The style of your new kitchen is a highly personal decision. We never recommend blindly following a trend, especially if those trends don't relate to the style of the rest of your home.
They styles below are those we think are timeless and can be applicable to many styles of homes. The truth is that many styles will borrow from elements of each other to achieve something that will reflect your personal style.
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Top Style 1 - Traditional Style
The beauty of a traditional cabinet style is that it is versatile among many different styles and vintages of home. A traditional style will seamlessly blend with century-old homes, and even with a basic ranch style home. We would caution against designing a traditional style kitchen in a home that is very clearly a mid-modern style or the classic "Brady Bunch" style split foyer.
The farmhouse kitchen trend has been popular over the last five years, but like any trend, we don't recommend incorporating that entire style into your home, especially if you don't live in a farmhouse!
Many of the elements of farmhouse can be found in a traditional style, but expressed in a more refined way. The new iteration of the farmhouse style is showing up in the newer cottage style.
Here are some elements that exemplify the traditional style:
Timeless materials and finishes.
Rich, warm colors, such as deep wood tones.
Ornate details, mouldings and hardware.
Panel ready appliances.
A formal butler's pantry.
Top Style 2 - Modern Style
A modern kitchen style is a perfect solution for a homeowner who likes a clean minimal space, limited color and a spare aesthetic. In addition, there are some home styles that just call for this type of style in order to match the vernacular of the architecture itself.
A modern style expresses itself with:
Clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic.
Sleek materials, such as stainless steel, concrete and glass.
Neutral color palettes, occasionally with bold accents.
Open and uncluttered spaces.
Often the terms contemporary and modern are interchangeable, and many elements are technically the same. A contemporary style may mix materials, textures and colors more often, but still prioritizes functionality and practicality in material and the overall design.
Top Style 3 - Transitional
A transitional kitchen is where many homeowners find their sweet spot. Uncomfortable with a straight traditional or modern style, the transitional style borrows elements from each. The homeowner can feel open to picking what they love and expressing their own unique style.
Some common features of a transitional style are:
Blend of traditional and modern elements.
Combines classic designs with contemporary features.
Neutral color scheme and simple lines.
May feature some elements over overall trends but uses sparingly.
This kitchen is a great example of a transitional kitchen. There are some traditional elements: the ornate light fixtures, marble counters and wood finishes. However, the clean lined hood and simple, narrow shelf above the range give a flavor of modern elements.
Top Style 4 - Cottage
The cottage style kitchen is the newest take on a classic or traditional style. This aesthetic has grown in popularity due to a trend of young people yearning for a simpler time. Younger generations are turning to homesteading, canning and making sourdough bread; it follows that they would want their surroundings to match their desired lifestyle.
While this style is specifically called "cottage", it works well in a variety of home styles, including farmhouse, bungalow, Cape Code, ranch, or Craftsman. The style also aligns well with the vernacular of the Shaker style, which featured spare and simple fittings, like the Shaker peg.
Look for these features in a cottage design:
Quaint and cozy design.
Light and bright colors.
Vintage-inspired accessories and decor.
Mouldings and trims, such as beadboard, shiplap and pegs.
An unfitted kitchen.
In the same vein as the cottage style, here is an example of an "unfitted" or "deconstructed" kitchen. This style takes those simple and vintage elements but leaves off the base and wall cabinets typically seen in a modern-day kitchen. Instead, this kitchen has a freestanding range, and the countertop and sink space is provided by furniture. These pieces of furniture may be an old buffet, hutch, dresser or table.
Top Style 5 - Scandinavian
Last but not least for the Top 5 Kitchen Styles for 2024, the Scandinavian style is resonating with younger generations who are looking to minimize their lifestyle and possessions. Popularized by the concept of "hygge" (pronounced hue-ga), which means cozy, contented mood evoked by comfort and joy, this style is a warmer version of the modern style. While the modern style also focuses on spare design, the Scandi kitchen leans into warm woods and textures to bring a tactile and warm experience.
Elements of a Scandi style include:
Simple, clean lines and a focus on functionality.
Light color palettes, especially whites and light woods.
Minimalistic design with an emphasis on natural light.
We hope you are inspired by all the beautiful styles you've seen here, and perhaps one has really resonated with you. At Big Woods Construction, we are so honored to partner with you to make your kitchen dreams a reality, no matter the style!
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