Match Kitchen Cabinet Style to a Home’s Architectural Style?

Once upon a time, half a lifetime ago, homeowners, architects, and designers were careful to match wood, color, and kitchen cabinet style to the architectural style of a home. Colonial and Georgian homes consistently had specific types of cabinetry in the kitchen and bathroom. In particular, kitchen cabinet doors were of a predictable style. Encountering a kitchen that diverged significantly from expectation was arresting.

Today, although many homeowners prefer the traditional match of kitchen cabinet style and architectural style of the home, the old rules do not apply. Further, there is greater freedom to use the cabinet style and kitchen design you like, rather than follow outdated rules. It is common now to see sleek contemporary cabinetry in a farmhouse kitchen or a Georgian home. For those who wish to know or follow the traditional combinations, a quick overview is available here.

Many other homeowners, however, are following one or more current trends in kitchen design. The first of these trends reflects our reluctance to be bound by tradition. Instead, homeowners are remodeling or designing kitchens that suit their personal taste and needs. As a result, you can find any type of cabinets combined with stainless steel appliances and counter tops to create a “professional” or “gourmet” kitchen in any home – even a southern colonial.

A second trend today is mixing woods and styles in a kitchen. This mixing of kitchen elements reflects the popularity of adding an antique piece as an accent piece in a kitchen. Many kitchens mix cream-colored cabinets with a darker wood (like walnut) and another (like cherry).

Yet another trend in kitchen décor is painted cabinetry. Cabinets of any style are painted whatever color appeals to the homeowner. Different colors or shades are combined until the desired effect is achieved.

When purchasing any cabinets, you should pay attention to the quality of the materials used in construction and the quality of workmanship. You can then choose the style and décor that suits your personal taste. You can then design your kitchen or your remodel in the traditional way, or according to the trend that appeals to you. Either way you can have an attractive, functional, and unique kitchen that meets your needs and reflects your personality.