Nothing beats the warm glow of a lit hearth in the colder months. We all know that fireplaces and living rooms go hand in hand, but I've been convinced that this classic feature works just as well in a less conventional room – the kitchen.
It was Jennifer Aniston's ultra-modern kitchen that swayed me on this. Featuring clean lines and organic textures, the balance of cool and classic has been perfected in her space. In fact, every piece shines, but what makes the room truly accomplished is the open fireplace. It ties the scheme together and creates that all-important cozy and inviting feel that we all strive for in a kitchen.
I'm convinced that fireplaces and kitchens are the new power couple, and it's not just me. Interior designers say that this timeless design feature is one all kitchens should include – even ultra-modern spaces like Jennifer's.
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Jennifer's kitchen is one-of-a-kind in style; it features such a unique range of objects that add to its charm and coziness. Luckily, it's more than possible to recreate the look at home with these stylish alternatives.
You'll notice Jennifer's kitchen features an artisanal wooden fruit bowl, much like this organic style from West Elm. Fill it with fresh produce or keep it empty; however you style it, it'll bring an ultra-cool organic feel to your space.
This lacquered pepper mill is effortlessly cool and will blend right into any space. With its classic shape and sleek lacquer, it's the perfect way to honor Jennifer's sleek minimalist style.
In Jennifer's space, a classic wooden style sits on her countertop. No kitchen is complete without a chopping board, so to recreate the look, place the Kenmore Acacia board on your island for a pared-back vibe.
Elevate your kitchen with the Olen Paper Towel Holder, where style meets practicality. Made from sturdy black iron, its minimalist design and refined details bring a touch of sophistication to any space. Ideal for countertops or open shelving, it keeps your paper towels within reach while maintaining a clean, organized look.
Bring modern elegance to your home with this set of two mesh bowls. Lightweight yet durable, they’re perfect for showcasing fruit or serving as eye-catching décor. Crafted from sturdy metal, they’re food-safe and easy to clean by hand (not dishwasher safe).
Brew the perfect pour-over coffee or tea with this stainless steel kettle. Its sleek design adds a touch of refined style to your countertop, while the built-in thermometer ensures your water is always at the ideal temperature for the perfect cup.
Jennifer's modern kitchen is undoubtedly contemporary. With its sleek stone island and wooden cabinets, it's a homage to the modern organic style. What makes the kitchen unique is its balance of styles.
Featured amongst these clean lines and natural textures are vintage details, like the bespoke wooden stools and the one-of-a-kind bronze pendants. These thoughtful details give the space a cozy, lived-in feel, but what truly brings the various styles together is the fireplace. It's not rare to see a fireplace featured in a farmhouse kitchen, but I'd never seen an open hearth in a modern cooking space. In Jennifer's space, it connects the old and new details, providing some much-needed character.
'A fireplace adds warmth and personality,' explains Interior designer Holly Scott, 'turning the kitchen into a space to gather rather than just cook. It softens all the hard surfaces and brings a sense of calm and connection – the true heart of the home. The rise of ‘living kitchens’ has made fireplaces a key feature again. They help balance the sleekness of modern layouts with texture and warmth, creating a more inviting and layered feel.'
Move away from traditional fireplaces and create a modernist masterpiece by using sleek materials such as those featured in Jennifer's space. Holly suggests, 'For a contemporary look, I focus on simplicity and materials. Clean lines, soft tones and natural textures keep the space feeling fresh and timeless.'
If you're considering adding a fireplace to your kitchen, Colleen Bennett, Founder of CBB Design Firm, says, 'To modernize a fireplace in the kitchen, incorporating it into an open-concept design with a see-through feature is a great approach. This not only maintains visual openness but also allows the fireplace to serve both the kitchen and the adjoining space, making it feel integrated and contemporary.'
What makes Jennifer's kitchen so special is its perfect balance of organic materials, modernist shapes, and lived-in details. It's ultimate contemporary cooking space that leaves room for thoughtful objects and characterful charm. At the center of the design is the fireplace – it bridges the gap between old and new and transforms the space into the heart of the home.
