7 Characteristics of a Traditional Kitchen

Traditional kitchens are marked by their classic design elements and architectural features originating from 18th, 19th and early 20th century American and European design. While many modern kitchens embrace minimalism, traditional kitchens are quite the opposite and instead favor detail and ornamentation to create an elegant and luxurious space. To help you define what exactly makes a traditional kitchen, here are 7 characteristics you should look for.

Natural Materials Traditional kitchens mix and match natural materials like stained wood and patterned stone to give the room a comfortably layered look. While contemporary kitchens use man-made materials like metal and concrete for their sleek appearance, traditional kitchens embrace the natural imperfections of wood and stone as they add to the detail of the room.

Raised or Recessed Cabinetry A key indicator of a traditional kitchen is in its cabinetry choice. Raised or recessed panel cabinets are used instead of contemporary flat cabinets. These cabinets often have elaborate profiles and large applied moldings. It’s not uncommon for traditional cabinet fronts to have decorative inserts like glass or metal mesh that you would typically see in a dining room.

Classic Stains and Colors In traditional kitchens, the colors are typically muted with varying shades of creams, light pastels, greys, and greens being the most popularly used. In addition, the wood is often stained or finished with a glaze to make it look distressed or aged, adding to the timeless feel of the room.

Crown Molding raditional kitchens are marked by their attention to the little details, so it’s no surprise that decorative crown molding is used to add flair to the room.

Natural Flooring You won’t find laminated floors in a traditional kitchen. Instead you’ll find natural materials like tile, stained hardwood, or patterned stone

Custom Range Hoods Custom range hoods are often the focal point of traditional kitchens. Ornate metal hoods, custom-shaped plaster hoods, or carved stone or wood hoods are used to add interest to the space.

Decorative Lighting Decorative lighting is used to further embrace the detailed look of traditional kitchens. Chandeliers, recessed task lighting, and lantern-style lights are the most common lighting choices.