Features of traditional kitchen design

A traditional kitchen can feature a number of elements, including:

• Beaded and
  panelled cabinets
• Soft or
  rich colours
• Glass-fronted
  doors
• Ornate
  detailing
• Wood

While contemporary styles may feature a smooth, shiny gloss finish and a classic style could include a simpler, shaker style of door, when creating a traditional look, you can choose from a wide range of raised panel doors.

You are also likely to want to integrate any appliances into your room behind your kitchen cabinet doors so that your modern appliances do not feature too prominently in your traditional design.

Painted cabinetry often lends itself to a traditional style as you can tailor the paint finish you choose, to the age of your property. For example, Victorian homes traditionally featured rich, dark hues while Georgian kitchens favoured matt finishes in a range of shades. It’s a matter of personal preference whether you want to be completely authentic to the age of your home, or whether you want to add a more contemporary feel to your traditional styling. You could always opt for paler, neutral shades to bring light and freshness into your design.

Glass front cabinets are a key element of traditional design, and you may wish to choose a mixture of panelled and glass-front cabinets so you can show off your favourite crockery or family heirlooms as part of your overall look. You could also think about bringing wood into your kitchen design or combining a number of styles for a look which transcends time and trends, while exuding traditional warmth. You could also consider using different widths in different parts of your kitchen. Mixing styles can give you the equivalent feel of collecting furniture and antiques over time.

Detailing such as farmhouse sinks are also a popular option in traditional kitchens, as well as in country styles. Meanwhile, traditional countertop materials such as marble, granite, quartz and wood provide a stylish finishing touch.

Traditional kitchens are really defined by the little details, from the style of the panelling on your doors to the handles and colours you choose. Combining these elements in a way which appeals to you and suits your lifestyle and your home can give you a traditional kitchen which will stand the test of time.