Hearth fire was the centerpiece of kitchens in ancient times. The kitchen was often kept open so that the heat from the fire could be used for cooking and chores. People used to prepare food over the open fire or in clay pots. It was an incredibly basic, primitive style.Hearth Kitchen Designs in Ancient Times
Hearth Kitchen Designs in Ancient Times
Victorian kitchen designs were inspired by the Victorian era. During this age, kitchens became an extension of the family room. Chairs and tables were added to the kitchen. Stove designs during this era revolved around the ‘gothic range’, which was a cast iron stove with two doors. The fire was contained in a box beneath the stove.Victorian Kitchen
Victorian Kitchen
Tudor-style kitchens are inspired by the English Tudor Era, which lasted from 1485 to 1603. These kitchens were usually large, with wooden floors and lots of natural light. It was a style of traditional elegance and grace, with a strong connection with nature.Tudor-Style Kitchen
Tudor-Style Kitchen
Athenian-style kitchens are a classical European style and originated in Athens, Greece. These kitchens were bright and airy, and were the precursors of the modern kitchen. The oven was a main feature, with a marble countertop and open shelves.Athenian-Style Kitchen
Athenian-Style Kitchen
Medieval kitchen designs were influenced by the Middle Ages. These kitchens were usually large and spacious, and placed in the center of the house. The oven was often the centerpiece of the design. This was the first time that food was cooked over fire.Medieval Kitchen Designs
Medieval Kitchen Designs
Modern kitchens have a lot of modern amenities and design options. These include modern appliances, countertop materials, and a wealth of color options. From stainless steel appliances to quartz countertops, modern kitchens are designed for convenience and style.Contemporary Kitchen Design
Contemporary Kitchen Design
Industrial style kitchens are becoming increasingly popular today. Exposed pipes, metal fixtures, and exposed brick are all typical features of these kitchens. It's a great way to add an edgy, modern twist to a classic design.Industrial Style Kitchen Designs
Industrial Style Kitchen Designs
Greek revival kitchen designs are inspired by the classic architecture of Greece and Rome. Marble countertops, white cabinets, and open shelving are typical of this style. Greek revival kitchens also often feature ornate decorative elements.Greek Revival Kitchen Designs
Greek Revival Kitchen Designs
These traditional French kitchens were inspired by the rustic look of the 13th century. Large wooden beams, open fireplaces, and stone flooring were common features. The kitchen was open, airy, and a focal point of the house.13th Century Rustic French Kitchen
13th Century Rustic French Kitchen
Classic English kitchens are warm and inviting. Wood cabinets, traditional furniture, and hand-painted plate racks are common features. These kitchens often feature traditional details like a big wooden table and a large fireplace.Classic English Kitchen
Classic English Kitchen
Primitive or colonial kitchen designs are inspired by the American colonies and the way they lived many years ago. These designs feature handcrafted cabinet doors, open shelving, and hardwood floors. The colors are usually muted and the overall feel is simple yet elegant.Primitive or Colonial Kitchen Designs
Primitive or Colonial Kitchen Designs
The Popularity of Historical Kitchen Design
Historical kitchen design has been experiencing a surge in popularity in recent years; combining the modern convenience of the kitchen with traditional, nostalgic styling.
Kitchen furniture
and fixtures have become a popular object of reinvention, with many homeowners choosing to install vintage style cabinetry, tile, lighting fixtures and
other kitchen decorations.
In some cases, homeowners who choose to embrace historical kitchen design will use reclaimed wood, giving a visually appealing worn-in look along with a touch of sustainability. Another option is to mix and match different historical elements with modern features such as stainless steel appliances or contemporary countertops.
The return to historical kitchen design can be linked to its nostalgia and familiarity, qualities that can be comforting and reassuring.It also offers a great way to inject personality and character into a room that is often overlooked in favour of more visible areas such as the living and dining areas.
Achieving a traditional look is often down the way the materials, furniture and ascertain nods to the
past are incorporated
. For example, cabinets with glass doors and vintage handles against a beaded-board wall demonstrate an up to date take on traditional kitchen design or reclaimed oak flooring against white cabinetry or sleek modern appliances can inject warmth as well as character into the room.
Vinyl flooring
exhibiting an old-style tile pattern is also a popular choice for many people looking to recreate a traditional setting.
The same is true of lighting fixtures. Recreating an older style in a modern room can be a way to add a touch of flair and compliment the other design features. Hanging lights, pendant lights, glass bulb shades and tinwork are just a few of many features one might find in a historically styled kitchen.
Kitchen design is more than just cabinets and countertops. Stylizing with accessories such as clocks, window treatments, cookware and textiles are also a great way to add a personal twist on classic historical design. Artwork, photographs and other family heirlooms can also help to incorporate personal touches into the design.
Finally, it is important to strike the right balance between warming the room with traditional pieces and maintaining a semblance of clarity in the kitchen. Too many knick-knacks and items can make the room feel cluttered, so ensuring a consistency of theme across the room and including the right amount of accessories can help to create a comfortable, homely kitchen that is timeless.
