32 Things In Your Kitchen Illinois Designers Believe Diminish Your Home’s Elegance

Kitchen elegance isn’t just about fancy appliances it’s about the details that create a cohesive, sophisticated space.

Illinois designers have spotted common items that secretly sabotage your kitchen’s style potential.

From outdated materials to clutter culprits, these everyday elements might be holding your kitchen back from true elegance.

1. Plastic Cabinet Handles

Flimsy plastic handles instantly broadcast ‘budget renovation’ to anyone who enters your kitchen. The material not only looks cheap but yellows over time, especially in sunny Illinois kitchens.

Designers recommend swapping these dated fixtures for brushed nickel, matte black, or brass options that elevate your cabinetry without breaking the bank. Even basic cabinets look substantially more expensive with quality hardware.

The good news is that replacing handles is one of the easiest and most affordable kitchen upgrades you can tackle in a weekend, immediately transforming your space from lackluster to luxe.

2. Laminated Countertops with Fake Stone Look

Attempting to mimic granite or marble with printed laminate creates an immediate disconnect in your kitchen’s visual story. The uniform pattern repeats too perfectly, lacking the natural variations that make real stone so captivating.

Illinois designers point out that these surfaces often feature obviously fake edge seams that further betray their true identity. The flat appearance can’t capture the depth and dimension of authentic stone.

If natural stone exceeds your budget, consider solid-surface alternatives like butcher block, concrete, or even quality quartz that don’t pretend to be something they’re not. Authenticity always trumps imitation in elegant design.

3. Cluttered Countertops

Nothing diminishes kitchen elegance faster than countertops overrun with appliances, mail piles, and random household items. Even expensive marble looks ordinary when you can barely see its surface.

Chicago designers consistently rank this as the top kitchen elegance killer. The visual noise prevents the eye from appreciating your kitchen’s architectural features and creates an impression of disorganization.

Try limiting visible countertop items to three carefully chosen pieces that combine beauty and function. Store lesser-used appliances in cabinets or create a dedicated appliance garage to maintain both accessibility and visual calm.

4. Plastic Dish Drying Racks

Those bulky countertop dish drainers in bright colors or cloudy white plastic create instant visual clutter. Water collects in the base, often developing mildew and stains that no amount of cleaning can fully remove.

Designers from the Prairie State suggest alternatives that maintain functionality without sacrificing style. Rollable dish drying racks that extend over the sink then tuck away when not needed offer a sleek solution.

For those with adequate cabinet space, consider European-style dish cabinets with slotted shelves that allow dishes to drip directly into the sink. This approach keeps counters clear while embracing the practical elegance that defines sophisticated kitchens.

5. Excessive Fridge Magnets

Your refrigerator isn’t a scrapbook or bulletin board. The collection of souvenir magnets, children’s artwork, and expired appointment reminders creates a chaotic focal point that draws attention for all the wrong reasons.

Illinois designers note that this common habit transforms what could be a sleek appliance into a cluttered eyesore. The visual noise disrupts the clean lines and intentional aesthetic that defines elegant kitchens.

If family communications are essential, consider designating a single, less prominent area for important notes, or create a proper command center elsewhere. For truly elegant kitchens, treat your refrigerator as the substantial design element it is—clean, unadorned, and sophisticated.

6. Bold Themed Dish Towels

Those kitschy dish towels with humorous wine sayings or seasonal motifs might seem harmless, but they create visual interruptions in an otherwise sophisticated space. The bright colors and busy patterns draw the eye away from your kitchen’s architectural features.

Naperville designers particularly note how these items often clash with carefully chosen color schemes. Even worse are the novelty towels with frills, appliqués, or 3D elements that collect dust and food particles.

Instead, choose simple linen or cotton towels in neutral tones that complement your kitchen palette. Quality textiles in understated colors provide the same function while contributing to an elegant, cohesive look that doesn’t compromise your kitchen’s design integrity.

7. Plastic Sink Mats

Those rubber or plastic mats sitting in your sink basin might protect your dishes, but they’re harboring something else: bacteria. The perpetually damp environment creates perfect conditions for mold growth in the tiny crevices.

Beyond the hygiene concerns, these utilitarian items immediately signal a functional rather than beautiful approach to kitchen design. Springfield designers point out that elegant kitchens treat every element even those inside cabinets and sinks as worthy of thoughtful selection.

Consider wire grid mats in matching metal finishes if protection is necessary, or better yet, invest in a quality sink that doesn’t require additional protective layers. The details matter in truly refined spaces.

8. Vinyl Flooring with Loud Patterns

Busy geometric patterns or high-contrast checkerboard vinyl flooring overwhelms the visual space and dates your kitchen instantly. These bold designs were popular in previous decades but now signal a kitchen stuck in time.

Many Illinois homeowners select these patterns thinking they’ll hide dirt, but designers warn they actually draw more attention to the floor than it deserves. The artificial shine of vinyl further detracts from the natural materials that define elegant kitchens.

If budget constraints make natural stone or hardwood impossible, consider luxury vinyl tile in subtle wood tones or porcelain tile with minimal variation. The floor should support your kitchen’s design story, not become its most dominant character.

9. Busy Mosaic Tile Backsplashes

Those tiny multicolored glass tiles that seemed so trendy a decade ago now create visual chaos in your kitchen. The countless grout lines collect grease and food particles, becoming increasingly difficult to clean as they age.

Chicago designers note that these busy backsplashes compete with other design elements and prevent the eye from resting anywhere comfortably. The reflective quality of glass mosaics also creates distracting light patterns throughout the day.

For timeless elegance, consider larger format tiles, simple subway patterns, or continuous materials like marble or quartz that extend from your countertops. These options create a seamless, sophisticated backdrop that allows other elements in your kitchen to shine.

10. Wire Shelving Units

Those metal wire shelves might be practical, but they scream “temporary solution” rather than thoughtful design. Small items wobble precariously, dust collects on the horizontal wires, and everything stored becomes part of your visual landscape—whether attractive or not.

Evanston designers particularly note how these utilitarian units create an institutional feeling reminiscent of commercial kitchens or garage storage. The exposed nature of wire shelving means every item must be display-worthy or risk creating visual clutter.

If additional storage is necessary, consider freestanding furniture-style pieces with doors, or built-in cabinetry that maintains the architectural integrity of your space. Elegant kitchens conceal the utilitarian while highlighting the beautiful.

11. Mismatched Small Appliances

That fire-engine red toaster alongside a black coffee maker and stainless steel blender creates visual discord on your countertops. Each appliance demands attention rather than contributing to a cohesive design story.

Illinois designers frequently cite this common oversight when evaluating kitchen elegance. The jarring color and finish differences create a piecemeal appearance that suggests items were acquired randomly rather than thoughtfully selected.

Consider investing in appliances from the same design family or in consistent finishes that complement your kitchen’s color palette. If budget constraints make replacing everything impossible, prioritize matching the most visible everyday items while storing rarely used appliances out of sight.

12. Cheap Looking Faucets

Your faucet serves as jewelry for your sink area, yet many Illinois homes feature flimsy, plastic-handled options that detract from the entire kitchen. The lightweight feel and hollow sound when operating signal lower quality to anyone who uses it.

Plating on budget faucets often wears off around the base and handle areas, creating discolored patches that no amount of cleaning can restore. The proportions typically appear awkward either too small for the sink or with ungainly shapes that lack intentional design.

Investing in a quality faucet with substantial weight, smooth operation, and proper scale transforms both the look and daily experience of your kitchen. This focal point merits careful selection in truly elegant spaces.

13. Worn-Out Area Rugs

That faded, stained kitchen rug with fraying edges undermines your entire design, no matter how carefully you’ve selected other elements. Fabric that’s visibly worn suggests neglect rather than intentional curation.

Champaign designers particularly caution against rugs with outdated patterns or colors that no longer complement your current kitchen palette. The disconnect creates a jarring visual experience that prevents your kitchen from feeling cohesive.

If budget allows, invest in quality indoor/outdoor rugs specifically designed to withstand kitchen conditions. These options resist staining and moisture while maintaining their appearance for years. Alternatively, consider hardwearing natural materials like sisal or jute in simple patterns that age gracefully.

14. Bulky Knife Blocks

Those massive wooden blocks housing your knife collection consume precious counter space while collecting dust in hard-to-clean crevices. The mismatched knife handles protruding at various angles create visual chaos rather than orderly elegance.

Oak Park designers note that these utilitarian storage solutions rarely complement other wood tones in your kitchen, creating an orphaned element that fails to integrate with your overall design. The substantial footprint forces compromises in your working space.

Consider magnetic knife strips that showcase your cutlery as intentional design elements while freeing counter space. For those preferring concealed storage, in-drawer knife organizers protect blades while maintaining the clean lines that define sophisticated kitchens.

15. Plastic Utensil Holders

Flimsy plastic containers holding your everyday cooking tools suggest temporary solutions rather than thoughtful design choices. The lightweight material tips easily when reaching for items, creating both practical frustrations and visual disorder.

Water often collects in the base of these containers, creating potential hygiene issues and shortening the lifespan of wooden-handled tools. The bright colors typical of plastic organizers rarely complement sophisticated kitchen color schemes.

Rockford designers suggest replacing these with substantial ceramic crocks, woven baskets, or metal containers that coordinate with your hardware finishes. Selecting materials that echo other elements in your kitchen creates visual harmony while elevating everyday objects to intentional design statements.

16. Faux Fruit Bowls

Dusty arrangements of plastic grapes and waxy apples instantly broadcast “dated decor” to anyone entering your kitchen. These artificial displays lack the changing seasonality that makes real fruit so visually appealing.

Illinois designers consistently rank these as among the most egregious elegance offenders. The unnatural colors and textures create an uncanny valley effect recognizable as fruit but clearly fake drawing attention for all the wrong reasons.

Instead, embrace the beauty of actual seasonal produce in simple, substantial bowls that complement your kitchen design. When fresh options aren’t available, leave the bowl empty or filled with natural elements like pinecones or citrus rather than permanent plastic impostors.

17. Oversized Wall Clocks

Massive decorative timepieces with distressed finishes and oversized Roman numerals dominated farmhouse trends but now appear disproportionate in most kitchen spaces. Their substantial visual weight demands attention while offering limited design sophistication.

Peoria designers note that these statement pieces often feature generic sentiments or busy faces that create visual noise rather than refined elegance. The scale typically overwhelms other more subtle design elements worthy of attention.

If time-keeping is essential in your kitchen, consider sleek, appropriately sized options that complement rather than dominate your space. Alternatively, integrate clocks into appliances or select models that blend seamlessly with your overall aesthetic rather than announcing themselves as the kitchen’s main character.

18. Ruffled Curtains

Fussy window treatments with gathered valances and tiered ruffles collect dust and grease particles in your cooking space. The excessive fabric creates visual weight that makes windows appear smaller and ceilings lower than they actually are.

Highland Park designers particularly caution against overly themed curtains featuring chickens, coffee cups, or other kitchen motifs that create a dated, kitsch appearance. The busy patterns and excessive detailing compete with rather than complement your kitchen’s architectural features.

For window treatments that enhance rather than diminish elegance, consider simple roman shades in natural materials or streamlined panels that frame your windows without overwhelming them. Clean lines and quality fabrics signal intentional design choices that elevate your entire space.

19. Popcorn Ceilings

That bumpy, cottage-cheese texture overhead instantly dates your kitchen to decades past. Beyond its outdated appearance, the rough surface collects cooking grease, dust, and spider webs that prove nearly impossible to clean effectively.

Designers across Illinois identify these textured ceilings as immediate elegance killers. The uneven surface creates unflattering shadows and prevents light from reflecting properly, making your entire kitchen appear darker and smaller than it actually is.

While removal requires professional help due to potential asbestos concerns in older homes, the transformation creates dramatic results. Smooth ceilings reflect light properly, create visual height, and provide a clean canvas that allows other design elements to shine.

20. Fake Brick Backsplashes

Those thin veneer panels with printed or molded brick patterns fool absolutely no one. The uniform color, perfect edges, and repeating patterns immediately signal artificial materials trying unsuccessfully to mimic the real thing.

Winnetka designers particularly note how these backsplashes develop visible seams and corners that further betray their true identity. The flat appearance lacks the dimension, character, and authenticity that make actual brick so appealing.

If the industrial or rustic aesthetic appeals to you, consider investing in thin brick tiles made from actual clay that provide authentic texture and variation. Alternatively, embrace different materials entirely rather than installing unconvincing imitations that undermine your kitchen’s design integrity.

21. Low-Quality Bar Stools

Wobbly stools with vinyl seats and flimsy metal frames communicate temporary solutions rather than thoughtful design choices. The materials typically wear poorly, with torn cushions and scratched legs becoming eyesores within months of regular use.

Arlington Heights designers note that these budget seating options often feature awkward proportions that prioritize low cost over proper ergonomics. The result is seating that looks and feels uncomfortable, diminishing both the appearance and functionality of your kitchen island or peninsula.

Quality stools with proper scale and substantial materials elevate your entire kitchen while providing comfortable seating that encourages lingering conversations. Consider this furniture as an investment in both aesthetics and the everyday experience of your space.

22. Excess Wall Decals

Those vinyl lettering quotes about family and coffee transform your kitchen walls into a visual billboard rather than a sophisticated backdrop. The generic sentiments often feel mass-produced rather than personally meaningful.

Designers from Schaumburg particularly caution against overlapping themes and messages that create visual confusion. The temporary nature of these adhesive decorations often results in curling edges and fading color that suggests impermanence rather than established elegance.

If wall art speaks to you, consider properly framed pieces that reflect your authentic interests rather than mass-market phrases. Alternatively, let architectural elements like windows, backsplashes, and quality cabinetry serve as your kitchen’s visual interest without additional layer of text.

23. Decorative Plate Racks

Dust-collecting plate displays featuring souvenir or themed dishware create busy focal points that rarely enhance your kitchen’s design story. The multiple colors, patterns and shapes compete for visual attention rather than creating harmonious impact.

Glenview designers particularly caution against wall-mounted racks that interrupt the clean lines of contemporary kitchens. The exposed storage concept requires constant curation to avoid appearing cluttered or haphazard.

If you own beautiful dishware worthy of display, consider glass-fronted cabinets that protect pieces from grease and dust while creating a more cohesive presentation. This approach showcases your collections while maintaining the architectural integrity that defines truly elegant kitchens.

24. Wobbly Table and Chairs

Unsteady dining furniture creates both visual and functional disharmony in your kitchen. The slight movement when touched signals poor quality regardless of the material or design style.

Bloomington designers note that wobbly furniture often leads to compensatory behaviors folded napkins under legs or strategic placement to hide flaws that further detract from your kitchen’s elegance. The instability creates a temporary feeling that undermines even the most careful design choices elsewhere.

Investing in quality dining furniture with proper construction ensures both aesthetic longevity and daily functionality. If budget constraints exist, consider fewer but better pieces that provide stable, comfortable seating without compromising on structural integrity.

25. Dated Ceiling Fans

Those oak-bladed fans with frosted light fixtures and pull chains broadcast “1990s builder-grade” to everyone who enters your kitchen. The mismatched wood tones typically clash with your cabinetry while the scale often appears disproportionate to the space.

Designers from Buffalo Grove particularly note how these fixtures collect grease in kitchen environments, creating sticky surfaces that attract dust and become increasingly difficult to clean. The dated styling creates a visual interruption in your ceiling plane.

If air circulation remains necessary, consider modern, streamlined fans with integrated LED lighting and remote controls that eliminate dangling chains. Alternatively, explore architectural alternatives like recessed ceiling vents that provide airflow without compromising your kitchen’s visual sophistication.

26. Loud Patterned Linoleum

Bold geometric or floral patterns in sheet vinyl flooring create visual noise that overwhelms rather than complements your kitchen design. The repetitive nature of printed patterns immediately signals artificial materials attempting to mimic more expensive options.

Oak Lawn designers note that these busy floors demand attention for all the wrong reasons, preventing the eye from appreciating other more sophisticated elements in your kitchen. The typically glossy finish further detracts from the natural, subtle materials that define elegant spaces.

Consider flooring with subtle variation and matte finishes that support rather than compete with your overall design. Even budget-friendly options like luxury vinyl plank or laminate now offer sophisticated appearances when selected in understated patterns that prioritize texture over busy visuals.

27. Artificial Plants

Dust-collecting silk arrangements with faded colors signal outdated decor approaches faster than almost any other kitchen element. The unnatural textures and too-perfect arrangements lack the organic quality that makes real plants so visually appealing.

Designers from Orland Park particularly caution against those artificial arrangements permanently attached to baskets or containers, preventing seasonal updates or fresh styling. The static nature creates a time-capsule effect that dates your entire kitchen.

If maintaining live plants seems challenging, consider low-maintenance options like succulents or pothos that thrive with minimal care. Alternatively, fresh herb gardens provide both visual beauty and practical cooking benefits while signaling thoughtful, current design choices.

28. Plastic Soap Dispensers

Those store-branded pump bottles with product labels create unintentional advertising in your carefully designed space. The lightweight plastic tips easily, creating potential messes while signaling temporary solutions rather than thoughtful selections.

Northbrook designers note that these utilitarian items, while practical, create visual disruptions in your sink area. The mismatched colors and branded graphics rarely complement your kitchen’s color palette or design language.

Consider transferring necessary products to coordinating dispensers in materials that echo your faucet finishes or complement your overall design scheme. This simple swap elevates everyday necessities to intentional elements that contribute to rather than detract from your kitchen’s cohesive elegance.

29. Cheap Under-Cabinet Lights

Those stick-on battery-operated puck lights create uneven illumination with unflattering color temperatures. The visible housing and obvious retrofit nature signal afterthought lighting rather than integrated design planning.

Designers from Park Ridge particularly caution against budget options with exposed wires or mismatched light colors that create jarring transitions between lighting zones. The inconsistent illumination creates shadows precisely where task lighting is most needed.

Quality under-cabinet lighting installed during construction or thoughtful renovation provides even illumination that enhances both functionality and atmosphere. Properly selected color temperatures complement your materials while highlighting your backsplash and countertop details in their best light.

30. Microwave Above Range

Placing your microwave over your cooktop creates both functional and aesthetic challenges in your kitchen. The awkward height makes it dangerous to remove hot items, especially for shorter household members.

Designers from Urbana note that this placement interrupts the visual flow of your cabinetry while positioning a utilitarian appliance at eye level. The typically black or stainless face creates a heavy visual element precisely where lighter, more elegant vent hoods would enhance your kitchen’s proportions.

Consider relocating your microwave to counter level, tucking it into a pantry, or selecting drawer models that integrate seamlessly into lower cabinetry. This approach prioritizes both safety and sophisticated design while freeing space for proper ventilation.

31. Visible Paper Towel Rolls

That cardboard tube with perforated paper creates an unintentional focal point that screams “utilitarian” rather than “elegant.” The branded packaging and bright white color draw attention for all the wrong reasons.

Designers from Crystal Lake particularly note how these everyday items, while necessary, create visual disruptions on countertops or walls. The vertical holder models with decorative finials often clash with your hardware finishes while consuming valuable visual space.

Consider under-cabinet mounts that keep paper towels accessible but out of sight lines, or drawer solutions that conceal rolls completely until needed. This approach acknowledges practical needs while maintaining the clean, intentional aesthetic that defines sophisticated kitchen design.

32. Trash Can on Display

Exposing your garbage bin creates both visual and olfactory challenges in your kitchen, regardless of how decorative the container might be. The utilitarian purpose conflicts with the elegant atmosphere you’re trying to create.

Designers from Joliet note that even attractive free-standing bins inevitably show wear through daily use. The visible presence constantly reminds guests of waste rather than focusing attention on your kitchen’s more sophisticated elements.

Consider pull-out cabinet solutions that conceal bins while maintaining easy access during meal preparation. Alternatively, explore toe-kick drawers that utilize otherwise unused space beneath cabinetry. These approaches acknowledge practical needs without compromising the refined aesthetic that defines truly elegant kitchens.