5 Kitchen Styles to Consider

When planning a kitchen renovation, there are many different styles to choose from. Homeowners should consider what style of kitchen they want before making any decisions. This will help narrow down the options and make the process easier. You wouldn’t start picking out paint colours before deciding on a house, and likewise, you shouldn’t select a backsplash pattern for a kitchen that hasn’t yet been styled.

There are five main kitchen styles: Traditional, Contemporary, Transitional, Country, and Rustic. Once you've decided on a style, you can start planning the details of your kitchen remodel. This includes choosing the right appliances, cabinets, countertops, and flooring. With so many choices available, it's important to consult with a professional kitchen designer to make sure everything comes together perfectly—and to make sure your kitchen remodel translates to a value-increasing home upgrade.

Contemporary

When planning a kitchen remodel, many homeowners choose a Contemporary style. Contemporary kitchens are sleek and modern. They often have minimalistic designs with clean lines. The cabinets and appliances are typically very simple, with clean lines and polished finishes. The countertops are usually made of granite or marble, and the floors are usually tile or concrete.

When choosing appliances for a Contemporary kitchen, it is important to choose ones that are simple and streamlined. This means avoiding appliances with excessive buttons or features. The cabinets should be made of high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or glass. The countertops should be sleek and easy to clean. The floors should be easy to maintain and slip-resistant.

If you want a Contemporary kitchen that is also unique, consider using bold colours or patterns. This can be done with the cabinets, countertops, or floors. You can also use unique lighting fixtures to add to the overall design. Just make sure not to go overboard, as too much of a good thing can quickly become overwhelming. This final tip rings true for the remaining kitchen styles, too.

Traditional

Many homeowners choose a Traditional style when planning a kitchen remodel. Traditional kitchens are classic and timeless, typically featuring warm wood tones and cabinetry, as well as ornate details. The appliances are usually fairly simple, the countertops are usually made of granite or marble, and the floors are typically hardwood or tile. 

When outfitting a Traditional kitchen, you should avoid appliances with too many bells and whistles to fit with the classic, timeless style. Cabinets are typically made of high-quality wood, such as cherry or maple; countertops are generally granite or marble, and tile and hardwood are the flooring materials of choice.

Transitional

Transitional kitchens blend Traditional and Contemporary elements. They can be either formal or informal, and a choice of hardwood or tile flooring can complement your chosen level of formality. The appliances are usually fairly simple, and the countertops are usually made of granite or marble.

As Transitional kitchens blend Traditional and Contemporary styles to your specifications, choosing appliances and materials that fit your vision is paramount. By avoiding too many bells and whistles and choosing from the flooring, cabinet, and countertop materials mentioned above, you'll ensure that your kitchen remodel produces the Transitional kitchen of your dreams.

Country

Country kitchens are warm and inviting, and homeowners can really put their personal style into a Country kitchen remodel. Farmhouse sinks are probably the first potential design detail that comes to mind for a Country kitchen, but the possibilities are endless, from butcher block tables to islands made from repurposed cabinets. Country kitchens are traditionally designed to be welcoming, and this fact can be helpful to keep in mind when designing your Country kitchen.

Choosing appliances and materials for a Country kitchen comes with some general guidelines, but there's always wiggle room; in fact, pushing the limits of a design style's guidelines is a great way to make that style your own. For example, simple appliances are best suited for Country kitchens, but making an exception for a smart refrigerator can add stylish contrast.

Rustic

Of all the kitchen design styles, the Rustic kitchen probably leaves the most room for personal interpretation and free-wheeling. While there is some overlap with Country kitchens, Rustic kitchens feature natural and reclaimed materials to a much higher degree; furthermore, Rustic kitchens frequently pay homage to a home’s geographic region. If you’re remodelling the kitchen of your Ontario home, for example, you can achieve a Rustic feel by featuring reclaimed wood from the white pine tree—the official tree of Ontario.

Rustic kitchens present opportunities to use reclaimed materials for features like exposed ceiling beams, wood posts, and stone backsplashes. As a guide, however, using natural materials like wood and stone and either simple or retro appliances will help you create the Rustic kitchen of your dreams.

A Kitchen Style for Every Taste

When planning a kitchen remodel, it is important to choose a style that suits your needs and preferences. There are many different styles to choose from, so take your time to explore all of your options. Once you have decided on a style, you can start planning the details of your kitchen remodel. This includes choosing the right appliances, cabinets, countertops, and floors. With so many options available, you are sure to find a style that you love. Just make sure not to go overboard, as too much of a good thing can quickly become overwhelming. And be sure to work with a home renovation professional as they'll guide you through the process, including what to expect during a home renovation.