Modern Muse: The Power of Finishing Touches in a Kitchen Design

When designing a home, it’s easy to think the hard part ends once the cabinets are in and the paint is dry—but the finishing touches are what truly complete a space. These final layers hold the power to elevate your design from “done” to “refined,” turning a house into a personal expression of beauty and function.

In our Modern Muse kitchen, finishing touches were selected not just for how they look, but for how they make the space feel—clean, calm, and effortlessly elegant. Whether you’re in the middle of a renovation or dreaming up your future kitchen, here are four key things to consider when selecting finishing touches for your own home:

1. The Art of Intentional Choices

Finishing touches aren’t afterthoughts—they’re intentional design decisions that define how a space lives and breathes. In our Modern Muse kitchen, every detail was chosen with purpose. For example, the open wood shelves weren’t just added for visual softness; they create an opportunity to display curated pieces like sculptural vases, earthy ceramics, and neutral-toned glassware, which layer in warmth without clutter. The brass accents—seen in the cabinet pulls, pendant lights, and appliance knobs—bring cohesion across the space while adding a subtle, modern elegance. Even the styling objects, like the art books and tonal dishware, were selected to feel calm and cohesive, enhancing the serene palette of the room.

These kinds of finishing decisions are what elevate a kitchen from functional to truly personal. When designing your own home, consider what you want to feel when you walk into the space—and let those feelings guide your choices in everything from lighting to accessories.

2. Durable, Yet Beautiful

Finishing touches may be beautiful, but they also need to last. Open shelves, for example, should be made from solid wood or sealed materials that can handle exposure to moisture and kitchen heat. In Modern Muse, the oak shelves were selected not just for tone and texture, but because they’ll hold up over time while looking better with age.

Ask yourself: will this material show water spots or fingerprints? Can it handle heat and frequent use? For areas like hardware, lighting, and shelving, always lean into finishes that are both hardwearing and forgiving—think satin brass, powder-coated metals, or sealed natural wood.

3. Choose Finishes That Are Easy to Maintain

A beautiful kitchen should also be easy to maintain. Choose finishing touches that don’t require constant fussing. In this project, matte finishes, smooth countertops, and minimalist styling make the space feel fresh without being high maintenance.

For your own home, think about placement and ease of cleaning. For example, consider wall sconces or pendants that don’t collect dust easily, or use decorative objects that can be wiped down without worry. Keeping the visual clutter low will make your kitchen feel more relaxing while also being easier to keep tidy.

4. Don’t Overlook Sustainability

Every choice you make can also be a conscious one. The finishing touches are a great place to incorporate sustainable design—whether it's using reclaimed wood for open shelving, choosing locally made ceramics, or investing in high-quality hardware that won’t need to be replaced.

In Modern Muse, styling elements like neutral-toned ceramics and layered natural materials support a more thoughtful approach to design. When designing your own home, ask: can I source this piece from a small maker? Is this item built to last? These questions not only help reduce waste, but often lead to more meaningful and unique design results.

5. Let Finishing Touches Reflect You

Your home should feel like yours. Use finishing touches to showcase your personality—whether that’s through a sculptural vase, a stack of your favorite cookbooks, or a vintage light fixture you scored on a weekend trip. These details make the space feel personal, lived in, and full of intention.

Final Thought

Finishing touches may be small, but their impact is lasting. When chosen with care, they can bring balance, character, and meaning to your space. Whether you're deep in a renovation or just refreshing a few elements, let these details work just as hard as your big design moves.

Ready to design a space that feels just as good as it looks?

At GDVD, we believe every detail matters—and we're here to help you design a home that reflects your style, supports your lifestyle, and stands the test of time. Whether you're starting from scratch or refining the finishing touches, we'd love to bring your vision to life.
Let’s create something beautiful together