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Decoration

7 ideas for modern and practical kitchens to get inspired

With precise choices, it is possible to compose a modern, practical kitchen that is connected to the habits of those who use it.

By Milena Garcia

Submitted at May 27, 2025, 8:00 AM

08 min de leitura
Carlos Navero and Melissa Camargo - Reflections of Tradition. Creating projects with nods to the memories of the past to be used in the future guided the duo of interior designers in this dining room with an integrated kitchen. With 53 m² and an atmosphere of enchantment, the area is imbued with affection expressed in original elements of the construction, such as the recovered century-old flooring, and new materials. Among them, the rounded ceiling slats and the natural straw wallpaper featuring a design that references the ikat dyeing technique stand out.

Carlos Navero and Melissa Camargo - Reflections of Tradition. Creating projects with nods to the memories of the past to be used in the future guided the duo of interior designers in this dining room with an integrated kitchen. With 53 m² and an atmosphere of enchantment, the area is imbued with affection expressed in original elements of the construction, such as the recovered century-old flooring, and new materials. Among them, the rounded ceiling slats and the natural straw wallpaper featuring a design that references the ikat dyeing technique stand out. (Israel Gollino)

Integrated projects, functional solutions, and refined aesthetics define the concept of modern and practical kitchens. In addition to being a space for meal preparation, the kitchen has become a gathering point in the house — where moments are shared, self-care is practiced, and guests are welcomed. Therefore, the challenge lies in reconciling contemporary design with comfort and functionality. With this in mind, we have gathered seven ideas for those who wish to transform their kitchen into a modern, organized, and inviting project.
Bezerra Panobianco Architecture - Soft Echoes. CASACOR São Paulo 2025 Project.

Bezerra Panobianco Arquitetura - Ecos Brandos. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Juliano Colodeti/CASACOR)

1. Custom Cabinets


Brunete Fraccaroli - Lar Amar. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2025.

Brunete Fraccaroli - Lar Amar. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Carolina Mossin/CASACOR)

Custom furniture is an ally in organization and maximizing space. They allow compartments to be tailored to your specific needs — whether to embed appliances, hide the pantry, or ensure more fluidity in the layout. Neutral tones and recessed handles help reinforce the minimalist aesthetic, while wooden finishes or contrasting colors can add personality to the project.

2. Invest in a Multifunctional Island


dlp Architecture - Living Kitchen. Project of CASACOR Rio Grande do Sul 2025.

dlp Arquitetura - Cozinha de Estar. Projeto da CASACOR Rio Grande do Sul 2025. (Cristiano Bauce/CASACOR)

The central island is no longer exclusive to large kitchens. With the advancement of compact and smart solutions, it can be incorporated into various formats, even in integrated plans with the living room. It can serve as a preparation area, support for quick meals, or even include a cooktop and sink. When well planned, the island also becomes a gathering point — enhancing togetherness while cooking.

3. Layered Lighting


Studio Roca - Casa Brastemp. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2025.

Studio Roca - Casa Brastemp. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Denilson Machado/CASACOR)

Modern kitchens value functional and decorative lighting. Invest in a project with different light sources: recessed lights in the ceiling for general illumination, LED strips under cabinets to highlight the countertop, and pendant lights over the island or dining table. In addition to facilitating daily use, this type of lighting contributes to visual comfort and helps create more welcoming atmospheres.

4. Built-in Appliances


Armentano Architecture - Between Cups Deca. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2025.

Armentano Arquitetura - Entre Copas Deca. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Juliano Colodeti, do MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

Ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, and built-in ovens ensure a cleaner and more sophisticated visual. Additionally, they free up useful space and improve organization. In the realm of practical kitchens, it is worth opting for multifunctional appliances, such as ovens with air fryer function or compact dishwashers that optimize time and effort in daily life.

5. Easy-to-Clean Coatings


Gourmet area integrated with the kitchen gains personality with touches of orange. Project by Mariana Leal. In the photo, kitchen with island and orange cabinetry.

Projeto de Mariana Leal. (Edgard Cesar/Divulgação)

Practicality also lies in the details. Choosing materials that combine durability and simple maintenance is essential. Satin-finish porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, and quartz or Dekton surfaces are excellent options for countertops and walls. Light colors help expand the project and make cleaning easier, while dark tones create elegant contrasts — just choose according to the desired style!

6. Open Shelves and Niches


Marina Linhares Interiors - Alchemy of Living Portinari. CASACOR São Paulo 2025 project.

Marina Linhares Interiores - Alquimia do Morar Portinari. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Bia Nauiack/CASACOR)

Apart from closed cabinets, modern kitchens make good use of open shelves and niches. They provide quick access to utensils, allow decorative objects to stand out, and bring visual lightness to the ensemble. It is a practical solution for storing pots, jars, or spices functionally and also adding personality to the decor with vases, books, or pieces of handcrafted ceramics.

7. Integration with Other Projects


Meet the apartment of architect Bárbara Dundes in São Paulo. In the photo, integrated kitchen with counter and dining room on the balcony.

Projeto de Bárbara Dundes. (Fran Parente/Divulgação)

The integration between kitchen, living room, and dining room is a strong trend in contemporary architecture — and one of the pillars of practicality. This proposal enhances togetherness and eliminates visual barriers, making the space more fluid and inviting. To create harmony among projects, use continuous coatings on the floor and maintain a coherent color palette. If you want to preserve some privacy without losing integration, slatted panels or sliding doors are excellent resources. CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.