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

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Modern Kitchens Are Practical, Attractive And Spacious

What room in every household has the most buzz? The answer is easy - yes, it’s the kitchen! With a constant flow of traffic, the kitchen is where mom, dad and the kids get to interact with each other. Whether you’re making a rushed breakfast or preparing a late-night snack, you’re bound to meet up with someone in the kitchen. Modern kitchens are therefore designed to suit our 21st century lifestyles.

What is a modern kitchen? A modern kitchen is one that is chic and sleek, irrespective of what type of material or fittings are used. There should be a sense of flow throughout - if you decide on metallic finishing, then complement this with appliances that are metallic. Hang dishes, pots and pans on attractive racks or hooks. And get trendy lighting that you can dim or brighten.

Cooking in a modern kitchen is a pleasure. Cutting edge technology will offer everything you need to prepare delicious cuisine to impress your family and friends. The very latest in fancy gadgets, processors and blenders are a must for any modern kitchen. Clean lines and easy maintenance are the priority in the design of modern kitchens.

Consider using glass (semi-opaque or frosted) on cabinets to set a really modern tone. Add to this some subtle background lighting to shine through the glass. This will give a fantastic effect. Or you may wish to paint your cabinets in bright colors to complement other elements in your kitchen.

If you have a kitchen that’s quite small, you can create an illusion of spaciousness by installing stainless steel cabinets. To further increase this illusion, also use stainless steel counters. This will create an unbroken line throughout and make your kitchen look substantially larger.

Having gone out of style some years ago, the laminate counter top is back in fashion. When combined with bright kitchen cabinets, laminate counters create a great vibe in any modern kitchen. Granite and quartz counter tops are still in vogue and their durability and practicality make them firm favorites. You may prefer a stainless steel counter which comes with its own sink, chopping board and a draining board.

If you have a look at some of the top kitchen designs, you will see that glass is another popular material, especially colored glass. Put color glass doors on the kitchen cabinets or create a sassy look with a colored backsplash or counter. Extra lighting below the backsplash looks really great.

Use the same finish in various areas of your kitchen. If you’ve decided to have your backsplash made of glass, why not choose glass as the finish for your cabinets and counters as well. Then choose a laminate finish for two other main features. A modern kitchen should make a statement about you, so be brave and original.

Once you’ve established the final design of the major components of your new modern kitchen, you’ll need to start choosing appliances to complement it. Visit a website specializing in kitchen appliances and supplies. You’ll see some stunning stoves, refrigerators, air conditioners and dishwashers that will provide the finishing touches. And don’t forget the crockery and cutlery should also match.

Matthew Kerridge is an expert in kitchens. If you would like further information about modern kitchens or are looking for a reputable kitchen retailer please visit http://www.wrenkitchens.com

Filed under Home and Outdoors by Matthew Kerridge

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