It’s easy to get caught up in the picture-perfect kitchens you scroll past on Instagram — gleaming tiles, floating shelves styled with intention, carefully curated appliances in matte finishes. But once the camera stops rolling and the filters are gone, these spaces often lack something crucial: real-life function. Sure, they look good, but can you actually cook, eat, and gather in them comfortably? The truth is, many of these so-called ‘dream kitchens’ are more show than substance — especially when they overlook everyday essentials like a place to actually sit and enjoy a meal. You can style all the shelves you like, but if you’ve forgotten to buy dining table furniture that works for your lifestyle, you’ve missed the point.
A Kitchen Needs to Work — Not Just Look Good
Aesthetics are important, but a truly great kitchen starts with how it functions. Ask yourself: can I move around easily when prepping food? Is there enough space to eat or socialise while cooking? Are my essentials easy to reach, or are they buried in a drawer that looks nice but makes daily tasks a hassle? Too often, we prioritise style over utility, ending up with a kitchen that’s visually striking but frustrating to live in. Functionality should always come first — the style can follow from that foundation.
Where Are You Supposed to Eat?
One of the most common features missing from visually curated kitchens is a proper eating area. A kitchen may be beautifully styled, but without a table or breakfast nook, where do you actually sit down to enjoy a meal? Even in smaller homes or apartments, a compact dining setup — whether it’s a slim table against a wall or a round table in a corner — can make the space feel more complete and liveable. It turns the kitchen from a performance zone into a gathering place. And that’s when the real memories happen.
Style Doesn’t Have to Mean Sterile
Another misconception is that practicality means sacrificing visual appeal. But the most impressive spaces are those that balance both. A rustic wooden table, for instance, can soften an ultra-modern kitchen and make it feel more lived-in. A few mismatched chairs can bring charm and individuality to a space that might otherwise feel too polished. Rather than striving for a ‘perfect’ setup, aim for one that reflects your personality — it’ll still look great in photos, but more importantly, it’ll feel good in real life.
Storage, Glorious Storage
Instagram kitchens often feature open shelving and minimal countertops — both visually pleasing but rarely practical. Where are all the pots, the lunchboxes, the stack of Tupperware containers missing their lids? Real kitchens need real storage. Think vertically: upper cabinets, ceiling-mounted racks, wall-mounted rails for utensils. Use baskets or lidded containers to keep open shelves looking neat while still being useful. And don’t forget drawers — not just for cutlery, but for the inevitable pile of things every kitchen accumulates.
Lighting Makes or Breaks the Space
Lighting is one of the most overlooked details in a kitchen, yet it can have the biggest impact — both on photos and functionality. Natural light is a dream, but if you’re working with a small or dark space, layered lighting can make a world of difference. Add under-cabinet lights to illuminate your bench space, use pendants above your dining area for warmth and character, and install dimmers for flexibility. Proper lighting doesn’t just improve your cooking setup — it also enhances the overall atmosphere.
Create a Space That Grows With You
Trends come and go, but your kitchen should be designed to last. Instead of chasing what’s trending online, focus on timeless elements that suit your actual lifestyle. Do you entertain often? Make room for extra seating. Love to cook from scratch? Prioritise prep space and easy-to-clean surfaces. Sharing your home with kids or pets? Think about durability and safety. A space that grows with your needs is infinitely more valuable than one designed solely for visual impact.
Don’t Let Style Limit Connection
At the end of the day, a kitchen isn’t just a backdrop for a well-lit photo. It’s where meals are prepared, stories are shared, and connections are made. Stripping it of all personality or comfort for the sake of aesthetics is a missed opportunity. Think of how you want the space to feel when you’re hosting friends or making breakfast on a quiet morning. Does it invite people in? Does it feel like part of a home, not a showroom?There’s nothing wrong with wanting your kitchen to look beautiful — but don’t lose sight of what makes it truly work. The most stylish kitchen is one that functions effortlessly and feels lived in, warm, and welcoming. That’s what really makes it worth sharing.
