Classic kitchens are defined by their details, and creating eye-catching details is not as simple as designing a kitchen table. Whether old world or Mediterranean in style, classic kitchen models share the same basic elements.
Here are 15 details to help you create a classic kitchen decor in your home:
Kitchen Table Set
1. Architectural details: Classic kitchen decor focuses on details in every area. There is decoration or ornamentation everywhere you look, but the best classic kitchens are not cluttered and offer a layered look. Speaking of details, classic kitchens have it all: arches, moldings, ceiling beams, framed and embossed panel cabinets, a special molding frame, chandeliers, furniture-style cabinets, and, of course, kitchen table legs. Notice how each area is detailed: the curved legs of the table, the dark wood panel likely concealing a refrigerator, the shape and pattern of the custom molding frame. And all of this is in addition to raised panels, built-in cabinets, and box-section beam ceilings.
Built-in Cabinet Models
2. Built-in or framed cabinets: Cabinet design has a significant impact on the appearance of a kitchen. Fully laminated or frameless cabinets are associated with a more contemporary cabinet design – the door covers the frame of the cabinet, and you cannot see any exposed hinges. Built-in or framed cabinets are more commonly associated with European-style cabinets. In this type of configuration, you can see the frames of the doors; the doors and drawers are flush with this frame. Additionally, the exposed hinges on these types of cabinet doors are often silver, smooth bronze, or antique brass.
3. Patinated and antique cabinet finishes: Classic kitchen cabinets often feature patinated or distressed cabinet finishes to achieve an old and weathered appearance. Whether you opt for antique white or a colorful finish like the table in the image, a touch of patina, aging, and rust can be added. However, be cautious. Some antique finishes may appear fake. Therefore, ensure that the furniture maker has samples for your approval before placing an order.
4. Curved doors: In modern kitchens, you’ll see flat panel doors; in classic kitchens, you’ll see more ornamentation. Curved doors come in many different styles, and the shadow lines created by this extra detail are a hallmark of classic kitchens. Discuss your options with your cabinetmaker.
5. Mixed cover styles and coatings: Traditional kitchens often use multiple coatings. Sometimes, for example, you can see different colors and styles around a table and other decorations. You don’t have to limit yourself to just two differences; don’t hesitate to mix a long cabinet with natural stained wood tones. Even a cabinet piece resembling a breakfast bar or pantry can be made in a third or fourth color. Mixed finishes give classic kitchens a “time-worn” feel.
6. Decorative cabinet door accents: In classic kitchen designs, there are endless detail options for cabinets: sloped outer-edged glass, antique glass, dozens of different arrangements of wooden molding, or the metal grille accents shown in this kitchen. Even in some classic kitchens, different options are used in different sections.
7. Decorative molds and corner pieces: Keeping in mind that there is more to explore, you can add decorative elements such as carved corner pieces or supports and apply them between cabinets using the mold method.
8. Architectural details that can be applied to cabinets: In this kitchen, in addition to the architectural surroundings that draw your eye to the focal point, you will see legs on the base cabinets of the sink wall. You may also notice that the cabinets on either side of the sink base cabinets have a different depth—these undulating depths add visual appeal. Classic kitchens use details such as table legs and columns, furniture-style baseboards that make the cabinets appear to be standing upright, and sometimes special wooden hood frames that resemble a fireplace surround. All of these details are layered on top of each other to transform a kitchen into a full-fledged classic kitchen.
This kitchen showcases some of these architectural elements: hood frame, columns on the table, furniture skirting, and more.
9. Farmhouse-style sinks are another hallmark of classic kitchens. The old-fashioned, handcrafted character of these sinks appeals to a wide audience.
10. Luxury countertop materials: Calacatta and Statuary marble, walnut cutting boards, quartzite, and light-colored granites are popular choices for classic kitchen countertops. While marble requires more maintenance, it continues to attract people with its classic, timeless appeal. If you prefer a material that requires easier maintenance, there are many quartz materials that mimic the look of marble and limestone. While polished stone occasionally appears, honed or stain-resistant finishes on countertops generally have a more traditional appearance.
11. Ornate and decorative lighting: Classic kitchens boast crystal or brass chandeliers, lantern-style lights (the kind of lighting you would expect to see in a dining room rather than a kitchen). This trend, which has persisted since the kitchens of the past that are no longer in use today, is certainly less classic in style, but this type of lighting makes them resemble living rooms more than spaces intended for kitchen use.
12. Custom metal, plaster, and stone hoods: As an alternative to wood-framed and fireplace-style hoods, classic kitchens often feature ornate metal hoods, custom-shaped plaster hoods with molds and marble, and even carved stone hoods. Plaster hoods are often ornate but heavier than wood. This style works wonderfully when you don’t have wooden cabinets next to the hood, as the plaster hood looks even better.
13. Countertop niches and ledges: Taking this extra step with small, unexpected details is what brings out the classic kitchen feel.
The niches behind the oven are one such detail. Niches adjacent to the hood are another solution.
14. Furniture-style tall cabinets: Cabinets that don’t look like cabinets are very popular in classic kitchens. The stained wood cabinet on the left may be hiding a pantry or refrigerator.
15. Cage-style cabinets: Cage-style cabinets are typically found in dining room furniture but have found their place in many classic kitchens. The additional storage space they provide on the countertop is one of the things homeowners won’t want to miss out on.
