Design Like a Chef

As an interior designer, I spend a lot of time thinking about how a space feels—not just how it looks. And if there’s one place where ambiance is everything, it’s a restaurant. Think about it: have you ever walked into a beautifully designed bistro, sat down under the perfect warm lighting, and thought, I could stay here forever? That’s not an accident. That’s design magic.

And then you go home. Your overhead kitchen light is aggressively bright (turn off those recessed lights people!), your dining chairs are slightly uncomfortable (but they looked great online!), and suddenly, the takeout on your mismatched plates doesn’t feel as elevated as it should. Sound familiar? Don’t worry—your home can have the same inviting, effortless elegance as your favorite restaurant. You just need to design like a chef (minus the stress and Gordon Ramsay-level intensity).

Step One: Think Like a Restaurant Kitchen—Because Efficiency is Sexy

Ever watched a professional kitchen in action? It’s like a perfectly choreographed dance, minus the tutus. Chefs don’t waste time running in circles—they have a flow. Your home kitchen should, too.

That means creating a natural path from fridge to sink to stove, so you’re not zigzagging across the room every time you need an onion. It also means keeping your most-used tools within reach—no more digging through the abyss of a junk drawer for that one spatula. (We all have that drawer. It’s fine.)

If you’re working with a smaller space, think chef-style stations. A little prep zone, a cooking area, a plating space—small tweaks like this make cooking feel smoother and way less chaotic.

Step Two: Lighting Can Make or Break the Mood (or Your Self-Esteem at Dinner)

Restaurants understand something we often forget at home: lighting is everything. The best ones create an intimate, warm glow that makes food look incredible and somehow makes everyone’s skin look ten years younger. Meanwhile, your kitchen’s harsh overhead light is giving "surgical operating room."

Here’s how to fix it: layers, layers, layers. Use pendant lights over the island, add under-cabinet lighting (game changer), and for the love of all things design, get dimmers. Nothing kills a cozy dinner vibe like feeling like you’re being interrogated by the FBI.

And let’s not forget candlelight. If you want to instantly elevate a meal, dim the lights, light a candle, and pretend you’re at a five-star restaurant instead of eating pasta in your pajamas. (No judgment, I 100% support this.)

Step Three: If Your Seating is Uncomfortable, Nobody Will Stay for Dessert

You know those hard, tiny chairs some restaurants use so you don’t linger too long? Yeah, we don’t want that. The goal is the opposite—you want people to stay, sip wine, and enjoy.

Banquette seating? Yes. Cushioned dining chairs? Absolutely. And if your dining chairs currently feel like medieval torture devices, consider some chic seat cushions. Style and comfort—it’s not too much to ask.

Also, think about table height and spacing. Ever been to a restaurant where the tables are so close together you’re basically eating with strangers? Let’s avoid that. We are going for intimate, but no one wants to smell the garlic on your breath. At home, give your dining space room to breathe so it feels comfortable and effortless, not cramped and chaotic.

Step Four: Table Settings—Because You Deserve to Feel Fancy

One thing restaurants always nail? A well-set table. Even the most casual spots put effort into it—because presentation matters.

At home, ditch the chipped plates and invest in a nice set of dinnerware that actually matches. Add cloth napkins (because you’re fancy now), a textured table runner, and—if you really want to level up—some statement glassware. Trust me, drinking water from a beautifully designed glass just hits different.

And don’t forget the centerpiece! It doesn’t have to be extravagant—fresh flowers, a bowl of lemons, or even a stylish candle will do. Just something to make your table feel thoughtfully styled instead of “Oops, I forgot to clean up from breakfast.”

Step Five: The Finishing Touches (a.k.a. What Makes a Space Feel Effortlessly Luxe)

Great restaurants don’t just look good—they feel good. And that’s because they engage all the senses. You can do the same at home.

+ Music Ever notice how restaurants always have the perfect playlist? A little soft jazz, some acoustic covers, maybe a hint of French café vibes? Set the mood at home with a playlist that makes your kitchen and dining space feel intentional.

+ Scents A signature scent can completely change the vibe. Think fresh citrus in the morning, warm vanilla in the evening or a little eucalyptus if you’re feeling fancy.

+ The Little Extras A stylish salt and pepper set, beautifully folded napkins, a small vase with fresh herbs—these tiny details make everyday meals feel special, without any extra effort.

Bringing It All Together: Your Home, But Make It Michelin-Starred

At the end of the day, designing like a chef isn’t about making your kitchen look like a commercial space—it’s about creating an experience. One where cooking feels easy, dining feels special, and your home feels just as inviting as your favorite restaurant.

So go ahead, light that candle, pour yourself a drink in a fancy glass, and enjoy your space. You deserve it.

And if you need a little help getting that perfect restaurant-inspired home vibe? Well, you know where to find me.