HomeLane’s Idea Book: Trending Two-Toned Straight Kitchens

With homes getting smaller and more compact, simple, streamlined designs are trending. And it doesn’t get more basic than the straight kitchen—a layout that has the kitchen cabinets all lined up against a single wall. Whether you do a lot of cooking or not much at all, a one-wall kitchen can be designed to beautifully accommodate all the appliances and equipment that you need for dishing up the most delicious meals.

Wondering how you can make the most of your straight kitchen? We’ve picked out some lovely two-tone kitchen ideas from the HomeLane design archives that you can take inspiration from. Take a look, and pick the one(s) that you like best!

Pistachio and Cream

This colour combo reads like a flavour of icecream, and looks every bit as delicious! Highly functional Shaker-style cabinets in pistachio run below the white quartz counter, with a well-stocked tall pantry on one side. The upper row of cabinets is in rich cream and designed with a minimalistic outline; while the delicately printed tile backsplash beautifully ties the two levels together. Note the custom-designed open shelves next to the pantry that hold spices and condiments—a must-have value-add in any kitchen that’s low on storage space.

Sunny Yellow and Teal

Sunny yellow cabinets meet deep teal—a vibrant and visually pleasing colour duo—in this modern one-wall kitchen. A breakfast counter that extends out perpendicular to one end provides additional counter space for quick meals. The geometric-patterned tile backsplash catches the eye and adds an extra dimension to the space.

Purple and White

Here, royal purple and cool white create a high-impact pairing that is glamorous and very chic. A deep larder unit that runs from floor to ceiling maximises storage, holding extra appliances when not in use so that the countertops can be clutter-free. We love the high-gloss acrylic finishes that lend a luxe contemporary feel.

Black and White

You can never go wrong with this classic yin and yang combination! While most black and white kitchens would go with black along the lower run of cabinets, this kitchen turns tradition on its head and opts to have white below. Subway tiles in an unusual shade of green provide colour and style, and the terrazzo countertops adds speckled pattern.

Beige and Brown

Quiet and unassuming, this combination of matte-finished brown and glossy beige cabinets is as simple and clean as they come. The wall units increase storage space, with the loft level coming in useful for storing seasonal cookware. The black countertop complements the colour palette and completes the look.

Red and White

This spacious kitchen proves that a one-wall layout does not have to be restricted to compact kitchens alone! With plenty of storage space and a long countertop, this elegant kitchen features high-gloss red cabinets, contrasted by white upper open shelves.

Yellow and Grey

Here’s an example of a tiny kitchen that packs a punch! With just enough space to store the basics that any home cook needs and no more, this pocket-sized kitchenette pairs bold yellow against simple grey.

Yellow and White

Yellow and white are colours that always look good together, but never have they been more pleasing than in this compact kitchen! We love the way the lines of the upper cabinets have been broken up with unexpected bursts of colour, creating a straight kitchen that’s packed with personality.

Tips to Help You Make the Most of Your Straight Kitchen

• Two-tone kitchens usually work best when the lower row of cabinets is in a darker shade than the upper level.
• If space permits, by adding a small island on the opposite side you will get additional space for prep or storage.
• A one-wall kitchen, by its very nature, is minimalistic and clutter-free. So, think twice before buying any equipment that you don’t really use regularly, as you’ll find yourself short of space to store it in!
• If you need more storage, install another row of cabinets that run up to the ceiling. You can stash away extra seasonal items there for use when you need them.
• Install your straight kitchen on a wall without a window, so that you can maximise the counter and storage space available.
• Using push-to-open cabinet shutters will do away with the need for handles, and make a small kitchen feel less busy.
• Lighting plays an important role in a one-wall kitchen, especially if there is no access to natural light. Install LED strip lights below the upper row of cabinets to provide task lighting on the countertop.

Are you looking for two-tone straight kitchen ideas? Loved our ideas, and want to implement them in your home? Call a HomeLane designer today, or visit your nearest HomeLane Experience Centre to explore your options.