Your kitchen is the hub of creativity, conversation, and family life—but not all chic designs make cooking easier. In fact, some stylish layouts and trendy features can transform your culinary haven into a frustrating obstacle course. From awkwardly placed islands and cold, sterile lighting to decorative but impractical cabinetry, these nine design pitfalls might look good in glossy magazines but add unnecessary friction to your daily routine. This article explores how designer-approved style can sometimes undercut function—and what to watch out for before your dream kitchen becomes, well, a chore.