What’s Your Kitchen Style?
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Before starting a kitchen remodeling project, think about your style. Are you a traditionalist who likes lots of detailing or a contemporary fan who likes sleek kitchen cabinets and cabinet hardware?
Kitchen Remodeling for Style and Taste
Kitchens are designed for a variety of styles and tastes. The two general categories are traditional and contemporary, but there also are a range of subcategories and variations. Among the common styles are:- Traditional - has raised panel kitchen cabinets, possibly with arches and grooved details, a dressy range hood, and granite countertops.
- Contemporary - simple kitchen cabinet style with flat panels, perhaps made from plastic laminate, lacquer, or wood veneer. Instead of a rich cherry wood, the cabinets might be a white lacquer.
- French Country - the kitchen has ornate molding, polished granite floors, tile or granite countertops, and rich details in the toe kick or cabinet crown area.
- English Country - features bead board ceiling, glass mullion cabinet doors and some cabinets without doors for open display of china or knick knacks.
- Shaker - has flat kitchen cabinet panels that are flush with the cabinet frame and have an inset area in the center.
- Arts and Crafts - inspired from 1920s-era architecture, this style features natural wood kitchen cabinets with glass doors, stained glass, and flat panel cabinet doors.
- European - kitchen cabinets with full overlay doors, concealed hinges, and taller toe kick.
Blending Kitchen Cabinet Styles
Many kitchen remodeling projects include characteristics of a few different styles, which allow you to incorporate your own individual style. The kitchen cabinets might combine the rustic look of pine wood with a cherry stain.Look for Kitchen Remodeling Ideas
As you plan your kitchen remodeling, look through Web sites and magazines for styles that fit your tastes. You might find rooms with large islands or cozy breakfast nooks. The kitchen cabinetry might include glass doors, crown molding, or other interesting detailing. Look for:- Kitchen cabinet styles - Do you like ornate or simple cabinet doors? Rustic cabinet hardware or porcelain knobs?
- Countertop ideas - Granite countertops versus solid surface or laminate?
- Floor selections - Wood or tile or vinyl?
- Overall decorating ideas - Windows with valances or wooden rods with fabric; faux finishing on the walls or country-themed wallpaper
- Color ideas - Look for paint samples and countertop and tile colors
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