How to Design an Old World-Style Kitchen

Old World-style kitchens recall the cozy, utilitarian kitchens found in sunny Tuscan farmhouses or old English manors. While no single country lays claim to this kitchen style, this decor embodies the sophistication and simplicity of traditional Europe. The overall effect of an old World-Style kitchen should be that of a comfortable and aged room. Enormously popular with families, busy singles and couples who love to entertain, Old World-style designs blend modern conveniences with antique or distressed furniture and materials to create comfortable, functional kitchens.

Things You'll Need

• Free-standing kitchen furniture
• Kitchen island
• Arches
• Beams
• Fireplace
• Metal accents
• Antique fixtures
• Hearth-style oven
• Farmhouse sink

Instructions

1. Incorporate free-standing, mismatched kitchen furniture. Consider hiring a company to create a customized kitchen; one composed of handcrafted kitchen furniture. A long kitchen island with chairs serves as a focal point of your Old World-style kitchen and provides additional storage space or room for food preparation. Add to the antique effect by choosing an island with legs to mimic a traditional table.

2. Use antique-looking materials. Stain cabinetry with dark glazes and choose furnishings that look slightly battered and distressed. Avoid shiny new metals and synthetics and choose natural materials such as stone and wood. Edges of materials should look rounded and worn rather than sharp and crisp. Tumbled marble makes a striking backsplash in this type of kitchen while butcher block or granite makes durable and authentic counter materials.

3. Opt for authenticity by hiding modern appliances and choosing period hardware and fixtures. Tuck microwaves away behind cabinetry and choose panels for your refrigerator and dishwasher that help them blend in with the surrounding furnishings. Choose a hearth-style oven such as one made by AGA and a farmhouse sink.

4. Recall cozy, European kitchens by incorporating arches and exposed beams into your kitchen. While a fireplace is de rigueur in many Old World kitchens, a brick arch over the cooking stove also works well if when a fireplace is not an option. Unpainted, thick beams across the top of high ceilings help impart an instant, rustic charm to your kitchen. Cabinetry should include curves and open shelving to highlight collections of dishes or stoneware.

5. Include metal accents and fixtures. Hang a wrought iron pot rack over your island or a forged iron chandelier. A metal baker's rack can hold your assortment of cookbooks and other kitchen accessories. Use pewter or aged copper, which develops a distinct patina. If you incorporate a fireplace into your kitchen design, add a scrolled metal screen to it.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint your kitchen in rich shades of amber, red, gold and blue to recall those of Mediterranean villas. For a French or English feel, choose blue, gray and soft greens.

References

• Guide to Creating an Old World Kitchen