November 22, 2009
What Can I Use In Traditional Kitchens?
Classic Vintage is how to describe Traditional Kitchens that are making their way into homes all over the world. Popularity in this design has grown over the years and now is the most requested kitchen design in new homes today. They have the country warmth and friendliness within them.
Instead of dining tables incorporate beautiful made farm tables constructed using aged wood to give it that really vintage feel. Use hutches as well, but new ones who have that old country feel to them or search out antique malls for true classic pieces. Display a set of vintage china and stoneware bowls on them for added ambiance.
On floors you really can do just about anything and give it a vintage style feel. But wood floors stained a dark or reddish color work the best in traditional homes. You can find some tiles that are lovely and have rustic charm to them as well and may be better for your budget.
Remember back to when you were little and went to visit Grandma. What accessories caught your eye and which things within her kitchen do you really remember? These should be added into your own kitchen and things that resemble her items. This is the best way to get the design truly vintage and charming.
Your cabinets should be in natural pine or cedar with just a clear varnish on them. No paint or stain should be applied as this detracts from their natural beauty. You can also shop around for baker’s rack to match it in color and display some cast iron cookware, stoneware plates and vintage tea towels etc. On them for even more touches of the country feel. If you want cabinets with color then go for traditional white with glass front doors on some or a country blue.
For curtains they should be just valances in gingham, country colors or even have a country scene depicted on them. Tablecloths look best for special events only if they are hand sewn linen ones in natural colors. You do not want to hide the fabulous wood of your farm table all the time.
As far as accessories go the easiest way to find true vintage country ones are at flea markets and antique shops. You can find some really great treasures if you take your time and search through everything. You never know where the perfect addition to your kitchen may be hiding.
One great traditional accessory to look for is a wooden spice rack with glass bottles to hold the spices. These where in almost all older kitchens and will really pump up the traditional feel to yours.
Kitchen islands are another big thing in these styles. So find one in the size that fits best and get it in a matching theme of cabinets and counters. You do not want them all to clash with one another. These are great for preparing foods before cooking and for eating at if it is just the two of you one night.
Even traditional kitchens need a little modern touches to them, These can be added so that are not noticeable. Say a vintage looking refrigerator in classic colors may look old but really has all the bells and whistles of the new ones on the market too. Vintage looking ranges are the same as they deceive in their looks but have all modern gadgets within them.
Matthew Kerridge is an expert in kitchen design. If you want further information regarding traditional kitchens or are searching for a trusted kitchen online retailer please visit http://www.wrenkitchens.com
Filed under Home and Outdoors by Matthew Kerridge