Like an outfit comprised of neat jeans and a white shirt, a classic kitchen has an enduring appeal that transcends the latest trends. Balancing function with stylish simplicity, a classic kitchen doesn't date.

Design details can hint at the past, but a classic kitchen's overall look is relevant today, tomorrow and beyond. When it comes to creating classic kitchen renovations here at Balnei & Colina, we think of the quote from iconic fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent: "Fashions fade, style is eternal."

In this month's B&C Home Journal, we examine how, through thoughtful design and practising restraint, you can design a kitchen that will stand the test of time. Enjoy! 

The team at Balnei & Colina

 

Balnei & Colina | Kitchen Renovation Sydney

Elegant simplicity 

Classic doesn't have to mean traditional or dull! It's more about practising restraint. A traditional kitchen often translates into a French provincial or English country theme, featuring ornate detailing and heavier accents and colour palettes. However, a classic kitchen renovation remains neutral, somewhere in the middle of traditional and contemporary styling, with subtle architectural details such as moulding and panelling. 

There are definite style cross overs like the popular Hamptons coastal kitchen design, with its light colour palettes and use of marble and timber. The difference is that a classic kitchen looks just at home in a city apartment as it does in a waterside abode. 

Image via The Pause

 

Image via Inside Out Magazine

Adaptable Look with Appealing resale value 

A classic style kitchen renovation has excellent resale value, making it a smart renovation option for those who know they aren't living in their 'forever home'. The style appeals to many home buyers and offers the flexibility to make easy updates that redirect the look. 

With a neutral palette and simple but beautiful materials, a classic kitchen acts like a clean slate that is easily updated if a change of style is required. A swap out of light fittings and barstools or a change of cabinetry hardware can give a classic kitchen a whole new look. 

With the endless scroll of inspiration images on Pinterest and Instagram, it's easy to be swayed by the many striking kitchen trends and design ideas for your kitchen renovation. So, what are the key elements of a classic kitchen renovation? Let's continue to explore.

Balnei & Colina | Kitchen Renovation Sydney

Subtle colour schemes 

Neutral shades will always be present in a classic kitchen design. From the cabinetry to the benchtops and splashback, white finishes and surfaces lend a fresh, airy feeling.

Black accents can give depth to a kitchen space and help highlight design details, creating an ever-enduring monochromatic colour palette. Muted shades of grey, soft blue and sage green also have a place in a classic kitchen scheme and are a popular finish for cabinetry. 

Image via Inside Out Magazine

Image via DecorPad

Nature-inspired materials

Natural materials like timber and stone, especially Carrara or Calacatta marble look stones, will ground the space and keep it classic. Gloss stainless steel and overly patterned engineered materials should be used sparingly for a timeless kitchen look.

Try to avoid anything that feels ultra-modern or uber-trendy, and make a statement with the warm, elegant beauty of natural materials. 

Image via Pintrest

 

Balnei & Colina | Kitchen Renovation Sydney

Shaker cabinetry 

The simple design of shaker cabinetry gives the classic kitchen renovation an extremely versatile look, with its low-key profile and simple detailing. With a change of handle or paint finish, shaker cabinets suit a range of kitchen styles, from Hamptons to Scandinavian and Modern Farmhouse. 

For a classic kitchen renovation, pair shaker cabinets with simple handles in classic brass, pewter or nickel, and choose a soft neutral colour for the facade. Are you overwhelmed by the idea of designing your custom kitchen cabinetry? Let the expert renovation team at Balnei & Colina guide you for a beautiful result with style staying power. 

Design history lesson: Shaker design dates back to the 18th century, named after the Quakers religious group. Known as the ‘Shakers’, they believed in simplicity and function above elaborate details or decorative features. 

Image via Pintrest

 

Balnei & Colina | Kitchen Renovation Sydney

Simple fittings and fixtures

Design is in the detail, and when it comes to a classic kitchen style, a timeless look is achieved by choosing simple, unelaborate shapes. Avoid anything too curvy, ornate or bold. Select handles and pulls in proportion to the cabinets and drawers, and look out for straight lines and simplified forms in quality materials. 

Budget for durable, high-quality tapware, sinks and fixtures. Your classic kitchen renovation will appeal visually for many years to come, and well-crafted elements will ensure that wear and tear won't be an issue. 

Still unsure how to create a classic kitchen renovation? Leave it to the kitchen design experts at Balnei & Colina kitchen renovations in Sydney. Simply book a kitchen design consultation today on 1300 450 320 or send us your project details via this contact form. You can also email us direct via info@balneiandcolina.com.au. 

Visit us at balneiandcolina.com.au and connect with us via Facebook or Instagram to keep up with the latest kitchen design trends.

Image via Architectural Digest

Image via HomeBlog

Balnei & Colina | Kitchen Renovation Sydney