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Traditional kitchens are basically influenced by old American and European designs of the 1700s, 1800s and 1900s. The area should depict a very formal and classy appearance while being equally functional as well. When designing a traditional kitchen, you have more room for resourcefulness since you’re free to use and combine pieces belonging in those eras.
The Different Styles
There are so many styles to choose from. Victorian is one of the most popular designs which incorporate intricate and sophisticated pieces. Moulding and trimming are basic including the use of dark and polished wood. The main idea of a traditional Victorian kitchen is to provide elegance. Arch doors, raised panels and wooden cabinet carvings are the norm plus other metal and brass works featured in drawer and cabinet handles and knobs.
Traditional Georgian is another formal design which uses a lot of wood like mahogany, oak and walnut. Cabinets, square panel raise doors, moulding, counters and furniture should most likely have wooden accents. Heavy crown moulding is used as well as high cabinets that reach the ceiling. Light fixtures in this design are properly placed to compliment the woodwork.
Other traditional designs include Edwardian, Regency, Neoclassical, Italianate, American, Shaker and Colonial. These designs basically incorporate woodwork as evidenced by mahogany or walnut cabinetry and raised panel cabinet doors. Crown and rope mouldings and other trims are also ideal. You can add antique items and appliances to add more drama. Hanging antique lamps are great as well as wall panels with hidden yellow lights. A modern fusion would use yellow ceiling lights. Window frames also present polished woodwork.
Some of the items in a traditional kitchen would seem built-in because of the generous use of mahogany, cherry or walnut. Breakfast counters, island tops and sinks will most likely have wooden trims. The counters may be marble on top. As for accents, black is allowed but is not very common in traditional Georgian kitchens. Colors are generally chosen to compliment the woodwork so neutral tones like white, beige or cream are ideal.
Some traditional kitchens are purely made of oak. These should not be mistaken for country however. The Shaker style is rather different since it is bolder and solid compared to country. Oak kitchens like to use a lot of dark and heavy wood with very minimal use of other materials like marble and slate. Oak is almost always polished for a very clean and classic appearance.
Aside from Wood
Stainless steel faucets, pans, ovens, pots and utensils will compliment the wood further. Sinks may be made of slate or stone. The floor is typically hardwood but you can also choose sandstone, marble or solid white or black tiles. For decors, a couple of antique pieces will do, preferably brass, metal or wood. Hanging a single white towel over the oven handle is enough to create a dramatic effect. Traditional kitchens aim for a classic and clean appearance so all utensils and kitchen items may have to be stored in drawers and cabinets.
Another modern style is adding a skylight which makes the room come to life in the morning and at midday. Look for antique-looking appliances. A black refrigerator will look better. Try to stick to one color when choosing appliances. One or two green plants will neutralize the earth tones more experiment which works.
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