Five must-dos to create a kitchen space that fuses the traditional with the contemporary
In the world of interiors, no room is more loved by homeowners than the kitchen. It is where memories are made. From family celebrations and dinners with friends to learning to cook alongside your parent or grandparent, kitchens are often associated with comfort and joy.
If you are planning your kitchen makeover, the first thing you will need to decide on is the style of kitchen you want. Will it be a modern kitchen, with sleek, gloss cabinets and porcelain worktops or a traditional one with plenty of wood, open cabinets, and limestone floors?
Each kitchen style has its pros and cons and you should choose carefully which is more suited to your lifestyle and family needs, both now and in the future.
But what if you didn't have to choose one style over the other?
In this article, we will help you identify 5 ways to blend the two styles, creating a magical fusion of a traditional kitchen with modern elements. With our expert tips, you will focus on the products and colours that can help you bring a successful design together in no time, so you can spend more time with your loved ones enjoying an amazing new space.
So read on to find out how to create a space that fuses traditional and contemporary elements!
Source: Architectural Digest | Design: Balton Design | Photography: Ye Rin Mok
Consider your classic and contemporary elements
First and foremost, consider the classic elements you want to include and the parts of the kitchen you want to be more contemporary, as some elements work much better than others.
For example, traditional flooring such as Dijon limestone tiles can work well in a minimalist and modern kitchen. Bringing high-quality elements into the design, these tiles are hard-wearing and timeless in their style.
The same goes for farmhouse sinks. If you love the look of a butler sink but want the overall look of the space to remain contemporary, consider adding one and toning down the style of the cabinets - avoid shaker style for example. That way you can have the best of both styles.
This minimalist kitchen features concrete walls, limestone tiled floors, sandblasted travertine wall cladding, and black cabinets
Harmonise materials and finishes
When combining the old with the new, there is a gap that needs bridging with the type of materials often different in today's modern kitchen. Porcelain and ceramics are classic features of yesteryear but worth considering for a kitchen today, and they can really set the tone for the kitchen.
Alternatively, wooden countertops are very popular in kitchens that are looking to blend the
classic with the new and offer a versatility and closeness to nature that can even improve
mood.
Embrace traditional colours
One of the best ways to add traditional elements to a modern kitchen is through colour. Natural and neutral tones will provide that classic feel, while you could opt for natural colours like terracotta if you want to get a more summery and Mediterranean vibe from your space.
Combining that with natural stone or wood throughout your space can also combine that further, as mentioned with countertops, or shelving and flooring, tying the whole space together.
Opt for the mod cons
When it comes to the modern element of your kitchen, it’s always best to look that way when it comes to the white goods and functional things in your kitchen space.
That’s largely down to them being more efficient and ultimately saving you money on bills, during a period when bills are high.
Installing an AGA, for example, will be much more costly to run today, so while it may be a great quality cooker and look traditional, it may no longer be the best option.
A traditional kitchen with modern elements designed by Amber Interiors
Think functionally
This brings us to our final tip: ensuring that your style blend does not compromise the functionality of the space. Essentially, the design of your kitchen should improve efficiency and this should manifest in the layout, seating arrangements, storage, the white goods and the preparation space.
Once you sort out the functionality of the space, you can blend traditional craftsmanship and classic features with modern-day conveniences. Always try to get the most out of your kitchen. Do that, and you’ll have created something very special indeed.
Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors and lifestyle. She launched award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.
Download her free bathroom renovation guide here.
