Inspire Your Kitchen Remodel with Stunning Range Hood Photos

Dreaming up your perfect kitchen remodel? One element that can make a major style statement is your range hood. Far from an afterthought, a beautiful, functional range hood can become the focal point of your new kitchen design.

Range hoods have come a long way from the buzzing, clunky models of decades past. Today there are range hood styles to match any kitchen aesthetic - from sleek and modern to traditionally ornate. What they all have in common is their importance in properly ventilating cooking fumes and smoke from the cooktop below.

Types of Range Hoods

Island Range Hoods

Island range hoods are installed directly over a kitchen island cooktop to provide ventilation for the stovetop. Unlike wall-mounted range hoods, island range hoods don't have to vent to the outside - though they certainly can. Some models feature blowers and filtration systems to recirculate air back into the kitchen.

The major benefit of an island range hood is the strong visual statement it makes as a focal point over the kitchen island. An island range hood tends to make a bolder design impact compared to a wall or under-cabinet model. Island range hoods also provide more smoke and fume coverage since they are centered over the cooktop surface.

When it comes to style, the choices are endless. Rectangular chimney hoods are a popular island range hood option. Chimney hoods come in stainless steel for a sleek modern look or in colored finishes like black, white, or copper for a more dramatic impact. Contemporary pyramid-shaped island hoods are also on-trend choices, as well as models with recessed lighting to provide both task lighting and ambiance.

Downdraft Range Hoods

Unlike traditional range hoods mounted overhead, downdraft range hoods pull cooking fumes down through vents built right into the countertop surface. Downdraft range hoods are also called pop-up range hoods because they are concealed below the counter when not in use, then pop up when activated to pull in and vent smoke and fumes.

One major advantage of a downdraft range hood is that it saves space. Downdraft models are integrated into the counter and flush with the surface when inactive. This provides a clean, streamlined look and preserves precious overhead space below kitchen cabinets. For kitchen islands and other open areas without overhead cabinets, a downdraft hood keeps sightlines free of bulky overhead hoods.

Downdraft range hood designs range from minimalist vents that are nearly invisible when closed, to models with retractable chimneys that extend upwards several inches when opened. High-end downdraft range hoods allow you to customize the finish to seamlessly match your countertops.

Wall Mount Range Hoods

Wall mount range hoods do exactly as their name implies - they mount directly to the wall behind a cooktop or range rather than hanging from the overhead cabinets. Wall mounting maximizes space by keeping the space under cabinets open and free of ventilation hoods.

Wall-mounted range hoods are also great for creating a focal point on the wall and making a design statement. They can act as eye-catching centerpieces on an exposed brick or tile backsplash. Wall mount range hoods come in horizontal or vertical orientations and a multitude of sizes, finishes, and detailing to perfectly complement the kitchen.

Besides the space-saving benefits, wall-mounted range hoods are typically easier to duct and vent since they align with exterior walls. That makes wall mounting ideal for powerful pro-style range hoods designed for serious cooking. Wall mount range hoods can also be ductless if an exterior vent is not possible.

Under Cabinet Range Hoods

Under cabinet range hoods are mounted directly below kitchen wall cabinets, centered over the cooktop. They are designed specifically to provide ventilation while saving space and maintaining a subtle integrated look.

Since under cabinet range hoods don't require overhead space, they are a great choice in kitchens with low headroom. Their positioning close to the cooking surface makes them well-suited for quickly capturing steam, smoke, and fumes from the cooktop below. Their lower profile makes under cabinet hoods ideal when you want ventilation without dominating the kitchen.

Wrapping under cabinet range hoods in the same finish as the cabinets creates a seamless built-in look. Higher end models allow you to customize the width and finish to perfectly integrate into your cabinetry design. While typically designed for a subtle look, some contemporary under cabinet hoods make a bold style statement with unique shapes, accents, and details.

Key Considerations

Size and Coverage

One of the most important factors in choosing a range hood is making sure it is powerful enough to properly ventilate your cooktop. Hoods are measured by CFM (cubic feet per minute) ratings that indicate the amount of air ventilated. A good rule of thumb is your range hood CFM should be equal to or greater than the BTU output of your cooktop or range.

Noise Level

Range hoods employ internal blowers and fans that move air, so noise is a consideration. Compare decibel ratings when shopping for range hoods. Look for models with features like multiple fan speeds, quiet modes, and damping technologies that reduce vibration and noise.

Venting

Determine whether you need an exterior-venting range hood or if a ductless recirculating model will meet your needs. Ducted range hoods require professional installation but remove smoke, grease, and odors from the kitchen. Ductless models filter and recirculate air but may not be as effective for serious cooking.

Kitchen Style

Choose a range hood style, finish, and features that align with your overall kitchen design, whether modern and sleek or traditional. Integrated range hoods disappear seamlessly into cabinetry. Statement pieces create drama against tile or stone backsplashes. Consider coordinates like cabinet hardware and light fixture finishes.

Stunning Range Hood Inspiration

Now that we've covered the range hood landscape, it's time for the fun part - drooling over gorgeous kitchen photo inspiration! Here are some stunning ways to make your range hood the star of your kitchen remodel.

This contemporary kitchen stuns with a geometric slate and marble backsplash, statement-making brass hood, and an eclectic mix of modern and antique-inspired kitchen cabinets. The bold backsplash pattern draws the eye upwards to the gorgeous hood focal point.

For a more subtle statement, check out this kitchen featuring a streamlined custom hood in matching cabinetry wood tone. The long horizontal hood provides both drama and seamless integration into the transitional kitchen design.

Here a minimalist black extendable downdraft hood pops up from the sleek white quartz island countertop. When not in use, the discreet downdraft vent virtually disappears for a clean modern look.

This luxurious kitchen island with marble countertop and apron-front sink is topped by an eye-catching brass and black range hood. The mixed metals and materials create brilliant contrast against the navy kitchen cabinetry.

Your kitchen remodel is the perfect opportunity to upgrade both the form and function of your range hood. Today's styles go far beyond basic ventilation to make a bold style statement. Use the inspiration from gorgeous kitchen photos to find your perfect range hood from minimalist to ultra-modern. Your hood will quickly become the shining star of your new kitchen!