A well-done kitchen can make or break the sale of a newly built home, especially when dealing with high-end clients. The good news is that tapping into the latest high-end kitchen design trends doesn't have to mean skyrocketing expenses. By prioritizing certain materials and finishing touches, incorporating smart storage solutions, and sourcing affordable yet gourmet-level appliances, builders can create a high-end kitchen look on a budget.

The first step is to know what to emulate. Today's high-end kitchen design trends are all about having space — expansive islands and countertops, designated cabinets for appliances, and, of course, plentiful room for dining and entertaining. The desire for endless space seems so relevant, in fact, that kitchens today often blend seamlessly into dining rooms and family rooms. Designer transitional kitchens like these often accomplish the feeling of luxury by focusing on certain anchor fixtures — furniture-like pieces, cabinets and areas dedicated to one function, and thoughtfully selected appliances. By giving careful attention to these aspects, a kitchen can be made to feel expensive without being expensive.

Islands that draw attention

Usually a high-end kitchen's focal point, an island needs to be both stylish and multipurpose. Material choice and focusing on interesting features are easy ways to delight a homeowner without overspending.

• Marble is a much-desired but extravagant island and countertop material, but more-affordable options can feel just as indulgent. Granite is one that's often chosen, but instead of using full slabs, consider granite tiles. When installed, they can be lined up to create a seamless surface. Quartz can also mimic the look of expensive countertops but is less costly because it's mostly manmade.
• Adding shelves to an island to store and display cookbooks, dishes and glassware doesn't have to cost much but provides a highly customized look.
• Giving the island a cost-conscious extra feature — such as a warming drawer for plates or breads, a second sink or a built-in wine rack or a wine fridge — can create that feeling of decadence homeowners seek.

Spaces that problem-solve

Personalized storage solutions — particularly ones that hide unsightly or rarely used items — and function-designated areas are kitchen trends that are both plush and practical. And it doesn't necessarily take a lot of money to create them.

• A designated "appliance garage" — a cabinet or custom drawers to house toasters, blenders, mixers and such — keeps them off the counters and out of view for a sleek, modern space.
• The same is true for waste containers. Having an enclosed cabinet either in an island or under the counters for garbage cans, recycling bins, trash compactors or composters instantly creates a high-end look.
• Mornings can be made to feel more extravagant just by having a designated coffee or tea station. Grouping together the espresso or coffee maker, hot-water kettle, mugs and accessories is an easy ambiance boost.
• Instead of bracketing the microwave above the range, consider housing it in a separate location and then installing a hood or vent system for the stove. This touch is one home chefs tend to appreciate and may be worth prioritizing. Pop a backsplash behind it, and it quickly starts to feel like a gourmet cooking station.
• Turning awkward in-between spots into places to tuck things like custom rolling units for spices or canned goods is a clever way to wow a homeowner while not taking much from the build and design budget.
• Drawers with built-in power outlets and charging stations are a solid low-cost, high-aesthetic-value way to hide all the devices and get rid of countertop clutter.

Appliances that feel custom

Few things define a high-end kitchen like customized appliances that blend professional features with premium looks. By partnering with the right brand, designers and builders can meet buyer expectations without overspending.

• To go for a built-in look, which tends to scream luxury, appliances like Samsung's Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator edges up perfectly with cabinets, giving a sleek, stylish appearance.
• A similar approach is to install a standard-depth refrigerator and then build cabinets around it. Or, if possible, create a refrigerator alcove by borrowing space from an adjacent room or closet or recess it into the wall.
• Treating appliances like statement pieces is another high-end tactic. While a simple modern look can be had by blending them in with the scenery, an innovative approach is to go bold and personal. Samsung's Bespoke suite — recognized for its versatility in "highlighting appliances instead of hiding them" — features color and finish options that let the range, microwave, dishwasher and refrigerator pop. Homebuyers can revel in a space that feels uniquely designed for them but without the high price tag.
• High-tech touches, such as a motion-sensing faucet or smart refrigerator like Samsung's Family Hub line, can easily dress up a kitchen for only a little extra cost — plus their efficiency and connectivity aspects can be very appealing to buyers.
• One unmistakable luxury-like feature is having a double oven. In-wall and other combinations, like several in Samsung's collection, may feel like extra flair, but they tend to be valuable functional pieces that can bring together a gourmet-style kitchen built on a budget.

With these things in mind — the smart use of pieces in a space, thoughtful storage and tech solutions, and luxurious but affordable appliances — creating a high-end kitchen look on a budget is within any builder's reach and can satisfy even the most discerning homebuyer.