The Property Brothers' 16 Best Tips For A Stunning, Timeless Kitchen

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If you're embarking on a kitchen renovation, you want to make sure that your choices won't immediately go out of style. Luckily, the Property Brothers have been in the design industry long enough to know what design features will stick around. Creating a timeless kitchen will save you money in the long run, ensure that you love the look for years to come, and may even help you with future resale. 

Beyond longevity, you also want your kitchen to look sleek, stunning, and luxurious. Depending on your budget, priorities, and personal aesthetic, there are tons of ways to achieve a beautiful cooking space. The Property Brothers have worked with a wide range of clients, always aiming to give them a design that will suit their needs and wants for years to come. So, borrow some tips, tricks, and timeless inspiration from our favorite kitchen makeovers by HGTV's Jonathan and Drew Scott.

The brothers recently wrote on Facebook, "We may not design as many white kitchens as we used to, but there is something clean and classic about a bright white aesthetic." Just one stunning example of this technique is the renovation in Season 10, Episode 6, of "The Property Brothers." In an effort to create a classic yet modern kitchen, the Property Brothers opted for white, glossy cabinetry that reflected the natural light. Jonathan explained the plan, saying, "The kitchen should have shiny white high gloss cabinets."

There are tons of white kitchen designs that will never go out of style. However, it can be tricky to choose the right shade for your space. It's not as simple as choosing "white" when there are endless variations to select from. If you want to create a cozy space, go with a warm shade that has subtle undertones, like Cloud White by Benjamin Moore. For something a little more crisp and airy, try a true white like Chantilly Lace. These are both listed on Benjamin Moore's list of popular white paint colors for cabinets. To break up the white surfaces and add interest, use colorful furnishings or a bold backsplash like the Property Brothers did in their design.

In Season 14, Episode 18, Drew and Jonathan wanted to move away from an all-beige palette while still embracing a neutral foundation. This renovation shows how black cabinets are the perfect way to achieve a daring yet timeless space. Jonathan said, "We'll add a custom range hood, black cabinetry, and a massive island that will give you all the room you need." This wasn't the only instance in which the brothers advocated for dark cabinets. On the Drew & Jonathan blog, Drew wrote: "Kitchens are meant to feel lived in, and they take a beating. Dark cabinets can hide some of that wear and tear."

Just like white, there are endless variations of black paint to choose from. All of the shades have hints of certain colors, so it's important to decide which undertones are best for your space. Although it has a very slight blue undertone, Tricorn Black is the closest to a true black that Sherwin-Williams has in its catalog. For a warmer option with very subtle brown undertones, go for Black Magic. Before making your final decision, don't forget these tips for choosing the right black cabinets for your kitchen.

In Season 14, Episode 15, the homeowners didn't want a cookie-cutter home. Instead, they felt inspired by chic, French interiors. Drew and Jonathan took this opportunity to install a timeless, oversized oven range with a beautiful navy-blue finish. To emphasize the appliance even more, they built an arch around the hood. Jonathan exclaimed, "Is this not the most beautiful range?" The clients agreed, saying: "That is the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."

If your oven range is over 15 years old, it might be time to think about finding a replacement. In our survey to discover whether gas or electric stovetops are the most popular, gas stoves took the top spot. However, if limiting your energy consumption is your priority, electric and induction ranges are ideal. Plus, there are electric options that have been crafted to mimic the look of classic ranges. As an extra boost of enduring style, frame your new range with an arch and tile combo. DIYing an arch over your range will take some woodworking experience to ensure structural stability. A backsplash with a classic pattern, like the one on Squarefeet Depot's Flora Encaustic Tile, can add interest while keeping the look timeless.

Throughout Season 14, Episode 12, Drew and Jonathan had to change their plan for this kitchen multiple times, but one feature remained a "must." Because the entire wall was covered in cabinetry, the duo decided that a classically curved, plaster vent hood would be an ideal centerpiece. Jonathan shared the concept: "Now that the kitchen is in, the plaster vent hood can be finished in place. It's going to be a stunning focal point to the sea of cabinets."

It can be difficult to choose the right range hood for your home. There are countless style options, even if you've narrowed it down to a plaster-style finish. The texture can be sleek or coarse, depending on your personal aesthetic. You can also choose from a variety of different colors. However, white plaster is a timeless option that will go with almost any cabinetry. You can even DIY your own with a range hood insert, plywood, plaster, joint compound, and paint.

Drew and Jonathan have opted for an all-white kitchen more than a few times, but they have a few tricks up their sleeve to make sure the sleek space doesn't look bland. In Season 14, Episode 9 of "Property Brothers," Drew pointed out their clever accent pieces: "I just love that you have the contrast from the white countertops to the darker light fixtures, and even the floating [wood] shelves on the back wall that are contrasting the white cabinets." These pops of visual variation will help maintain a timeless space that doesn't look washed out.

Starting with dark light fixtures, you can explore a range of flush-mount and pendant lights. For a timeless approach, go with something sleek and simple like these Tengxin Modern Pendant Lights. Another minimalist option is the Politamp Modern Pendant Light, which has a wood accent that can tie in the other wood-toned details throughout your space. Finish your space with the Homeforia Oak Floating Shelves. If you really want to add a unique, yet timeless, touch, try repurposing reclaimed wood as shelving.

Drew and Jonathan decided to go for (tasteful) drama in their kitchen renovation in Season 14, Episode 6. They designed a counter-to-ceiling backsplash with blue, textured herringbone tiles. Drew showcased the design, stating, "You have that beautiful herringbone look, but it has texture to the tile. I love that you have the smooth here and then more texture over here." Herringbone is a classic pattern that still appears dynamic and unique.

There are several ways you can incorporate a herringbone pattern into your kitchen. When it comes to your backsplash, try classic white subway tiles if your goal is a clean look that complements any design style. For something more luxurious, try a marble herringbone backsplash that adds elegance. If you like Drew and Jonathan's colorful take, you can also opt for glass tiles in soft blue or gray tones. Last but not least, handcrafted clay tiles will give your home an artisanal touch. Beyond your backsplash, herringbone tile floors are another way to use the pattern in a timeless way.

Drew and Jonathan have pointed out that the layout of your kitchen is as important as the design features, if not more so. The location of the appliances greatly affects the flow of your cooking space. Jonathan explained in a YouTube clip for HGTV: "The most important thing is, you want to get the triangle right. Easy access from the sink to the fridge to the stove." You want to avoid running across your kitchen to retrieve ingredients. A good workflow will help you curate a timeless cooking space, because you will never have to worry about reconfiguration if the workflow triangle is well-planned.

The work triangle isn't a concept that the Property Brothers created. In fact, it has been a longstanding design technique that dates back to the 1940s, further proving its timelessness. The total distance connecting the three main work areas needs to be at least 13 feet and less than 26 feet. It's also important to avoid placing any obstacles in the path between the range, sink, and refrigerator.

If your goal is to create a clean, timeless space, integrated appliances are an ideal solution. In Season 8, Episode 7, of Celebrity IOU, Jonathan showed off the final result, saying, "Everything's integrated — it just makes it look clean, the aesthetic is minimal, which is nice." Plus, trends tend to change when it comes to finishes. If your appliances are hidden, you don't have to worry about the surfaces looking dated.

Plus, installing panel-ready appliances can boost your home's value. You can purchase custom-paneled refrigerators, dishwashers, vent hoods, and more. The major con to this approach is the higher upfront cost. Not only are panel-ready appliances more expensive, but the appliances themselves are typically narrower than the standard sizes. The alternative is overlay panel-ready appliances, which have custom cabinet doors that attach to the front but leave room for ventilation, causing the appliance to protrude.

Another way to add variation to your all-white kitchen — without going overboard — is by adding tasteful pops of color. The Kitchn cited a conversation with Jonathan where he told viewers, "For the longest time, it's been white cabinets in white kitchens. Lighter colors help bounce light around and feel cleaner and brighter. But I love a little color. Stained wood, blues, greens." He also mentions yellow as a great accent shade. This concept is timeless because it allows you to change up your kitchen without committing to a full renovation.

You can always swap in different shades as your tastes and trends change, allowing the base of your kitchen to remain the same. When it comes to timeless paint, consider the most popular shades by Benjamin Moore, including Ocean Air and Palladian Blue. You can also add splashes of color through knobs and drawer pulls, like these light green Ravinte Cabinet Knobs.

In Season 14, Episode 5 of "The Property Brothers," Drew and Jonathan decided to move the kitchen from the front to the back of the house for one reason — the view. Jonathan explained, "Having the kitchen at the front of the house overlooking the driveway wasn't the best layout. That's why this whole thing needs to come out so the heart of the home will overlook their backyard." On Facebook, they explained the importance of the view, writing, "It's always ideal to position the kitchen sink under a window, so adding this large picture window was the perfect way to accomplish this classic kitchen look."

Few things are more timeless and stunning than a serene view. If you have kids or are planning to, being able to see them playing in the backyard from the kitchen is just as timeless from a practical perspective. If you need to add a window to achieve this layout, make sure to research the necessary permits. 

There are countless episodes where the brothers incorporate an oversized kitchen island. In Season 14, Episode 4, of "The Property Brothers," they even integrated a functional island into a small kitchen. During the reveal, the homeowner exclaimed, "This is a great-sized island. It's perfect for entertaining." Jonathan replied, "Plus, you have all the stools on the back side of the breakfast bar." On their Facebook page, they further emphasized the importance of an island, noting, "A kitchen island with seating adds functionality and appeal."

The key to a classic island is making sure the size is suitable for your space, and that the countertop material isn't too trendy. For example, don't choose a surface like busy granite, a kitchen island style that can make your home look dated. And, the island doesn't take up more than 10% of your kitchen's total size. For a timeless surface, the Property Brothers are a big fan of quartz.

The key to curating a timeless kitchen is to be selective with your bold decor. Drew recommends choosing either bold cabinets or countertops – but never both! In Season 7, Episode 2, of "Celebrity IOU," he said, "If we go a little bolder with the cabinets, maybe we could go a little bit simpler with the countertop. On the other side, if we go a little bit more neutral with the cabinets, maybe we could go a little bit more bold with the countertops."

White or wood-toned cabinets pair well with marble countertops and bold veining. Black quartz that mimics marble is another stunning option that will add the perfect touch of contrast. If you prefer neutral countertops, try two-tone cabinets for a tasteful approach. Black or navy lower cabinets with white upper cabinets can create a balanced appearance.

Both Drew and Jonathan agree that there is one thing that can instantly make your kitchen look dated rather than timeless –- laminate countertops. Jonathan told HGTV, "I can't think of a single kitchen design where laminate would look better than stone, butcher block, or a solid surface like Corian." Drew chimed in, saying, "It frustrates me to no end when people spend their budget on a product, like laminate, that automatically seems dated — it's like throwing money away!"

As Drew and Jonathan mentioned, there are tons of alternatives to laminate. Although it's often the least expensive option, there are other budget-friendly solutions. For example, butcher block countertops can cost between $30 – $100 per square foot, and they can be easily sanded down and refinished to enhance longevity. Tile is another affordable option – just be prepared for grout maintenance.

Quartz is extremely durable, so it's no surprise the Property Brothers have selected quartz as one of their top countertop material picks. In fact, there are several reasons why the Property Brothers love using quartz countertops. They wrote on their Facebook page, "A marble-look quartz countertop is classic and timeless, while also being incredibly functional!"

Quartz countertops are available in pure white, midnight black, and everything in between. There are plenty of companies that use advanced technology to create natural veining and striations that mimic the look of natural stone. If you want a sophisticated look, you can't go wrong with a Calacatta-inspired surface. Choose between warm or cool-toned veining, depending on what will complement your existing fixtures and finishes.

When designing your kitchen, it can be tempting to get swept up in the latest trends. Although the Property Brothers aren't against adding personality to your home, they emphasize the risk of changing your style later on and having to renovate the entire space. However, there are solutions to prevent this future problem. Drew told NBC News, "Try not to go too bold on the more expensive items like countertops because the more bold you go, the quicker they'll go out of style."

There are plenty of ways to play with kitchen decor in affordable and flexible ways. Small changes, like swapping out dish towels or adding a colorful rug, can instantly refresh the space. Lighting updates, such as pendant lamps or under-cabinet strips, can transform the mood and make the kitchen feel brand new. For example, these HitLights LED Strip Lights can elevate the look of your kitchen without making a permanent change.

The benefit of mixing metals is that you won't fall into the trap of adhering to a certain trend-focused finish. Sometimes warm tones are in style, and then the next year, cool metals are taking over. Creating a dynamic kitchen full of mixed metals will help you avoid this issue altogether. Jonathan told Native Trails, "One of the biggest trends is mixed metals, but also mixing many materials to make for more interesting designs. For us, it's about creating something interesting. You never walk into a space where everything is matchy-matchy and typical and then walk away with a feeling of it being unique and wonderful. We go for a very eclectic mix of materials."

There are plenty of ways to mix metals and maintain a timeless space. For example, try brass or brushed gold pulls with stainless steel appliances. You can also consider matte black options for your light fixtures or faucet. The key is to make sure that one metal isn't concentrated in one area of your space. Spreading them around your kitchen will make the approach appear intentional. For more guidance, this is how to mix metals in your home decor the right way.