Design Hood
Neff Fully-integrated dishwasher
Neff Integrated Frost Free Under Counter Freezer
More from the team’s annual trip to Germany to the headquarters of Hacker Rodinghausen showroom.
Staff from all of our showrooms attended to view the new exciting ranges of kitchens and colours that are available from now. They were given a full factory tour & took part in product workshops. It was an intensive 2 x day trip however they had a fabulous time. 

Head to our stories for more details or head over to our website to book your free design appointment 

#kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenrenovation #kitchendesignideas #kitchendesigner #teambuilding
Join The Community

Subscribe to our mailing list and get the latest news from Kitchen Design Centre