5 Elements of a Traditional Kitchen

While modern interiors have taken the design world by storm in recent years, traditional kitchens remain as popular as ever. The traditional style is classy, charming, and sophisticated. You can rest assured that if you remodel your kitchen using classic design elements, it will never go out of fashion. Consider these five characteristics of a traditional kitchen to help you decide if it’s the right look for you.

Decorative Elements

One of the most noticeable aspects of a traditional kitchen is that it incorporates purely decorative elements. This differs from minimalist kitchens that focus on clean lines and sharp edges. Ornaments and decorations lend a personal touch, which many homeowners love.

In a classic kitchen, you are sure to find:

• Furniture-style cabinets with raised or recessed door panels
• Glass cabinets doors or open shelving
• Ornate cabinet handles and drawer pulls
• Elegant crown molding and detailed trim work
• Old-world columns, pillars, and brackets
• Ogee-edged countertops
• Ornamental hood vents
• Vintage-inspired fixtures, hardware, and appliances

Natural Materials

While you’re likely to spot plenty of concrete, glass, and laminate in a modern setting, traditional kitchens take a more natural approach. Many people feel this gives their home a warmer, more comfortable aesthetic. Depending on the precise finish, natural materials can create either a formal or casual effect.

Here are some of the most common natural materials to use in a traditional kitchen:

• Granite, marble, soapstone, or quartz countertops
• Hardwood, ceramic tile, or patterned stone flooring
• Stained wood or white-painted cabinetry (sometimes found in the same kitchen)
• Weathered, wood-beam ceilings
• Antiqued metal elements
• Leather accents

Neutral Colors

A color scheme comprised of classic, muted hues goes with the natural materials found in a traditional kitchen. Sometimes, wood elements are also distressed to lend a timeless and welcoming appearance to the room. Matte finishes are also far more likely than glossy veneers. For a more transitional look, consider adding a pop of color as a focal point.

Some popular color palettes for classic kitchens include:

• White, chocolate brown, and silver
• Cream, leather brown, and espresso
• Light gray, coffee brown, and Tuscany orange
• Cream, two-tone gray, and a bold accent color (such as the red seen here)

Practical Backsplashes

While a modern design may incorporate a colorful backsplash that stands out from everything else in the kitchen, traditional tiling tends to be more subtle. Still, that doesn’t mean the backsplash must be dull or uninspired.

In some designs, the tiles blend into the backdrop, barely calling attention to themselves. Other times, the backsplash serves as a personalized focal point, as seen here. The custom tiles borrow colors and textures from different parts of the kitchen. For the best results, work with a kitchen design professional when designing a backsplash.

Stylish Light Fixtures

Some kitchen light fixtures are interchangeable between modern and classic settings. Others are distinctly traditional, such as the crystal chandelier seen here. Hanging pendants are most often installed as task lighting above the island or another primary work surface. Then, recessed lights are a popular option for general lighting. Having one or more windows is also a must to bathe the room in natural light and provide a view of the exterior.

If these elements of a traditional kitchen speak to you, let the design-build team at Jack Rosen Custom Kitchens bring it to life in your home! Contact us online or call 301-363-4064 for a free kitchen renovation consultation today. We have served the MD, DC, and VA areas for over 30 years.