Open kitchen

One thing about an open kitchen: You have less wallspace for cabinets, so you have to be creative with storage. Here, a large island with drawers beneath the countertops provides the solution.

The island drawers are deep enough to hold large bowls, pots, and pans. The island also houses the oven. For a stylish backsplash, interior designer Mary Margarett Nevin installed a fireback into the wall behind the cooktop. This element is also practical; it doesn't absorb grease.

• From the Parkview Idea House in Atlanta, Georgia