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14 unfitted kitchen ideas and designs |

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There has been a rise in incorporating freestanding kitchen ideas into modern designs. 

While fitted kitchens are unlikely to ever go out of style, there has been a gradual move towards more relaxed-looking kitchens.

Freestanding kitchens range from fully unfitted spaces to single pieces, such as a standalone pantry cupboard or island on wheels so they can move as your needs change, and even move homes with you. 

Not only is a freestanding kitchen more affordable than a traditionally fitted one, it's an easy way to update an existing one. 

And if you're looking for kitchen ideas with character and personality, adding freestanding elements will take the space from looking functional to fantastic. 

Freestanding kitchens can be fully fitted, too, but with an unfitted look that gives you the best of both worlds: an efficient use of space and a relaxed feel. Here, we explore all the options.

1. Opt for a farmhouse table 

(Image credit: Plain English)

When planning a kitchen, it is always very tempting to go for a kitchen island if you are fortunate enough to have the space for one. But far too often, islands can feel like a monolithic obstruction in the middle of the room. 

However, you can take a different approach to typical kitchen island ideas: a farmhouse table. 'This can be all it takes to prevent kitchens feeling too fitted, while also proving extremely useful,’ says Merlin Wright, design director, Plain English . 

‘The addition of any freestanding piece is an opportunity to add texture and variety as a counterpoint to the kitchen’s fitted cupboards, be they vintage, antique or very crisp and modern; all add interest and personality.’ 

2. Adopt a fully unfitted look

(Image credit: Michael Rygaard)

A fully freestanding kitchen has several benefits, starting with transportability. Taking it with you when you move makes the initial investment more attractive, so this could be the perfect option for people who rent in particular. 

As the cabinets are not physically attached to walls or floors, they can also work in properties where panelling or materials are protected or fragile. Few do fully freestanding better than Copenhagen-based Frama , which makes semi-customizable metal-framed pieces in painted and timber finishes. 

This approach might seem ideal for flexible kitchen layout ideas in a large, open-plan space. However, the only elements you will want to move once they are in place are lighter items or those on wheels. Anything else will be unwieldy and/or dependent on plumbing or electrics.

3. Raise your units on legs

(Image credit: Masterclass Kitchens)

Just because an island unit can’t be moved, doesn’t mean it can’t appear freestanding. Elevating the unit on legs allows light to flow underneath, creating an air of portability.  

Run power supplies for appliances inside or behind the legs to suspend the illusion. Plumbing can be concealed centrally in deeper island units. Don’t forget, the longer the legs, the less storage you’ll achieve so do balance the design to suit your needs.

4. Mix materials for a luxurious look

(Image credit: Alexander James)

Looking for a high-end, luxurious take on freestanding? This is particularly important in open-plan kitchens where you are combining a kitchen with a living space. 

The key when thinking about kitchen styling is to find commonality between each piece, so they match in spirit not precise detail, says Lanserring , makers of this kitchen designed by MWAI. 

‘By deliberately mismatching components, each item can be designed with precision as a stand-alone piece. However, when they are curated together the feeling is rich but less formal,’ explains Alex Beaugeard, director of design, Lanserring.

5. Add a splash of color in a neutral scheme

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

If replacing your kitchen isn't an option at the moment but perhaps you are looking for kitchen color ideas to refresh it a little, a new freestanding piece can add both more storage and a splash of welcome color.

‘Freestanding elements can easily be painted to provide a pop of color and bright focal point in a neutral scheme,’ says Leisha Norman, designer, Harvey Jones . 

In the kitchen picture above, a standalone larder in Farrow & Ball’s zesty Charlotte’s Locks stands out against fitted cabinetry in cool Wimborne White. ‘Whether your style is naturally eclectic or more coordinated, incorporating just one eye-catching freestanding piece can make a big impact,’ she adds. 

6. Use portable furniture for versatility

(Image credit: Paul Craig)

‘Portable furniture is a helpful way to enjoy extra countertop or storage space as and when it’s needed,’ says George Forsyth, director, Drew Forsyth & Co . 

‘A freestanding chef’s table or butcher’s trolley, for example, can be brought in for those busy times, such as when entertaining, then moved out of the way when more floorspace is required.’ 

For portable kitchen island ideas like this one, request castors with brakes for easy mobility.  

7. Add a glass dresser to display personal pieces

(Image credit: deVOL)

‘We’ve definitely witnessed a slow move towards more freestanding kitchens over the last year or so, which, as our roots are firmly based in this look, is pleasing to see,’ says deVOL ’s creative director, Helen Parker. 

One of the simplest, and most useful, ways to take your kitchen in a more un-fitted direction, she adds, is by popping a freestanding dresser or larder at the end of the kitchen units. 

(Image credit: VIPP)

One design, one color, no fuss and no frills. Freestanding kitchens are generally less complicated than fitted but Vipp ’s modular collection deliberately boils down the complexities of planning for those who find choice overwhelming. 

Simply pick and mix from four modules – island, island with breakfast bar, wall and tall modules – add appliances and relax in the knowledge this timeless Danish-built design will last a lifetime. 

9.

 Fit the same countertop to unify your separate units

(Image credit: Very Simple Kitchens)

One downside of an entirely freestanding kitchen is the lack of seamlessly fitted countertops, without crumb-trapping joints between or at the back of units. 

Solution one is to sacrifice flexibility in favor of hygiene by fitting worktops across multiple freestanding units. Or you can make the separation feel purposeful by leaving a generous, cleanable gap, as shown here. 

Add a generous island unit or butcher’s trolley to spread out while baking.

10. Create separate working zones for more efficiency

(Image credit: Bulthaup)

Inspired by a carpenter’s workshop, bulthaup ’s b2 range consists of three standalone modules: a workbench, tool cabinet and appliance cabinet. 

‘The beauty of this modern zoned set up lies in its incredible efficiency when cooking,’ explains Alex Saint, design manager, Kitchen Architecture .

‘For example, the tool cabinet hosts an impressive array of pans, utensils and glassware, making gathering everything you need a one-trip task. ’

11. Source vintage furniture

(Image credit: VSP Interiors)

This unique space was a collaboration between interior designer Henriette von Stockhausen at VSP and bespoke kitchen specialists Artichoke. It features a pair of hefty oak preparation tables, which have an air of portability and so appear more like decorative furniture than functional pieces. Above each table is a four-arm chandelier from Circa Lighting.

12. Introduce clever color combinations

(Image credit: Nicola Harding)

Contemporary details combine with a classic design sensibility in this kitchen by interior designer Nicola Harding. She colored Plain English kitchen units in Summerset Mauve by Pure & Original and the island in Post Modern Mauve; this two-tone approach emphasizes the freestanding feel of the space. The walls are in Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster. ‘It works for any light level, any time of day, any time of year. Calm, warm, fresh, comforting,’ says Nicola.

13. Mix materials

(Image credit: Alexander James)

Tom Cox of HÁM interiors redesigned a cottage, adding a spacious kitchen in a vaulted barn extension. ‘For us, kitchens should include elegant pieces of furniture to add depth and interest,’ he says. ‘This custom-built island is made from sycamore, marble and copper.

14. Go for a look steeped in history

(Image credit: Max Rollitt)

Interior designer Max Rollitt collaborated with Plain English on this pantry in a Georgian rectory. ‘The room is given a sense of grounding with my selection of antiques, such as this Spanish table, mixed with Spitalfield cupboards in rich Tuscan Red.

How do I include a freestanding kitchen sink?

It is best to include a kitchen sink in a freestanding kitchen against a wall so that the plumbing can be conveniently and easily hidden.

However, this is not a must: kitchen sinks can be incorporated into freestanding kitchen islands, with the pipework hidden within or behind the legs.

Or drainage exiting straight down into the center of a larger kitchen island, where it can't be seen – except if you were on your hands and knees retrieving something from beneath the island.

Can a kitchen island be freestanding?

Yes, freestanding kitchen islands are an excellent way of adding extra storage and countertop space in a kitchen, whether or not the rest of the cabinetry is fitted or freestanding. Freestanding kitchens can include elements such as hobs, ovens and sinks, with wires and plumbing hidden beneath. 

Otherwise, a freestanding kitchen island that incorporates smart kitchen island seating ideas, extra kitchen storage and countertop space can create a fabulous focal point in any kitchen, and act as a useful zoning device in open plan spaces.

If you want true flexibility, and at the other end of the scale, you can make them countertop and storage only, put them on wheels (with brakes) so you can move them about to suit your needs.

Linda graduated from university with a First in Journalism, Film and Broadcasting.  Her career began on a trade title for the kitchen and bathroom industry, and she has worked for Homes & Gardens, and sister-brands Livingetc, Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, since 2006, covering interiors topics, though kitchens and bathrooms are her specialism. 

With contributions from

Freestanding kitchens: 17 flexible ways to create a rustic look

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Love the look of a freestanding kitchen but not really sure where to start in designing your own? Well, we are here to help, with these tips and ideas that will inspire you to create your own flexible space that is filled with character.  

From what layout to choose, to where to find the best freestanding kitchen units, we have everything you need to create a gorgeous space in this guide. And with a freestanding kitchen, you should have all the space you need for all your essential kitchen appliances – such as your best coffee maker, or your best air fryer. 

And, if you are after anything else kitchen related, make sure you head over to our kitchen ideas page for more advice and inspiration. 

(Image credit: John Gruen)

17 freestanding kitchen options

Once you have the practical elements sorted, like the layout you are going for and what you want to include, it's time for the best bit – making it your own. Below we have loads of ideas and inspiration so you can get decorating your freestanding kitchen. And be sure to take a look at our guide for how to design a kitchen, if you're looking for guidance on completing your project.

1. Raid flea markets to furnish a freestanding kitchen

(Image credit: Future)

While fitted kitchens might seem like a better use of the space, once you have one, you’re committed to it – and it looks, well, fitted. With freestanding kitchens, the look is more relaxed, more individual, more original, and furniture can be moved around or even replaced if you find something that better suits the space, or as your tastes change. Old homes with their wonky walls can make fitting cabinets more difficult, whereas freestanding furniture works well and can be very adaptable.

Lending themselves to vintage furniture and flea market finds, freestanding kitchens can be a cost effective way of redesigning a kitchen and creating the perfect space. Flea markets often have some hidden gems, so they are a fantastic place to start when building your freestanding kitchen.

If you’re a fan of DIY or craft, you could also really make the project your own by upcycling furniture that you already own and repurposing it for your lifestyle. If all your vintage finds need a lick of paint, have a read through our step-by-step guide to painting furniture - or, if it's a matter of restoring old wooden furniture, we've got a guide for that too.  

(Image credit: Neptune)

A freestanding kitchen is very easy to design yourself. Some people will opt for a few fitted units, and supplement the kitchen with freestanding pieces – such as freestanding kitchen islands – over time. This is a great way to spread the cost over time, if you're designing a stylish kitchen on a budget.

If you do design your own freestanding kitchen, try an online tool to organize the space as accurately as possible. Be sure to measure the space thoroughly beforehand, including where doors and windows are located.

Consider how the room is going to be used, too – is it a space for entertaining as well as cooking in? It’s also a good idea to write a wishlist of priorities, highlighting which aspects of the kitchen are most important.

3. Know what to include in a freestanding kitchen

(Image credit: Laura Ashley)

Before assembling your freestanding kitchen, think about what kind of units you actually need.

Larders are becoming the mainstay of a freestanding design, to add to the traditional ‘cook’s kitchen’ feel. Companies are adapting these to include hideaway storage areas for kettles and toasters, for clutter-free worktops, or even fitting them with marble surfaces inside for pastry making or as hidden food preparation areas.

Vintage Welsh dressers are perfect if you have a big enough space. The shelves can be used to display your favorite kitchenware, while the cupboards provide space to hide away clutter. 

Open shelving or plate racks can be added elsewhere for additional freestanding kitchen storage. Wood is a classic choice, but stainless steel versions create a low-maintenance, industrial look.

A moveable kitchen island or butcher’s block can be used to increase workspace as needed. When prepping food, a surface that can be moved from the sink to cooker can be very useful, as opposed to an installed kitchen island.

Accessories in freestanding kitchens include towel rails and chopping board trays, cleverly stored on kitchen island units. Wine racks are popular, too, to make this area of the room more of a hub for entertaining instead of being purely functional.

4. Go for country cottage charm in a freestanding kitchen 

With their awkward angles and uneven walls, country cottages can benefit from freestanding kitchen cabinets which can be easily positioned to make the most of the space. Antique wooden pieces with their time-worn patina are a great complement to rustic timber beams and stone walls. 

Love this kitchen? You are going to love more of our traditional country kitchen ideas.  

5. Display on open kitchen shelves

(Image credit: National Trust)

 If you prefer fitted cabinetry, but like the relaxed look of an unfitted kitchen, a great compromise is to have fitted base cabinets, but to replace fitted wall cabinets with open shelving. Not only will shelves help enhance the feeling of space, they are a great place to display cookwareware and pretty ceramics.

If you are after more kitchen storage ideas though, go and have a read through our feature. 

6. Add texture with a real wood design

(Image credit: Clayton Cabinets)

Chunky real wood design furniture is ideal for a freestanding kitchen, as it will add texture and a quality feel to your kitchen, whether the rest of the items are also wooden or not.

In fact, adding traditional wooden pieces to a freestanding kitchen full of more modern items can create a really unique juxtaposition, as above.

7. Invest in a kitchen dresser

Thought to date back to the 17th century, the classic Welsh dresser has become a mainstay in freestanding kitchens, as mentioned above. 

A timeless piece, it's worth investing in either a good quality antique version or new handmade version which will stand the test of time and can be passed down the generations. While the base cabinets and drawers offer ample kitchen storage for crockery and cutlery, the open shelves are ideal for displaying treasured pieces.  

If it's farmhouse kitchens you love, check out our dedicated feature full of swoon worthy ideas. 

8. Go open-plan for a spacious freestanding kitchen

A mixture of stand-alone appliances and just two freestanding units helps create an open-plan kitchen that feels spacious; the homeowners in the image above cleverly created extra storage by converting a cupboard into a larder and choosing multi-functional bench box.  

9. Add a freestanding kitchen island

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

Whether your kitchen is fitted or freestanding, a moveable kitchen island is a great piece. A brilliant way to zone social and cooking spaces, they can be repositioned when extra space is needed, plus create extra workspace. Get more inspiration with our kitchen island ideas.

10. Make the most of an awkward space in a freestanding kitchen  

If you live in a old cottage, your home is likely to be filled with nooks and crannies that run the risk of becoming dusty, dead space. These areas are ideal for freestanding kitchens, because you can use these spaces to slot in a small cupboard or place a tall dresser behind a door. If part of your kitchen is fitted, you can even paint your freestanding furniture to match, or leave it bare to create a rustic contrast.

Have a snoop around these charming cottages for more ideas. 

11. Use kitchenware to create a display 

Kitchen storage doesn’t have to mean cupboards. You spend money on pots and pans, so why not have them on display? Create a rustic-style farmhouse kitchen by storing them on wooden tables with extra shelving underneath, or hang them in attractive displays on wall hooks. This will save on space, and your pots and pans will be closer to hand when you’re cooking too.

12. Introduce the butcher’s block to a freestanding kitchen

An old butcher’s block is the ideal item of furniture for a freestanding kitchen with a rustic or industrial feel. Butchers’ blocks can stand as an island in the middle of the room, or create another worktop or preparation area when pushed up against the wall. Paired with a couple of tall bar stools, they can even be used as a smart little breakfast table if you want.

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

You could also paint an old butcher's block the same color as your kitchen cabinets to give it a more cohesive feel, almost like a built in island. We love the pale sage green of this block; try Farrow and Ball's Vert De Terre if you are after something similar. Make sure you take a tour of the rest of this gorgeous former mill keeper’s house for loads more inspiration. 

13. Wall mount cabinets in freestanding kitchens

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

If you are lucky enough to have a period home with lofty high ceilings, then wall mounted plate wracks, individual cabinets and sheila maids mixed in with fixed cabinetry is a great way to make the most of your space and give your kitchen a flexible feel. 

14. Choose a contemporary industrial style in a freestanding kitchen 

Whether you’re looking for a modern decorating scheme, or trying to add a modern touch to your period home, reclaimed industrial furniture is the perfect way to add character to any space. With a freestanding kitchen like this you can mix antiques and modern additions seamlessly. If it doesn’t work, you can simply move the units around until it does.

For more industrial style kitchen ideas check out our gallery. 

15. Mix and match old and new kitchen furniture

Pairing fitted cabinetry with a few upcycled freestanding units is a great way to add a touch of unique style. Try refreshing ornate old dressers with chalky furniture paint in a contrasting color, as done here. And if you need any tips on how to paint kitchen cabinets, we've got a easy to follow step-by-step guide. 

16. Small kitchen? You can still go freestanding 

If you’ve only got a small kitchen, the obvious choice would be to maximize on space with fitted units, but this doesn’t allow for flexibility. Instead, a few well chosen, expertly placed freestanding kitchen cabinets can be a really clever use of the space. Make sure you’ve got room for everything you need, and if you find that there isn’t enough, just swap out a unit for something more useful.

For more tips of on designing a small kitchen have a read through our dedicated feature. 

17. Choose a practical freestanding larder

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

A well-stocked pantry is what kitchen dreams are made of. But you don't need to fork out a load of money for a bespoke, fitted version. If you think about it, a pantry is just a glorified cupboard with some spices and tins in it, so really any cupboard can technically become a pantry. Choose a lovely vintage one with a few shelves (trawl eBay for a bargain), fill it with food and, just like that – you have a pantry. 

We've got lots of practical pantry storage ideas too, to make sure you make the most of that covetable larder. 

Inspired to create your freestanding kitchen? Keep reading...

Pippa is Style Editor for Period Living magazine and spends many a weekend exploring the Cotswolds for decorating shoot ideas. A collector at heart, she is currently looking for a vintage cabinet to store her favourite wares.

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goro_da

The main view of the kitchen.
Photo of a modern freestanding u-shaped kitchen with a sink sink, raised infill cabinets, gray cabinets, sintered quartz worktops, white splashback, sintered quartz splashback, porcelain stoneware flooring, island, white flooring, white countertops and multi-level ceiling in a private house

Crisp Architects

Crisp Architects

Rob Karosis, Photographer
Pictured: Classic style separate kitchen with glass fronts, wood countertops, white fronts, sink sink, white splashback and white appliances in a private home

Private home in Igora ski resort

Design by Dascha Mayer

Daria Mayer
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Sutton Coldfield

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Huge copper sink and a kitchen with a view, featuring a copper sinks by Rachiele

Rachiele Custom Sinks

www. Rachiele.com Copper sink: This kitchen has a view and the homeowners were bold enough to mix contemporary and traditional. The copper sink is a 48" copper apron front sink by Rachiele. The finish on the apron is naturally weathered for an authentic look. The faucet is a contemporary pull down PLP (Positive Lock Pulldown) faucet by Waterstone. The finish is weathered copper. Waterstone's weathered copper is a natural living finish which looks awesome with the copper sinks. All of Rachiele sinks are made in the USA. The bulk of the sinks are custom made, as was this one. There is a copper drain grid shown at the bottom of this sink. It comes in handy for resting washed pots and pans to dry. It also is a great place to set your colander while you drain pasta. The grid keeps the colander off the bottom of the sink so backwash does not get into your food. The copper sink is made in the USA, has a lifetime warranty and a guarantee that states "If you are not thrilled with the quality, we will buy it back, pay all shipping and send a check for $100 in consideration of the inconvenience". Follow us on Facebook for additional discounts and free giveaways: http://www.facebook.com/copperusa http://www.rachiele.com

Cozy Cottage

Hill Farm Furniture Ltd

This cozy cottage, with its low ceilings and uneven walls, needed a bright, functional kitchen that would suit a young family. The bespoke Quebec Yellow timber cabinets, painted in Farrow & Ball Joah’s White, quite literally fit the bill, whilst the English Oak work tops and hand forged iron handles add warmth and character. The owners also wanted a bespoke kitchen table, which Hill Farm crafted from English Oak and finished in a stunning cherry color to match the kitchen stove. Photo: Clive Doyle

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AVILA. Interior and Architecture Studio

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Quiet comfortable design in a country house. Designer - Irina Kilina.
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Roman Leonidov / Architectural Bureau

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Every corner sink we build is custom designed and hand-crafted. This photo shows a diagonal corner workstation stainless sink. The photo is deceiving though. This huge sink can easily fit a half sheet pan flat down on the bottom without covering the entire drain. Rachiele came up with this innovative design 2 decades ago and has led the industry with innovative designs since then.

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goro_da

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Santa Barbara Spanish

Lisa Krempasky Design; ASID Affiliate

Custom designed inset cabinetry; Maple wood with Antique White painted finish.
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Glorious Surrey Mansion

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Kitchen alone or together with the living room - Building your home securely

Today we decided to compare two types of layouts: when the kitchen and living room are two separate rooms, and when it is a combined space.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of both options.

KITCHEN SEPARATED FROM THE LIVING ROOM

BENEFITS

  1. A separate kitchen is the opportunity to cook in peace, without being under the gaze of other family members.
  2. The insulated kitchen also prevents odors from spreading throughout the house.
  3. Closing the door to the kitchen, you can be calm: children do not have access to dangerous kitchen utensils and appliances.
  4. The living room, in this case, is a separate room where you can leave guests for the night, and not interfere with their sleep in the morning and not feel discomfort themselves while preparing breakfast at this time in the kitchen.
  5. Clutter in the kitchen can remain out of sight - you just need to close the door. After a culinary duel, sometimes you want to take a break.

DISADVANTAGES

  1. Most likely, the kitchen will not allow you to comfortably place a large dining table in it, or this space needs to be increased so as not to interfere with each other and ensure free movement in the kitchen.
  2. Since this is a separate room, it will require the construction of interior walls and the installation of a door - these are additional costs.

The combined space of the kitchen-living room

Advice

  1. if we recall the “Khrushchevs”: Popular practice-the wall between the cuisine and adjacent rooms-the wall-the walls between the kitchen room furniture arrangement. In your own homes in the kitchen-living room, windows and glass doors to the floor are most often installed, so you not only due to the absence of walls and partitions, but also visually increase the space.
  2. Realization of many design solutions. This layout will appeal to lovers of Western architectural styles.
  3. If you love guests, then this solution is convenient - no need to run from the kitchen to the living room and interrupt communication.
  4. You can also quickly set and clear the table - everything is at hand.
  5. This is an opportunity to connect with the family more, as evenings are increasingly spent in the living room, so you will not be cut off from the family fun while cooking.

DISADVANTAGES

  1. As opposed to a separate kitchen, the distribution of odors around the house will, but most importantly, make competent and high-quality ventilation and exhaust. The second point is, after all, this is a kitchen, not a garage, the reason for the spread of aromas around the house is not in favor of such a planning decision - one of the last that arises from customers. Probably, this is a reason to learn how to cook deliciously 🙂
  2. It will be necessary to keep the kitchen area in the ideal frequency, there will be no opportunity to receive friends in the living room, hiding behind the kitchen door not an ideal order.
  3. Also, during cooking, there may be noise from electrical appliances that will disturb those in the living room.
  4. If you do not have a guest bedroom, then it will be more difficult to leave overstayed guests to spend the night, especially in the morning.
  5. The combined space of the kitchen-living room is an easy access for children to the stove and other electrical appliances and dangerous equipment. there are special locks and protection against children in such a case, take care of their safety.

    Learn more