Monochromatic Palette

• One of the easiest ways to add a contemporary touch to your kitchen is to decorate with a monochromatic palette. Choose colors for your walls, cabinets, counter top, appliances and table that are done in varying shades of the same color. This reduces visual obstructions that cut into the line of sight, making the room look larger and more open.
  
  If you want to add contrast, stick with a simple neutral palette and add pops of bright colors in small items throughout the room. An all-white kitchen with bright splashes of red in dish towels, candles, and place mats, for example, creates a stylized, modern feeling. For a bolder look, use wide expanses of a bold color in an otherwise monochromatic room -- on an accent wall, counter top front or dining table.
  
  

Minimalist Design

• An important part of contemporary design is the use of clean lines. Choose kitchen furniture and appliances that use a simple design. Instead of a dining table with ornate carving, choose a sleek, artistic style. Look for low-profile appliances and furniture to minimize chaos and create a room that the eye can flow smoothly around. For inspiration, look to Asian-style design elements.
  
  

Simple Lighting

• Keep lighting simple. Avoid overly-designed lighting elements like traditional chandeliers or flowery light shades. Instead, choose sleek options like a row of pendant lights or a simple geometric chandelier. Add light by using recessed circular lights embedded into the ceiling or under the cupboards to brighten the room. Consider use track lighting to allow directed light that will brighten dark corners or add light to a work space.
  
  

Reduce Clutter

• A dominating feature of a contemporary kitchen design is the lack of clutter, which interrupts the line of sight and creates a chaotic look. Choose furniture that does not have a great deal of detail, and use drawer organizers to keep utensils, papers and small utensils in check. Install cabinets and wall storage that hides dishes and food items and limit the use of counter-top storage or decor elements.