In terms of style, function and utility, the modern kitchen is head and shoulders above its older counterparts. Nowadays, there are so many amazing space saving solutions, so many creative design features, it becomes easy to forget how badly designed the kitchens of bygone eras could be.
But there are some features of older kitchens that have stood the test of time and for good reason. Perhaps it's a sense of nostalgia that these features provide, a timeless design that represents an era perfectly, or simply a functional design feature that simply cannot be improved upon. However, most people would agree that it is a stylish blend of the old and the new that really makes a kitchen stand out from the crowd.
But there are some features of older kitchens that have stood the test of time and for good reason. Perhaps it's a sense of nostalgia that these features provide, a timeless design that represents an era perfectly, or simply a functional design feature that simply cannot be improved upon. However, most people would agree that it is a stylish blend of the old and the new that really makes a kitchen stand out from the crowd.
If you are considering the currently favoured classic country kitchen, but with a modern twist, there are a few rules of thumb to keep in mind. Two of the fundamentals of a classic kitchen are: keep your traditional accessories on show, whilst keeping any modern gadgets out of sight (but within easy reach); and natural finishes and painted wood surfaces always work well, and will give the kitchen an inviting feel.
But what traditional features still have a place in the modern kitchen? And what modern features combine best with a traditional style?
But what traditional features still have a place in the modern kitchen? And what modern features combine best with a traditional style?
Farmhouse Sinks
The farmhouse (butler or Belfast) sink has come very much into vogue in recent times, as the country kitchen style has grown in popularity. This type of sink is always ceramic, rectangular with rounded corners. The farmhouse style works well in an enormous range of kitchens - Shaker, Victorian, Georgian and many more. But if it is well used, the farmhouse can add a touch of class to a modern designs, if it is well suited to its surroundings.
Wooden Cabinetry
Despite a huge array of material choices available when choosing a kitchen, very few can create the authentic look of a country kitchen without compromising on durability. There are a huge array of different timbers that can be used to create the kitchen of choice, but generally speaking oak is one of the most popular allowing for a consistent colour without the need for excessive staining.
Wooden Floorboards
Wooden floorboards can make the largest of rooms seem cosy and homely. However, in the 1990s, the black and white kitchen became hugely popular. This led to tiles becoming a common type of flooring for kitchens but tiles can seem very clinical and cold, whereas floorboards naturally add warmth and character. However even if your period floorboards are in good condition, it may be beneficial to overlay them with a more modern hardwood floorboard in order to ensure maximum insulation and comfort.
It's hard to think of a situation where wood could not be utilised to great effect in a modern kitchen. Current techniques allow a variety of woods to be dyed almost any colour, and durability is rarely an issue. Shop around, and you're sure to find a style that suits your preferences, your property and your budget.
Island Units
Whereas kitchen tables used to be the common focal point of the traditional kitchen, nowadays the island unit is becoming a close rival. These islands provide extra workspace, an area where guests and family members can gather and are often filled with ingenious space saving solutions such as wine racks, fridges, hidden drawers and cabinets.
But these units don't have to be enormous, utilitarian granite blocks. Increasing numbers of people are choosing an island unit, but designed in a period style, with ornate wooden pilasters and compartments for utensils and chopping boards. Some households choose an oversized worktop with a cantilever effect to allow the island to also be used as a breakfast bar, and therefore replacing the requirement for the kitchen table altogether. Where possible though, an island unit and a kitchen table will both be accommodated in the kitchen design.
Unless you are really trying to a achieve a wholly period or retro look in your home as you may find in a museum, all the so called €period' kitchens are a mix of the old and the new. A good kitchen designer will be able to advise you about which features you should include to create an authentic look, without compromising on the more modern touches which in the end make the kitchen a more functional and practical space, in which to enjoy both cooking and entertaining.
The farmhouse (butler or Belfast) sink has come very much into vogue in recent times, as the country kitchen style has grown in popularity. This type of sink is always ceramic, rectangular with rounded corners. The farmhouse style works well in an enormous range of kitchens - Shaker, Victorian, Georgian and many more. But if it is well used, the farmhouse can add a touch of class to a modern designs, if it is well suited to its surroundings.
Wooden Cabinetry
Despite a huge array of material choices available when choosing a kitchen, very few can create the authentic look of a country kitchen without compromising on durability. There are a huge array of different timbers that can be used to create the kitchen of choice, but generally speaking oak is one of the most popular allowing for a consistent colour without the need for excessive staining.
Wooden Floorboards
Wooden floorboards can make the largest of rooms seem cosy and homely. However, in the 1990s, the black and white kitchen became hugely popular. This led to tiles becoming a common type of flooring for kitchens but tiles can seem very clinical and cold, whereas floorboards naturally add warmth and character. However even if your period floorboards are in good condition, it may be beneficial to overlay them with a more modern hardwood floorboard in order to ensure maximum insulation and comfort.
It's hard to think of a situation where wood could not be utilised to great effect in a modern kitchen. Current techniques allow a variety of woods to be dyed almost any colour, and durability is rarely an issue. Shop around, and you're sure to find a style that suits your preferences, your property and your budget.
Island Units
Whereas kitchen tables used to be the common focal point of the traditional kitchen, nowadays the island unit is becoming a close rival. These islands provide extra workspace, an area where guests and family members can gather and are often filled with ingenious space saving solutions such as wine racks, fridges, hidden drawers and cabinets.
But these units don't have to be enormous, utilitarian granite blocks. Increasing numbers of people are choosing an island unit, but designed in a period style, with ornate wooden pilasters and compartments for utensils and chopping boards. Some households choose an oversized worktop with a cantilever effect to allow the island to also be used as a breakfast bar, and therefore replacing the requirement for the kitchen table altogether. Where possible though, an island unit and a kitchen table will both be accommodated in the kitchen design.
Unless you are really trying to a achieve a wholly period or retro look in your home as you may find in a museum, all the so called €period' kitchens are a mix of the old and the new. A good kitchen designer will be able to advise you about which features you should include to create an authentic look, without compromising on the more modern touches which in the end make the kitchen a more functional and practical space, in which to enjoy both cooking and entertaining.
Blending the old and new in kitchen design
Reviewed by pada mama
Published :
Rating : 4.5
Published :
Rating : 4.5
