6 Classic Contemporary Updates for Your Kitchen

The term “classic contemporary” may seem like an oxymoron, pertaining to two contrasting design aesthetic. However, there is beauty in this paradox of blending old concepts and new techniques. When it comes to interior design, a classic contemporary kitchen celebrates traditional details while incorporating modern materials and state-of-the-art appliances.

Traditionally, a classic kitchen features architectural details hailing from the 18th to early 20th centuries. It highlights the use of natural materials, paneled cabinets, detailed corbels and molding, and decorative lighting. Color palettes often include creams, ivories, and beiges. To incorporate it into the 21st century, interior designers use fresh new materials, such as stainless steel, handmade tiles, and lava stone, which give the kitchen a more minimalist style. 

Whether you’re building a home from scratch or renovating an old home, here are six ways to achieve the classic contemporary look for your kitchen:

Choose the right colors

Colors have the amazing ability to transform a whole room. For a quick and inexpensive kitchen update, give your walls a fresh coat of paint. In doing so, you can make an old kitchen look more contemporary by choosing white, gray, or adding black highlights.

Update your countertops

Keep in mind that replacing or adding countertops can be a huge investment because they don’t come cheap. However, they do make a big difference to a kitchen’s overall look as well as functionality. If you’re renovating, update your current countertop with a more modern finish, such as wrapped stainless steel. 

Using natural stone, such as marble, is also in trend these days and can give your classic contemporary kitchen a more sophisticated appeal. Since modern designs use sharp details, make sure that your countertops’ edges are square and not beveled or rounded. 

Pay attention to cabinet handles and knobs

They may be tiny details, but handles and knobs can also make or break your kitchen’s look. Replace outdated hardware with simpler, sleeker designs. For a truly contemporary feel, choose trendy materials, such as copper and stainless steel. 

Re-tile your floor

If your kitchen still uses traditional wood flooring, consider replacing it with modern tiles. These days, the trend is to use either hardwood flooring or natural stone tiles. Additionally, you can choose large-format tiles to make the area look more spacious. 

Add a backsplash

One sure way to make your kitchen look contemporary is by adding a backsplash. While classic backsplashes feature tiles with elaborate details, the contemporary look leans towards linear or more geometric designs, such as rectangles, hexagons, and small squares. 

Switch to eco-friendly solutions

Aside from its physical design, a classic contemporary kitchen should also focus on its functionality. Nowadays, there is a massive shift towards using eco-friendly solutions to help conserve water, energy, and also to reduce waste. If you have the budget, outfit your kitchen sink with an Insinkerator for easier garbage disposal. 

Make small steps towards using solar-powered electricity, and install modern taps. Doing so will not only make your kitchen look more contemporary, but it will also help you cut down on utility costs while helping the environment!

This distinct combination of traditional and modern design characteristics make the classic contemporary kitchen a favorite style of many homeowners, especially those who are thinking long-term. Its streamlined and clean look complements the furniture and also increases a house’s resale value.

If you’re looking for a kitchen remodeling contractor in Orange Country, get in touch with us today to see how we can help with your project!