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Smart & stylish modern kitchen design ideas

The kitchen is the heart of every Malaysian home. With compact spaces on the rise, modern kitchen design prioritises smart space utilisation and functionality. If you're planning for a kitchen remodel, choosing the right layout, cabinetry, and finishes can make all the difference. Here are modern kitchen ideas to create a stylish, functional space. 

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A high-gloss light grey-blue KALLARP drawer front

1. Minimalist kitchen: clean, sleek & clutter-free

A minimalist kitchen focuses on simplicity, functionality, and clean aesthetics. By reducing visual clutter and using neutral colours, the space looks more open and inviting.

To achieve this look, opt for handleless modern kitchen cabinets with a smooth, push-to-open mechanism, enhancing the streamlined appearance. Glossy white kitchen cabinets or light grey cabinetry help reflect light, making small kitchens appear more spacious. Additionally, integrated appliances, such as built-in ovens and concealed refrigerators, maintain a seamless aesthetic, while under-cabinet LED lighting brightens workspaces without adding bulk. This design is perfect for small houses and compact urban homes, ensuring efficiency without sacrificing style.

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MITTLED LED kitchen worktop lighting strip shines over a worktop that has cabinets with oak effect VOXTORP fronts.
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Our METOD modern kitchens come with 25 years guarantee

A METOD kitchen gives you endless possibilities when designing your kitchen.

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2. Open concept kitchen: airy & spacious feel

Open-concept kitchens connect the cooking space with the dining or living area, creating a sense of openness—which is ideal for small condominium and apartment units. This layout not only enhances natural light but also improves ventilation, which is essential in kitchens where strong cooking aromas are common.

For starters, consider kitchen islands or bar counters as they create a natural divide between the kitchen and dining area, providing additional workspace. Another point to consider is to opt for open shelving instead of solid dividers to keep the space visually light while using matching floor tiles or wooden flooring across both areas ensures a cohesive look. For a final touch, pendant lights above the island add warmth and elegance, elevating the overall aesthetic. 

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Kitchen with STENSTA dark brown ash veneer fronts and an ENHET high frame wall shelf holding kitchen appliances and utensils.
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Our ENHET modern kitchens come with a 10-year guarantee

For a kitchen that is stylish, functional, and built to last, IKEA’s ENHET modern kitchen series is the top choice for many Malaysian homeowners. ENHET kitchens are easy to assemble and disassemble, and they come with a 10-year guarantee. 

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3. Smart storage solutions: making every inch count

With limited space in many Malaysian homes, maximising storage cannot be understated. Instead of traditional bulky cabinets, smart storage solutions ensure every inch of your modern kitchen is utilised efficiently.

Pull-out pantry systems provide easy access to dry goods, while vertical wall-mounted racks keep utensils and spices within reach. If you prefer neat and clean aesthetics, hidden drawer organisers help keep cutlery, plates, and cookware neatly arranged, and corner carousels or pull-out shelves prevent wasted space in deep cabinets.

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A stainless steel KUNGSFORS container in the kitchen
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Tabletop & countertop choices

Your kitchen countertops should be durable, stylish, and easy to clean, especially when handling Malaysian-style cooking with turmeric, oily dishes, and spicy sauces. In a modern kitchen, sleek yet functional countertops enhance both aesthetics and practicality, making cooking and cleaning effortless. 

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4. Bold & stylish: adding a pop of colour

A modern kitchen isn’t limited to neutrals—bold colours make a statement. Black cabinets with metal accents create a luxurious kitchen design, while modern blue cabinets with gold handles exude sophistication. Grey or navy paired with light wood adds stylish contrast. Matte or high-gloss finishes can enhance your chosen look. For extra depth, try accent walls or bold-coloured backsplashes. 

A matt anthracite NICKEBO drawer front

5. Before you call it done, check these kitchen must-haves!

The right lighting for every mood

Lighting sets the tone in your kitchen. Under-cabinet lights improve visibility, pendant lights add style and dimmable options switch between bright task lighting and a cosy ambience.

Stylish yet practical accessories

Upgrade functionality and style with matching cookware, sleek soap dispensers, and chic storage jars. A wooden chopping board or marble tray adds texture, creating a designer-curated look. 


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Get started on a beautifully organized home with our free online planning service or visit the Planning Studio in IKEA Malaysia stores. You can also use our self-planning tools to design every corner, from the kitchen to the bedroom. Let's make your vision a reality!

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