1. Cabinet Material:

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  8. Sustainability Features:

• Ensure that the wood veneer is sourced from sustainable forests, and that the quartz countertops are made using eco-friendly processes, offering both aesthetics and environmental responsibility.

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  7. Lighting:

• Under-cabinet lighting: LED strips under the upper cabinets can illuminate the countertop and create a floating effect.
• Pendant Lights: Hang modern, sleek pendant lights over the island to draw attention and provide task lighting.

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  6. Color Scheme:

• Cabinets: Neutral tones, such as white, light gray, or even a soft beige for the base cabinets, combined with the rich oak veneer, will complement the modern aesthetic while keeping the space feeling open and fresh.
• Countertops: Light-colored quartz with subtle veining works best in a modern kitchen, though darker quartz with a bold design can be an option for more dramatic contrast.

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  • Quartz Finish: Go for a polished or matte finish, depending on your preference. A polished quartz will add shine and reflect light, making the space feel brighter and larger.

  5. Finish:

• Wood Veneer Finish: Choose an oak veneer with a natural, warm finish. The wood can be light or medium oak to maintain a modern look while adding warmth to the kitchen.

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  4. Handles & Hardware:

• Handles: For a modern feel, go for sleek, minimalist handles. These could be brushed nickel, matte black, or even integrated push-to-open mechanisms for a handle-free design.
• Soft-Close Hinges: These add an element of sophistication and functionality, ensuring that doors and drawers close quietly and smoothly.

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  3. Island:

• Design: The island should serve as a focal point of the kitchen. A large, bold island with oak veneer on the sides and quartz on the top creates a balanced look.
• Storage: Include integrated drawers or open shelving beneath the island for extra storage space. You can even incorporate a wine rack or pull-out shelves for easy access.
• Seating Area: If the space allows, consider adding seating to the island (e.g., barstools) for a casual dining experience.

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  2. Countertop Material:

• Quartz (15mm to 20mm thickness): Engineered quartz is durable, non-porous, and low-maintenance. For a modern kitchen, opt for white, gray, or even marble-like veining patterns, which pair beautifully with both dark or light oak tones.
• Edge Profile: Consider a straight edge or waterfall edge for a sleek and contemporary finish. The waterfall edge, in particular, works well for creating a seamless, flowing design, especially for the island.