St. Charles of New York has been fashioning dream kitchens for eight decades. At the helm of creative and architectural design is Karen Williams, who says that over 36 years with the company, no two days have ever been the same. “In order to design a kitchen that makes a statement, I must first understand the client’s lifestyle and needs, and there is always a wish list that I try to accommodate,” she says. The most fundamental element, she says, is flow, and that will ultimately inform the design elements of the space. Overall, Williams’s largest piece of advice is to not follow trends but go with what you love. “Kitchens should be inviting and true multipurpose rooms,” she says. Continue on for her tips to create a kitchen that is unique but will also stand the test of time.

Backsplash and countertops

“An unexpected element that I like to incorporate is a full slab of marble running behind the range and through to the back of the cabinet,” she says. The single slab, as opposed to marble tiles, provides drama but can also be hard to implement. For countertops, Williams relishes using slabs with semiprecious stones to create a wow factor. “This is a great area to personalize your kitchen with a fun color or pattern.”

Hoods

“This is a very strong element in any kitchen. I like to make them memorable both in size and material. Try using a combination of metals in both polished and satin finishes,” Williams advises. “Alternatively, if a large-scale hood does not work with the proportion of the room, make it disappear by concealing the elements in marble or a tile arch.”

Drawer pulls

“I try to use hardware as statement pieces. It’s the jewelry you put on to complete the look.”

Lighting

“This is more important than people realize,” she says. “Use something you love that can reference the trends but be changed out if and when the trend passes. This is easy to do with lighting, backsplashes, hardware, and paint colors.” One of her specialties, she says, is lighting exotic stone slabs from underneath.

Hidden elements

In the past, Williams has stashed appliances behind a set of custom French doors, tucked a pullout banquette into an island, devised pullout marble pantries, and concealed outlets. “I love designing in a creative and unique way to incorporate the fundamental necessities of the kitchen,” she says.

Cabinet materials

“Believe it or not, the cabinetry is one of the last items to go in a kitchen. Of the many choices to pick from, try using metal or mirrored finishes to glamorize the kitchen.”

RELATED: Get more kitchen renovations tips and ideas from AD .