If you happen to wake up at 3 AM one night, head to the bathroom, and suddenly feel like your kitchen could use a change as you pass by, you’re probably not the only one. The number of individuals who give careful consideration to their kitchen design has markedly increased in recent years as kitchens have evolved from mere cooking spaces to central hubs of the home. This shift in function has led homeowners to invest more time and thought in their kitchen style, refusing to settle for anything that’s not aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.
With an abundance of styles to choose from, you might find it overwhelming to find one that truly captures your vision and space. Luckily for you, we’re going to take you on a little journey through the most popular kitchen designs, showcasing the unique features of each style while letting you decide what’s the perfect fit for your space.
Traditional kitchens
Suppose you’re not really enthusiastic about the ephemeral nature of trends and identify yourself as an individual with classic tastes. In that case, traditional kitchens might be the ideal choice for you, as they offer timeless elegance and enduring style. The traditional kitchen design draws its inspiration from the homes of the 18th and 19th centuries, a time when quality and class were a priority, featuring sophisticated decorations and high-quality materials such as wood, stone, granite, marble, and ceramic.
The colour palette is predominantly inspired by nature, which is why you’ll find an abundance of earthy tones like creamy whites, terra cotta, bronze, and gold mixed with calm blues and vibrant greens, ultimately creating a warm, grounded atmosphere throughout the space. The statement element in this design is the furniture-style cabinetry due to its intricate detailing and elegant finishes. It typically features four main types of doors: raised panel, flat panel, shaker, and glass-front.
The traditional kitchen design effortlessly embodies quiet luxury where meticulously crafted coffered ceilings, carefully polished stone surfaces, columns, and wainscoting converge to create a space that exudes sophistication without ostentation.
Contemporary kitchens
The shift from traditional to contemporary may appear sudden at first, yet this is precisely what makes kitchen designs so captivating – their remarkable versatility and ability to surprise. If you’re someone who effortlessly adapts to changing trends, contemporary kitchen design might be the perfect fit for you, as this style is inherently fluid, constantly evolving in response to current changes, allowing it to remain fresh and relevant with each passing year. Contemporary kitchens wholeheartedly embrace trends in technology, materials, patterns, and finishes.
Many people associate this style with minimalism due to its minimal emphasis on ornate cabinetry and architecture. However, today’s contemporary kitchen often carries more drama than its modern counterpart, as it features daring contrasts and eye-catching textures. Besides the minimalist colour palette everybody is already used to, there are plenty of other options to choose from, such as matte black, red, turquoise, lime green, tangerine, and brown.
As for décor, contemporary design is far from restrictive, allowing for a wide range of personal expression. You can either make a bold statement with pendant lights or a dramatic chandelier or consider adding floor-to-ceiling windows for the greatest impact. As long as you maintain a cohesive and stylish appearance, everything’s accepted.
Modern kitchens
Modern kitchens can serve as a meeting point between traditional and contemporary kitchens. You, as many people, might have used the meaning of modern and contemporary interchangeably, but in fact, they are two different styles. Modern style traces its origins to the early 20th century, emerging out of a desire to break away from ornate traditions and instead celebrate minimalism and functionality. Its design elements are inspired by the Bauhaus movement, emphasizing sleek surfaces, neutral colours, straight lines, and natural light.
Unlike contemporary kitchens, where you can generously incorporate triangles and rectangles into your design, horizontal lines are crucial in any modern kitchen regarding backsplashes, floor, and tiles. As we’ve said before, this style underscores functionality; thereby, it features large kitchen islands, extra storage space, and layered lighting. The colour palette may vary, yet within lies a collection of striking and visually captivating combinations, each offering its unique blend of contrast and harmony. Here are some colour ideas you’ll absolutely love for a modern kitchen:
- Emerald Green + White + Gold
- Powder Blue + Black + White
- Gray-Green + Dark Wood + Canary Yellow
- White + Violet + Charcoal
- Apple Green + Cherry Red + Blue
Cottage kitchens
Cottage kitchens, where vintage and contemporary blend at their finest, are kitchens that mix traditional and farmhouse elements, infusing them with a subtle, romantic charm. This evokes a sense of nostalgia, harking back to simpler times when good quality and taste weren’t tied to brands and prices. The cottage palette is generally light and airy, having cosy beige, delicate lace white, soft floral, rich amber, golden yellows, greens, creams, and vivid blues as core colours. It often incorporates open shelving as it moves away from the misconception that kitchens have to be obsessively neat and organized to look attractive. Open shelving creates a more airy, accessible feel while showcasing functional items or decorative pieces in a casual, inviting way.
Moreover, farmhouse sinks are a key feature of cottage kitchens. They evoke classical beauty and practicality, featuring deep, broad basins that make everyday tasks like washing dishes and prepping ingredients easier. Cottage kitchens usually feature wooden surfaces such as countertops, cabinetry, and flooring, complemented by exposed ceiling beams, which create a warm and traditional feel.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer sleek modern lines, rustic charm, or timeless elegance, there must be a design that perfectly suits your style and preferences. The possibilities are endless, as you can even blend two different styles and create a kitchen that’s uniquely yours. Take time to assess colour schemes, materials, and textures, ensuring they complement each other and create a cohesive, balanced look. We wish you the best of luck!
