Country kitchens inspire feelings of warmth and coziness that make them an ideal place for gatherings. They exist in many variations yet have similar design features. Walls are usually a soft, muted shade of yellow or sage. Most include an assortment of display items such as pitchers, dishware, recipe boxes and artwork. Those with rustic elements typically incorporate unfinished, natural wood into the surroundings. Open beam ceilings and framework as well as brick or stone accents are common. Ceramic or hand-painted tiles, slate, stone or marble are popular choices for counter-tops. While it is not necessary for the furnishings to match, it is important to pay attention to detail when choosing them to ensure an authentic appearance. Below are some country kitchen ideas for your makeover.
Open Cabinets, Shelves and Cupboards
If you have fine china or other dinnerware that you like to show off, cabinets with glass front doors are an ideal place to display them. Many country kitchens have glass front designs installed for the upper cabinets. They may be painted white or a pastel color but are often stained or left unfinished to facilitate a rustic appearance. Vintage hardware adds an air of authenticity. In addition, floating, open shelves provide spacious storage as well as a display area for glassware, ceramics or pottery. Separate cupboards are available in numerous designs including glass door designs, open shelves or closed door. They are often an attractive addition to a country kitchen and provide storage and display areas.
Vintage Furnishings
A traditional favorite for a country kitchen is the farmhouse table. It’s a long, rectangular table which includes bench seating on both sides that can be slid underneath the table when not in use. They are also available in corner models and are a favorite for smaller areas. In addition, the design promotes a feeling of togetherness that adds a welcoming atmosphere for gatherings. For more spacious kitchens, large farmhouse tables made of barn wood are tremendously popular. Spindle-back chairs accommodate seating in true country charm. Other antique furnishings such as buffet tables and pie safes add visual appeal to the room. You can frequently find ideal furnishings for your country kitchen at a flea market or yard sale. Furnishings for a rustic design will have a time-worn, weathered appearance. Therefore, you don’t need to be concerned about blemishes or scratches; it adds to the charm.
Old Fashioned Sinks and Faucets
Apron-front sinks have become a popular way to infuse vintage charm into a country kitchen. Their deep basins are also handy for washing everything from large pots to your pet. Previously, the weight and size of apron-front sinks required custom made cabinetry. The increasing demand for these large sinks has prompted manufacturers to make them easier to install. In addition, they can be found in a much wider assortment of materials including enameled cast iron, stone, copper and stainless steel. You’ll want to complement it with an old-fashioned faucet. There are a variety of styles and finishes to choose from such as copper, brass and nickel.
Wooden Kitchen Islands
A kitchen island evokes reminiscence of old farmhouse kitchens where they were the center of most of the food preparation. They also add value to your home. A kitchen island can take on a number of forms. In kitchens where there is ample space, the kitchen island may consist of cabinets, offering additional storage space. Some upscale versions may include a prep sink. Butcher block topped islands are quite popular for country kitchens and can be found in various sizes to meet space requirements. Rolling butcher blocks are available as well and allow you to move them as needed. Even an old antique table can be placed in the center of the kitchen to serve as a kitchen island.
Brick or Stone Accents
Brick and stone accents are an ideal way to introduce a rustic feel to your country kitchen. Whether you choose an open stone fireplace or brick tiles over the stove, they offer earth tones and rough textures that blend well with the other design elements of the kitchen. Stone and brick flooring also infuse rudimentary style and are quite rugged. Using brick or stone tiles to accent archways or other architectural features of your kitchen will instill natural colors and provide outdoor elements.
Floral or Checkered Fabric Prints
Floral fabrics and checkered prints are classic patterns in a country kitchen and provide a cheerful atmosphere. Use flowered window treatments, plaid table cloths or hang a checkered apron in an area where you’d like to add color. You’ll also find the apron comes in handy when preparing an elaborate meal with messy ingredients. Dish towels, oven mitts and pot holders with a botanical print can be displayed on a towel rack or shelf to add to the décor. Crocheted throw rugs add interest to the room and can provide texture and color as well.
Quaint Accessories
Accessories for your country kitchen are limited only by personal taste. Make use of wooden signs and tin wall hangings. Another tried and true method to accessorize your classic country kitchen is to hang pots and pans from a ceiling rack. It’s an outstanding way to keep the space open and inviting. Copper pots and pans will add a striking accompaniment to the décor. Display your antique rose plates and other collectible dishware to add decoration. It’s not uncommon to see decorative plates mounted on the walls or on stands. Place your cast iron cookware and canisters on open shelves. If you can your own vegetables or make homemade preserves, the jars make wonderful display items on a kitchen dresser or shelf. You can tie a ribbon around the jars or add other decorations to make them more appealing. Ornamental pitchers can be used to organize whisks, wooden spoons and spatulas and keep them close at hand.
