Are you in the process of building or renovating your kitchen? If yes, how would you like a timeless classic kitchen that’s both highly functional and aesthetically appealing? Combining different aspects of traditional and contemporary design schemes adds uniqueness and extra elegance to your kitchen and home. 

Classic vs. Contemporary Kitchen Designs

Classic-style kitchens emit timeless elegance due to these defining features:

  • Ample storage space.
  • Intricately-designed and large cabinetry.
  • Classic pantry storage.
  • Submerged sinks. 
  • Subtle, muted colors that inject softness and warmth. 

Contemporary-style kitchens, on the other hand, are sleek, innovative, and optimize cutting-edge materials. Their standout features include:

  • Bold and vibrant color schemes.  
  • Integrated smart technology for added convenience.
  • Efficient layouts for extra functionality.
  • Social hubs such as breakfast bars and islands.
  • Unconventional design elements. 
  • Entertaining spaces.

With this in mind, how can you modernize your traditional kitchen or integrate classic styles into your contemporary kitchen?

 

  • Showcase natural elements

Instead of painting all the cabinetry and the walls, lean more towards showcasing natural elements such as glass, stone, and timber. Think along the lines of traditional oak cabinetry and exposed brick. This design creates a stunning and timeless aesthetic and at the same time gives your kitchen an earthy feel. What’s more, such natural elements are neither too shiny/flashy nor too boring, which means your kitchen stays grounded but not out of fashion for many years. 

 

  • Add contrasting textures

Your traditionally styled kitchen units will look more stylish and modern if you bring in visibly contrasting metallic appliances. This could be anything from a stainless steel oven, a colorful fridge, or a vibrant microwave.  The contrasting colors inject character, personality, and statement into the kitchen while striking a healthy balance of contemporary and classic. 

If you have a large space, you should consider creating an island with traditional units to serve as your kitchen’s focal point. A stonework kitchen island would work particularly well with stainless steel or acrylic units. 

While you’re at it, ensure that your walls and worktops create a unique juxtaposition with regard to both the materials and colors you use. If you have exposed dark wood on the walls or wooden flooring, for example, juxtapose that with thick marble worktops. If your cabinetry is colorful (natural green or soft blues) and glossy, go with plain white walls to create a stylish finish. You can also use charming rustic copper splashback designs to create a stand-out wall feature for an eye-catching look.

 

  • Make use of sectional lights

Pendant lights can add both warmth and style to any space. Recessed wall lights, on the other hand, create a minimalistic feel and inject some personality into the kitchen. Combining the two types of lighting in some zones within the kitchen will create a standout classic yet contemporary look and feel. The pendant lights can go over the breakfast counter while the recessed wall lights serve as decorative pieces for the blank walls. You can then install profile lights in the corners and in-cabinet lighting for added lighting efficiency. If you’re a fan of focus lighting, you can add a couple around your working areas.

  • Open up the kitchen with a free-flowing design

Open-style kitchens are in high demand these days because they’re stylish and their free-flowing design promotes functionality. This design also qualifies the kitchen as an entertaining family area- not just a cooking area. If you already have a timeless classic kitchen, consider knocking down a few walls for a more free-flowing layout. Doing that will actually enhance your home’s resell value.

 

  • Spend on quality materials and craftsmanship

If you want your kitchen to be truly timeless, avoid taking shortcuts, using cheap materials, or hiring cheap amateur contractors. The quality of materials and craftsmanship you pay for will determine the durability and longevity of the kitchen. 

Which quality materials should you go for? Invest in marble, dolomite, quartz, stone, granite, etc. for your countertops. If you choose wood flooring, be sure to use quality hardwood such as mahogany or oak. Hardwood provides a good balance of durability and color range. 

For quality craftsmanship, don’t shy away from spending big on a reputable professional kitchen remodeling contractor. You’re going to need to install your kitchen countertops the right way for them to last longer and not have to spend money again on fixing them. Be sure to do your due diligence before settling for a contractor. Read as many online reviews as you can and ask for recommendations from your family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors.  

Note: Wherever you are in the world, be sure to hire a contractor with insider knowledge of building codes and real estate trends in your area. 

  • Bring in modern technology

As modern technology advances, it is best to incorporate new technologies into your classic kitchen to make it more functional. There are endless possibilities when it comes to kitchen tech, from smart refrigerators and smart stoves to motion-sensitive faucets and smart lighting. You can set the smart lights to dim or change color automatically as a way of setting the mood for dinner. You can even buy an automated slow cooker that you can activate remotely to get dinner started before you get home. You can control the cooker’s temperature and cooking time from your smartphone in case you get stuck in traffic. 

Final word

Classic kitchens stay fresh and in fashion for many years. Contemporary kitchens are trendy and functional. Combining the two designs creates a functional kitchen that will stay ageless forever. The key to achieving this is working with a reputable contractor and investing in top-quality materials.