If you’ve been browsing our website, you’ve probably already seen some of our designer kitchen styles. We’ve outlined some of the core differences on our webpages, but the available space prevents us from going into extensive detail. But don’t worry – that’s what this blog is for! Below, we outline some of the key characteristics of our different styles of kitchen, so you can decide which one might be best for you.
You may be wondering what makes German kitchens so great – what’s the difference between theirs and, say, Italian kitchens? Well, Germany was the first nation to corner the market on kitchen design. Their designers place a particular emphasis on ‘form following function’ – in other words, efficiency comes first, with the aesthetics based around them.
German kitchens have always been designed on the model of an industrial workplace, carefully devised to maximise functionality and economy of movement. The aesthetics of German kitchens, therefore, tend towards restraint rather than flair. The period in which many of its most prominent manufacturers were founded was the same era that saw the advent of famous art movements like Bauhaus and Deutscher Werkbund. These manufacturers quickly became world-renowned, and today “made in Germany” has become a universal hallmark of quality.
Traditional kitchens, meanwhile, place more of a focus on the use of natural materials to create a more Old World feel. Frequently this manifests in a decidedly rural country aesthetic – which is particularly popular on the other side of the Atlantic! Traditional kitchens use combinations of stone and solid timber in their makeup; granite, marble and limestone are common elements for worktops and flooring. Framed cabinetry and other elaborately ornate details differentiate them further from other newer kitchen styles, again giving credence to their classically Old World atmospheres.
There is still some confusion on the differences between contemporary and modern kitchens, and it’s easy to see why – the names don’t help much! However, the key thing to remember is that while contemporary means exactly that – current and ever changing, modern refers to a specific point in time, generally agreed to encompass styles between the 1920s and 1950s.
Therefore modern kitchens are sometimes referred to as “retro” for this reason, and are distinguished by a sleeker style with a focus on simplicity – characterised by clean, clear horizontal lines, with an absence of elaborate patterns. Their colours follow the same principles, typically using cool, neutral tones. Open floor plans are common in modern architecture, and so modern kitchens tend to follow this same formula. The cabinets and other furniture are unadorned (in stark contrast to traditional kitchens), giving a clean, unadorned finish.
The contemporary style, meanwhile, is a lot more fluid. As we’ve touched upon above, it’s ever changing according to the newest trends, so two kitchens in the ‘contemporary’ style can look completely different! Cutting-edge technology and integrated high-tech appliances are common features of contemporary kitchens (our Quooker taps are just one example), and hidden storage in discreet cabinets contributes to its streamlined style. It’s not uncommon for contemporary kitchens to blend a variety of materials and colours, which can make for some striking final effects.
At Kitchen Design Centre, we pride ourselves on our designer kitchen styles, as well as the enviable expertise of our interior designers. Browse our designer kitchen styles to see what we’re talking about, or book a free design visit to speak to one of our industry-renowned professionals about what best would suit you.
Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter: @modernkitchens
A brilliant trip to London with our showroom managers @kitchen_design_centre, as we joined Blanco in celebrating an incredible milestone — 100 years of manufacturing sinks and taps!
A century of innovation, design, and quality craftsmanship.
#craftmanship #sinks #taps #kitchendesign @blanco_uk
Your vision, our expertise.
At Kitchen Design Centre, we don’t just supply kitchens; we help you create a total vision for your home. Our team specialises in reimagining your space, ensuring the new design isn’t just beautiful, but perfectly functional.
From the very first spark of an idea to the final, streamlined installation, we guide you through every step of the process. Whether that be offering structural tips and big-picture design ideas that go beyond the kitchen footprint, or ensuring every corner is utilised to its best potential whilst maintaining flow, function and light.
George Clarke once said, “If you don’t get the layout right nothing else feels right. If your space flows and works properly it just makes you feel better, happier.” We at Kitchen Design Centre strive to get this right and draw from decades of experience, specialist skill and expertise to help each of you realise your vision for your dream kitchen.
Start your journey with us today at our Barrowford showroom. We can help you with projects ranging from small kitchen makeovers to large-scale renovations. While we don’t supply the trades, we can confidently direct you to the perfect trusted professionals to fulfil your dreams.
#kitchendesigncentre #kitchensbarrowford #dreamkitchen #design #lifestyle #renovations #kitchendesignideas”
There’s just something magical about a kitchen at Christmastime — the warm glow of the oven and the scent of cinnamon drifting through the air.
Here’s to the heart of the home — where recipes turn into traditions and simple moments become the ones we never forget.
#christmaskitchen #christmaskitchendecor
#kitchendesign #kitchendecor #kitchenrenovation #kitcheninspiration #kitcheninspo
It’s getting chilly outside — pop into one of our showrooms for a hot coffee and to discuss your Christmas kitchen wish list.
Winner’s Announcement!
To mark Kitchen Design Centre’s 40th Anniversary, we wanted to celebrate by giving something meaningful back to our loyal customers. Every person who purchased a new kitchen from us during the qualifying period was automatically entered into a special prize draw to win £4,000 back from the cost of their kitchen.
We’re excited to reveal that the winner of this fantastic prize is Mrs M from Colne!
We had the pleasure of visiting her last week to share the news in person — and she was over the moon.
A heartfelt thank-you to all our customers for celebrating this milestone year with us. Your continued support means everything.
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