Spanish Style Kitchen Design Tips for Southern California Homes

Spanish style kitchens embody timeless charm with their warm colors, artisan details, and rich textures. Popular across Southern California—and especially in design-forward communities like Orange County—these kitchens reflect centuries-old aesthetics while blending seamlessly with modern living.

Unlike modern kitchens that emphasize minimalism and clean lines or farmhouse styles that lean rustic and monochrome, Spanish kitchens embrace drama and character. 

Whether you’re designing a small Spanish style kitchen in a cozy bungalow or planning a grand Spanish style kitchen island in an open layout, this design radiates heritage, comfort, and artistry.

Their enduring appeal lies in how they connect indoor living with cultural storytelling. Spanish kitchens feel inviting, expressive, and perfectly suited to Orange County’s Mediterranean climate and architecture.

Spanish vs. Mediterranean vs. Hacienda Kitchens: What’s the Difference?

Although Spanish, Mediterranean, and Hacienda kitchens are often grouped together due to their shared roots and regional influences, each style carries distinct characteristics that set them apart in both form and feeling. 

Understanding the nuances can help homeowners choose the right aesthetic for their Orange County home—whether aiming for rustic warmth, coastal elegance, or traditional grandeur.

Feature	Spanish Style Kitchen	Mediterranean Kitchen	Hacienda Kitchen
Colors	Warm tones, terracotta, mustard, cobalt	Breezy blues, whites, and sea greens	Rich earth tones, muted reds, browns
Key Materials	Stucco, tile, wrought iron, clay	Stone, ceramic, light wood	Heavy wood, adobe, rough plaster
Arches & Curves	Prominent in doorways and cabinetry	Softer use, more open space	Deep arches and thick rounded structures
Lighting	Lanterns, wrought iron, vintage fixtures	Glass pendants, coastal accents	Low-hung, rustic fixtures
Overall Vibe	Historic, artistic, cozy	Airy, coastal, refined	Rustic, bold, and grounded

While the Mediterranean style Spanish style kitchen emphasizes light and openness, traditional Spanish kitchens offer more artisanal detailing and warmer tones. Meanwhile, Hacienda kitchens draw from Spanish Colonial roots with a heavier, more grounded visual language—perfect for homes that want to feel both authentic and robust.

A traditional Spanish kitchen leans toward handcrafted charm, Mediterranean feels more coastal and breezy, and Hacienda blends rural Mexican influences with a heavier rustic tone.

Key Elements of a Spanish Style Kitchen

A well-executed Spanish style kitchen design balances form, function, and feeling. Whether you’re working with a small Spanish style kitchen for your Orange County home or a large open-concept layout with a Spanish style kitchen island, these foundational elements define the look and soul of the space. 

From color choices to architectural details, each element tells a story rooted in heritage and craftsmanship.

Warm, Earthy Color Palettes

At the heart of every Spanish inspired kitchen is a rich, sun-drenched color scheme. Think terracotta, burnt orange, mustard yellow, olive green, and deep cobalt blue—shades that reflect the Mediterranean landscape. 

These tones warm up the space and give it a lived-in, welcoming feel, making them ideal for both traditional Spanish kitchens and modern Spanish kitchen updates.

Natural Materials and Textures

Spanish kitchen design favors natural, tactile materials that age beautifully over time. You’ll find stucco or plastered walls, exposed wooden beams, hand-carved cabinetry, wrought iron hardware, and stone or clay flooring. These textures create visual depth and reinforce the rustic, handcrafted charm that defines a rustic Spanish style kitchen.

Decorative Tiles & Backsplashes

Vibrant, hand-painted tiles are one of the most iconic features of a Spanish style kitchen. Used on backsplashes, stair risers, or range hoods, they bring artistry and pattern to the space. Popular choices include Talavera and Saltillo tiles in classic motifs. In a white Spanish style kitchen, colorful tilework adds contrast and interest, while in smaller layouts, it becomes a bold centerpiece.

Arches, Niches, and Curved Lines

Arched doorways, cabinet insets, and built-in wall niches soften the architecture and break up angular layouts. These elegant curves are key to distinguishing Spanish style kitchens from their modern or farmhouse counterparts. Whether framing an entry or creating a cozy alcove for decor, these details evoke the timeless feel of an old Spanish kitchen.

Rustic Lighting Fixtures

Lighting is more than functional—it’s atmospheric. Spanish-style lighting often includes wrought iron chandeliers, lantern-style pendants, and antique brass sconces. 

These fixtures bring drama and historical flair, making them ideal in both Spanish style modern kitchens and more traditional interpretations. Pair them with warm bulbs to create a romantic glow that enhances the earthy tones throughout the kitchen.

20 Best Spanish Style Kitchen Ideas for Orange County Houses

These Spanish style kitchen ideas for homes across Orange County blend artistry and tradition, ideal OC homeowners—from coastal villas to hillside bungalows. 

Whether you’re styling a modern Spanish kitchen, refreshing an old Spanish kitchen, or maximizing charm in a small Spanish style kitchen in Orange County, each of these thoughtfully curated ideas will elevate your space with warmth, character, and Mediterranean flair.

1. Hand-Painted Tile Backsplashes with Terracotta Accents

This design is rooted in tradition—think Talavera or Seville-style hand-painted tiles paired with terracotta trim. The detailed patterns add movement and storytelling, especially effective in a small Spanish style kitchen, where every inch counts. Perfect for homeowners who love bold color and artisan details.

2. Exposed Wood Beams and White Stucco Walls

A timeless contrast that embodies white Spanish style kitchen design. The dark ceiling beams ground the space, while the white plaster walls keep it light and breezy. Great for open-concept kitchens where you want to highlight both rustic heritage and California sun.

3. Arched Doorways and Cabinet Insets

Nothing says traditional Spanish kitchen like elegant arches. From the entrance to the cabinet faces, these curves soften modern layouts and invite a sense of calm. Ideal for remodels that want to retain old-world charm without sacrificing openness.

4. Wrought Iron Light Fixtures and Hardware

Heavy, sculptural iron lighting brings drama to your kitchen—especially over a Spanish style kitchen island. Pair with matching drawer pulls for a cohesive look. Best suited for homeowners who want a strong architectural statement.

5. Earth-Tone Cabinetry with Colorful Tile Detailing

A perfect balance of warmth and personality. Terracotta, olive, and sand-tone cabinets paired with accent tile strips make this idea shine in both rustic Spanish style kitchens and updated traditional layouts.

6. Built-In Niche Shelves for Pottery and Decor

Inspired by Spanish kitchen decor found in Andalusian homes, these recessed alcoves offer space to display hand-thrown pottery, painted bowls, or vintage spice jars. They work especially well in kitchens with thick plaster walls.

7. Decorative Range Hoods with Mosaic Tile Inlays

Turn your stove area into a focal point with a custom hood framed in patterned tiles. A perfect match for Spanish inspired kitchen styles that embrace symmetry and craftsmanship.

8. Statement Farmhouse Sink with Spanish-Style Apron

For a blend of form and function, this sink adds instant old-world character. Look for fireclay or copper designs with a hand-painted or embossed front panel. A beautiful touch in both modern Spanish kitchens and heritage restorations.

9. Brick or Terracotta Flooring in Herringbone Pattern

Durable, textured, and full of warmth. Herringbone brick adds visual depth underfoot and is an ideal flooring choice for high-traffic, sun-drenched homes.

10. Curved Island with Stucco Finish and Stone Countertop

This Spanish style kitchen island doubles as sculpture. The stucco base gives it a handmade feel, while natural stone provides durability. Great for entertaining and anchoring the space.

11. Antique-Style Cabinet Pulls and Knobs in Bronze

Small details, big impact. Aged bronze hardware instantly upgrades cabinetry and pairs well with wood, stone, and tile elements typical of Spanish kitchen design.

12. Natural Wood or Clay Open Shelving

Ditch the upper cabinets in favor of artisan shelves. Raw-edge wood or clay options offer storage and styling opportunities—perfect for an airy, Mediterranean style Spanish style kitchen.

13. Colorful Backsplash in Traditional Spanish Motifs

Fill your backsplash with geometric or floral Spanish tiles in rich blues, greens, and oranges. Works beautifully behind ranges or as a full accent wall in a small Spanish style kitchen.

14. Interior Arches Leading Into the Kitchen

Create a romantic transition between rooms with softly curved passageways. Arches frame the kitchen like a work of art—perfect for Spanish style modern kitchens that want architectural detail.

15. Integrated Spanish Lantern Pendants over Island

Choose lantern pendants with frosted glass and iron framing to evoke historic Spanish courtyards. A cozy finishing touch over your island or breakfast bar.

16. Statement Ceiling Medallions with Vintage Lights

Bring drama to your ceiling with ornate medallions and antique-inspired lighting. A rare but striking feature that enhances vertical space and adds elegance to old Spanish kitchens.

17. Dual-Tone Cabinets with Rustic Edge (Dark & Cream Combo)

Pair rich espresso lower cabinets with creamy uppers for depth and contrast. This look suits transitional homes that mix contemporary and Spanish kitchen ideas.

18. Glazed Tile Accent Walls for Texture & Shine

Use glossy tiles in terracotta or cobalt blue for a splash zone or feature wall. Their shine reflects light beautifully, brightening even the coziest Spanish style kitchen.

19. Warm Lighting with Vintage Glass Fixtures

Amber-hued glass sconces or pendants emit a soft, golden glow—ideal for setting a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere in Spanish inspired kitchens.

20. Wall Niches with Mosaic Tile Frames

These shallow built-ins add architectural interest while showcasing tile artistry. A thoughtful touch that reinforces the handcrafted elegance of your Spanish kitchen design.

Orange County Spanish Style Kitchen Ideas on a Budget

You don’t need a massive renovation budget to bring Spanish charm into your Orange County kitchen. With a few strategic updates, even a small Spanish style kitchen in OC can be transformed into a warm, character-rich space.

• Peel-and-stick Spanish tiles: Use them as an affordable backsplash solution to introduce traditional patterns and color.
• Painted cabinets: Refresh cabinetry with earthy tones like terracotta, sage green, or mustard yellow to echo classic Spanish kitchen decor.
• Wrought iron accents: Replace modern hardware with wrought iron pulls or add simple iron shelving brackets for a handcrafted feel.
• Open wood shelving: Use reclaimed wood or faux-finished pine to replicate the look of rustic shelving found in old Spanish kitchens.
• DIY stucco range hood: Create a focal point with a faux-plaster hood built from MDF and finished with textured paint.
• Lighting swaps: Install lantern-style pendants or vintage glass sconces to replace standard fixtures and evoke Spanish style kitchen lighting on a budget. 

These cost-effective changes can make a huge impact—especially when layered thoughtfully. Whether you’re updating a modern Spanish kitchen in Orange County or restoring a heritage home, charm doesn’t have to come at a premium.

What to Consider When Planning Spanish Style Kitchen Remodeling in Orange County

Remodeling a Spanish style kitchen in Orange County means blending timeless architecture with everyday functionality. From material choices to layout decisions, keeping the integrity of the style while updating for modern use requires thoughtful planning.

Adapting the Style to Modern Living

Today’s kitchens need to support busy lifestyles, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing charm. Integrate modern appliances behind paneled cabinetry, add smart storage solutions within traditional cabinetry, and choose durable materials that mimic natural ones—like engineered stone that resembles limestone. 

A Spanish style modern kitchen should still feel timeless, not outdated.

Local Material Sourcing in Orange County

One of the benefits of remodeling in Orange County is access to local artisans and specialty vendors. Find handcrafted Talavera tiles, reclaimed wood, and custom ironwork from nearby markets and showrooms. These locally sourced elements are key to an authentic Spanish kitchen design and often cost less than imported materials.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mixing too many styles: Combining Spanish elements with overly modern or industrial finishes can clash visually.
• Ignoring proportion: Oversized fixtures or furniture can overwhelm a small Spanish style kitchen, while undersized islands in large spaces may look unbalanced.
• Using low-quality faux finishes: Avoid plastic tiles or vinyl flooring that imitate traditional materials—opt for the real thing or convincing high-end alternatives.
  

Choosing the Right Remodeling Contractor

Spanish-style renovations require an understanding of architectural nuance, not just general construction. That’s why it’s important to work with a contractor who specializes in this aesthetic.

We recommend Laguna Bay Developing—a local team with deep experience in Spanish inspired kitchen remodeling across Orange County. They bring:

• Custom design expertise tailored to Spanish style kitchen ideas.
• A network of skilled craftsmen for tilework, ironwork, and bespoke cabinetry.
• A reputation for delivering high-end results on time and on budget.

With the right team, you can achieve a stunning, functional kitchen that blends Mediterranean style Spanish style kitchen warmth with everyday convenience.

How to Design a Spanish Style Kitchen in Orange County

Designing a Spanish style kitchen in Woodland Hills or Orange County is a creative process that blends architecture, craftsmanship, and personal expression. Whether you’re planning a new build or remodeling an old Spanish kitchen in OC, here’s how to bring your vision to life—step by step.

1. Planning Your Layout

Start with functionality. Spanish kitchens often feature open layouts with central islands, arched transitions, and ample workspace. In a small Spanish style kitchen, consider a galley or L-shape plan with open shelving to enhance visual flow.

2. Choosing Materials and Finishes

Focus on natural, timeworn textures—terracotta tile, rustic wood cabinetry, wrought iron fixtures, and plaster or stucco walls. These finishes define the soul of any Spanish kitchen design, whether you’re going for traditional or a Spanish style modern kitchen twist.

3. Finding Local Craftsmen (e.g., Tilework, Ironwork)

Look for local artisans in Orange County who specialize in hand-painted tiles, iron railings, and carved woodwork. Their expertise brings authenticity to every detail of your Spanish inspired kitchen.

4. Blending Modern Functionality with Old-World Beauty

Conceal modern appliances with custom cabinet panels, integrate smart storage within traditional millwork, and use LED lighting inside rustic fixtures. This balance allows your modern Spanish kitchen in OC to perform without losing its charm.

Why Work with Laguna Bay Developing

For a seamless experience, partner with experts in Spanish-style architecture. Laguna Bay Developing offers:

• Custom design expertise: Every layout and detail is crafted to match your home’s flow and your lifestyle.
• Knowledge of Spanish-style architecture: From arches to adobe textures, they know how to build it right.
• Experience with high-end Orange County clients: They understand the expectations of discerning homeowners—and consistently exceed them.
  

Decorating Ideas for Your Spanish Style Kitchen in Orange County

Thoughtful decor is what transforms a kitchen from functional to unforgettable. Here are some easy, high-impact ways to decorate your Spanish style kitchen in OC—from DIY touches to curated accents.

Terracotta & Earth-Inspired Color Palettes

Use warm, Mediterranean tones to create a grounded, sunlit vibe. Consider:

• Burnt orange walls or tile accents
• Clay-colored cabinets
• Deep cobalt backsplashes
• Olive green textiles or upholstery
  

These hues look beautiful in both large kitchens and small Spanish style kitchens, where color adds depth without clutter.

Mixing Vintage Finds with Artisan Touches

Blend old with new by incorporating:

• Handcrafted ceramic bowls or canisters.
• Aged wood stools or benches.
• Vintage wrought iron chandeliers or wall sconces.
  

These elements work especially well in Spanish style modern kitchens, adding texture without disrupting clean lines.

Organic Materials & Old-World Finishes

For a truly timeless feel, decorate with:

• Exposed ceiling beams or faux wood trims.
• Plaster-finished walls or stucco-textured hoods.
• Patterned tile runners or rustic clay pots.
  

These decor ideas echo the authenticity of traditional Spanish kitchens and align beautifully with Orange County’s Mediterranean homes.

Create Your Dream Spanish Kitchen with Laguna Bay Developing

Whether you’re starting from scratch or restoring an old Spanish kitchen in Woodland Hills or Orange County, your dream kitchen deserves the right vision—and the right team. Laguna Bay Developing brings decades of experience designing Spanish style kitchens in Orange County that are elegant, functional, and true to their architectural roots.

From selecting the perfect tiles to customizing your Spanish style kitchen island, they handle every detail with care. Serving clients across Orange County, Laguna Bay Developing specializes in blending timeless aesthetics with modern comfort.

Let us help you transform your kitchen into a warm, inviting masterpiece.

FAQ

What defines a Spanish style kitchen?

Key elements include hand-painted tiles, arched doorways, wrought iron fixtures, natural wood, and earthy color palettes. The design emphasizes craftsmanship, warmth, and old-world charm.

Is Spanish kitchen style suitable for modern homes?

Yes! Spanish style modern kitchens blend traditional textures with modern layouts, hidden appliances, and clean finishes, making them ideal for today’s lifestyles.

How much does it cost to remodel a Spanish style kitchen in Orange County?

Costs can range from $30,000 for basic updates to $150,000+ for high-end custom remodels, depending on the scope, finishes, and craftsmanship involved.

Can I mix Spanish style with other kitchen trends?

Absolutely. Spanish style pairs well with Mediterranean, coastal, farmhouse, and even minimalist influences. The key is balance—use Spanish elements as highlights.

Do I need a specialist for a Spanish-style remodel?

Yes. The architectural nuances require expertise. Hiring a specialist like Laguna Bay Developing ensures historical accuracy and high-quality execution.

Which colors are ideal for a Spanish-style kitchen?

Burnt orange, mustard yellow, clay, cobalt blue, olive green, ivory, and dark wood tones are staples in Spanish kitchen design.

What design elements are essential in Spanish Colonial kitchens?

Arched doorways, textured plaster walls, Talavera tile, iron lighting, open shelving, and rustic wood beams define Spanish Colonial style kitchens.