What Is a Country Kitchen?

A country kitchen has an open, rustic look and feel.

The kitchen is a prominent room in any house and can take on several different themes or styles to suit the homeowner. A country kitchen design takes a step back in time to an informal, relaxed atmosphere that attempts to mimic the feel of an old-style farmhouse. Some may use modern appliances and amenities, but the fixtures and overall feel should remain rustic and open.

Space

A typical country kitchen has an open feel and is a multi-purpose area, often serving as the dining area and general meeting place for the family. The floor may be made from stone tile or wide plank hardwood. The walls can be wallpapered in any number of patterns or painted a solid color depending on your taste. Try to have more elements of your kitchen made from natural materials instead of synthetic to keep with the country theme.

Colors

A country kitchen has a light feel, and the colors are usually bright and friendly. Red, green, yellow and white are common colors for a country kitchen, as is plaid. Color may be added to the walls, tablecloth, cupboards, backsplash or in a border around the top of the room.

Fixtures

Using vintage appliances in a country kitchen gives an authentic feel but isn't necessary to achieve the desired effect. A modern fridge and stove and even a dishwasher can have a home in a modern country kitchen. Simple cupboards in white or pine give a country feel, as do open shelves on top of cabinets or on the backsplash. You can display dishes and other accessories on open shelves to enhance the open feeling of the room. A kitchen table made from reconditioned wooden planks lends an air of authenticity, but if you can't find a wooden one in your budget, a real cloth tablecloth will suffice.

Accessories

The accessories that are placed throughout a room are often what really reinforces the theme, and accessories in the country kitchen are no different. Glass containers, jars, milk bottles and cast iron pans all complete the country look of the kitchen.

References

• Toronto Star New In Homes: Gone Country
• Kitchen Design Angel: Country Kitchen Design