The Return of the Classic Kitchen

As the '70s bell-bottom pants remind us, trends become outdated, and a new trend is always waiting in the wings to take their place. What was considered passe a few years ago is now enjoying a resurgence in popularity among a new group of designers and homeowners. Keep in mind, though, that these styles have evolved over the years and don't look quite the same as when they first arrived on the scene. Here are five classic kitchen trends that are making a comeback to inspire your next renovation.

Natural wood tones

While painted kitchen cabinets are a timeless and budget-friendly option, designers are seeing stained wood cabinets being requested more often by their clients. What could be more inviting and cozy than natural wood? Don't want to go through the expense of replacing your kitchen cabinets? There are many creative ways to bring the natural wood look into yourhome. Add natural wood tones by adding floating shelves for extra storage, a pantry door, wooden stools around an island, or wood accents on your kitchen table or island. Designers are blending different woods for a warm layered effect, as well as using paint and wood together. Consider painting overhead cabinets and adding natural wood cabinets under the counter - or vice versa. A butcher block table or island top works well for prep work while adding a touch of natural wood and creating an ecofriendly aesthetic. 

Old-school details

Designers are noticing clients' preferences for adding antique details in their kitchens. Whether it's a gently used butcher block island or vintage cabinet hardware, these details provide the room with a sense of tradition and charm. Vintage copper cookware in good condition is also much sought after by cooks for its visual beauty and ability to heat quickly and evenly.

Eat-in kitchens

Eat-in kitchens and breakfast nooks are coming back in style. Breakfast nooks offer a sense of privacy with their cozy built-in bench seating, especially in an open floor plan. They also double as a place to do homework, space to work at home and an added area for food prep. They provide a great eating and seating choice for busy families and those who like to entertain.

Curves and Arches

While clean kitchen lines have been popular for quite some time, curves and arches are creating a softer and quieter feel in the kitchen. This style can be pulled off in several ways, including by adding an arched doorway, a curved kitchen island or arched cabinets, particularly in a corner with glass doors. Lighting and accessories are other ways to embrace the curve. Pendant lights can make a statement while having a useful function.

Good Bye Boring Countertops

Once all the rage, white marble countertops with their hard-to-maintain beauty have taken a back seat to countertops with bolder colors and textures. Granite has taken over for marble, but with a fresh look. Homeowners are avoiding the speckled "builder-grade" granite of yesterday in favor of a cleaner surface. Since each piece of granite is one of a kind, the slab you select will be unique to your kitchen's personality.

Classic kitchen design never really goes out of style; it is just waiting to be discovered in the present by a new generation of designers and homeowners ready to redefine the past with a contemporary spin.

Contact us for more tips, inspiration or to go take a look at move-in ready homes that will give you that classic, warm kitchen without doing the work!