In Oakland County, Michigan, the kitchen is more than just a space to cook—it’s the heart of the home. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, entertaining guests, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee on a Sunday morning, your kitchen sets the tone for how you live, gather, and create memories. That’s why so many homeowners across Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills, Troy, and beyond are turning to custom kitchen renovations to elevate their spaces.
At Renovation By Design, we understand that every home is different—and every homeowner’s vision is unique. From luxurious finishes to thoughtful layouts, these kitchen design ideas are perfect for anyone looking to transform their Oakland County kitchen into something truly special.
1. Open-Concept Layouts That Bring People Together
Gone are the days of closed-off kitchens. One of the most requested updates in Oakland County homes is opening up the kitchen to the living or dining area. This creates a more social, welcoming environment, ideal for both daily life and entertaining.
Removing either load-bearing or non-load-bearing walls as well as reconfiguring cabinetry can help achieve that open-concept feel. The result is a space that feels bigger, brighter, and more connected. Many of our clients in Birmingham and Royal Oak love how open layouts improve sightlines, increase natural light, and allow for better flow between rooms.
Pro Tip: Incorporate a large kitchen island with seating to serve as a casual dining area, prep space, and gathering point all in one.
2. Timeless Cabinets with a Modern Twist
Cabinetry is often the first thing people notice—and it plays a major role in both style and storage. Homeowners in Oakland Township and West Bloomfield are leaning toward clean-lined shaker cabinets in neutral tones like white, warm gray, or soft beige. But we’re also seeing a rise in bold choices like navy, forest green, or even matte black for a more dramatic look.
For a modern twist on traditional cabinetry, consider:
- Two-tone cabinets (light uppers, dark lowers)
- Slab-style doors with integrated pulls
- Open shelving to display glassware, cookbooks, or local pottery
Quality matters too. At RBD, we design and build custom cabinetry tailored to your space, ensuring seamless fit, durability, and function.
3. Quartz Countertops: Durable, Beautiful, and Low Maintenance
Quartz has become the go-to choice for countertops in Oakland County kitchens—and for good reason. It mimics the look of natural stone while offering superior durability and resistance to stains, scratches, and heat.
White and light gray quartz with subtle veining continues to be a favorite, especially in homes that embrace a clean, minimalist aesthetic. For those looking to make a statement, bold quartz with dramatic marbling or waterfall edges adds instant elegance.
And unlike granite or marble, quartz doesn’t require regular sealing—making it a practical yet stylish choice for busy households.
4. Statement Backsplashes
A well-designed backsplash can instantly elevate your kitchen’s personality. From handcrafted porcelain tiles to modern slab backsplashes, there are endless ways to add texture, color, and charm.
In Rochester Hills and Ferndale, we’re seeing homeowners lean into:
- Zellige tiles for an artisanal, hand-glazed look
- Elongated subway tiles in herringbone or vertical patterns
- Marble-look porcelain for a luxe finish without the high maintenance
When designing your backsplash, consider how it complements your countertops, cabinets, and overall color palette.
5. Smart Storage Solutions That Simplify Life
A beautiful kitchen should also work hard for you. That’s why intelligent storage solutions are a must. Think beyond standard drawers and doors—today’s kitchens are all about maximizing space and minimizing clutter.
Some of our favorite smart storage upgrades include:
- Pull-out spice racks and tray dividers
- Deep drawers for pots and pans
- Hidden charging stations
- Pantry pull-outs with adjustable shelves
- Appliance garages to keep counters clear
“That’s why the best kitchen designs are the ones that reflect how you live. Whether it’s a pet station under the island, a coffee bar built into the pantry, or extra outlets for all your gadgets, we design kitchens that work for your real life.”
In homes across Clarkston and Lake Orion, these hidden helpers are game-changers, especially for busy families or those who love to cook.
6. Integrated Appliances for a Sleek Look
As kitchen design leans more minimal and modern, integrated appliances are becoming increasingly popular. Built-in refrigerators, dishwashers with matching cabinet panels, and sleek cooktops help create a cohesive, uninterrupted aesthetic.
We’ve worked with many homeowners in Bloomfield Hills and Troy to incorporate:
- Drawer microwaves for better ergonomics
- Panel-ready dishwashers and fridges
- Wall ovens stacked with steam or convection units
- Hidden range hoods within custom cabinetry
These upgrades aren’t just about looks—they also enhance workflow, accessibility, and resale value.
7. Lighting That Layers In Style and Function
Great lighting is often the secret weapon of standout kitchen design. You need task lighting for food prep, ambient lighting for mood, and accent lighting to highlight design features.
Some ideas we love bringing into Oakland County kitchens:
- Pendant lights over the island for visual interest
- LED under-cabinet lighting for extra visibility
- Recessed ceiling lights with dimmers for versatility
- Toe-kick lights for a soft nighttime glow
Pro tip: Choose fixtures that echo your kitchen’s overall design style—whether it’s mid-century modern, transitional, or farmhouse-inspired.
8. Sustainable and Locally Sourced Materials
More homeowners are looking for ways to make eco-conscious choices without sacrificing style. At RBD, we’re proud to source sustainable materials and work with local Michigan suppliers whenever possible.
Some earth-friendly kitchen updates include:
- FSC-certified wood cabinetry
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- Recycled glass or paper composite countertops
- Low-VOC paints and finishes
- Smart appliances that reduce energy and water use
If is a priority, our design team can help you make selections that align with your values—and still deliver on beauty and function.
9. Customized Design for How You Live
No two families are the same. That’s why the best kitchen designs are the ones that reflect how you live. Whether it’s a pet station under the island, a coffee bar built into the pantry, or extra outlets for all your gadgets, we design kitchens that work for your real life.
When you work with our design+build team at Renovation By Design, we start by understanding your goals, style, and routines. From initial concepts to final finishes, we bring your vision to life—down to the last detail.
Let’s Design Your Dream Kitchen
If you’re ready to reimagine your kitchen, our Rochester Hills showroom is the perfect place to start. We’ll walk you through cabinetry options, material samples, and layout possibilities tailored to your home and lifestyle.
From Farmington Hills to Lake Orion, Oakland County homeowners trust Renovation By Design to deliver kitchens that are as functional as they are beautiful. Contact us here or call our showroom at (248) 260-7639 to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our designers.
