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
TRADITION MEETS MODERNITY IN OUR LIVERPOOL SHOWROOM
In our Liverpool showroom, we’ve masterfully blended the best of traditional and modern design elements to create a unique, timeless kitchen display. This space is a perfect mix of classic elegance with contemporary functionality, and the focal point is the stunning L-shaped island, which serves as both a practical workspace and a social hub. Its clever design seamlessly links into a media wall and presentation area, incorporating the essence of modern open-plan living.
The colour scheme is a sophisticated mix of Concept130 Roma Graphite shaker cabinets paired with Montreal light fine oak handleless units and taupe trim handles. This combination offers a perfect balance between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, perfect if you appreciate the classics but want something a little more updated.
Standout appliances:
Neff 30cm Wine Fridge
Neff 80cm Induction Hob
Neff Single Oven
Neff Tall Integrated Fridge
Neff Dishwasher
MODERN MINIMALISM AT ITS FINEST IN OUR URMSTON SHOWROOM
Our Urmston showroom display showcases a bold, modern kitchen design that effortlessly blends both form and function. The handleless units create a streamlined, uninterrupted flow throughout the space, perfectly complemented by the ultra-matt black finish on the worktops. This pairs beautifully with the elegant black ribbed-veneered door for the focal wall.
This minimalist design approach offers a chic, contemporary vibe, ideal if you love the clean, clutter-free aesthetic. To enhance this look, we’ve used warm accent colours that break up the monochrome palette, adding a sense of inviting depth and warmth to the overall space. The subtle, extravagant marble panels add a touch of quiet luxury, their natural veining providing visual interest and texture against the sleek black surfaces, especially when lit by warm LED lighting. This fusion of modern materials and timeless elements, such as marble, creates a display that is both stylish and practical!
Standout appliances:
Neff N90 Ovens with premium 6.8” touch screen display and Twist Pad Flex control
Neff Flex Induction Hob
Silgranit Blanco Sink
Quooker Tap
THE BARROWFORD SHOWROOM’S HARMONIOUS AND ELEGANT DISPLAY
In Barrowford, we’ve embraced a calming, earthy palette that combines functionality with elegance. The display features Hampton Ash wood doors painted in a Natural Umber shade, mixed with Scala Olive green flat doors, and completed with a mix of antique brass handles. The warm, neutral tones of the Natural Umber give this kitchen a wonderfully cosy feel, making it a welcoming space for both cooking and entertaining.
One of the key features of this display is the 30mm Vanilla Noir quartz worktop, which stands out with its dark, characterful design. The designer bench seating includes pullout storage to maximise space without sacrificing style. The bifold worktop unit and sliding doors on the island showcase smart storage solutions. Finally, the open shelves add a touch of rustic charm!
Standout appliances:
Neff Collection Oven
Neff XL Fridge Freezer
Quooker Classic Fusion Tap
Double Bowl Tartufo Sink
THE BLACKBURN SHOWROOM’S SLEEK AND MODERN MASTERPIECE
Our new Blackburn display is a testament to a modern, streamlined design. It features a bold black and oak colour scheme, seamlessly blending practicality and contemporary aesthetics. The tall units are clad in a Black Velvet Oak, adding depth and contrast to the sleek black wall units. The Toronto base units and matching worktops are finished in Natural Vintage Oak for a beautiful and cohesive end result.
One of the standout elements of this display is the quirky curved breakfast bar, a unique feature that blends functionality with style. Raised planters behind the bar add a touch of greenery; perfect if you love bringing natural elements into your kitchen.
Standout appliances:
Neff 60cm CombiZone Black Induction Hob
Integrated Design Hood
Neff Fully-integrated dishwasher
Neff Integrated Frost Free Under Counter Freezer
More from the team’s annual trip to Germany to the headquarters of Hacker Rodinghausen showroom.
Staff from all of our showrooms attended to view the new exciting ranges of kitchens and colours that are available from now. They were given a full factory tour & took part in product workshops. It was an intensive 2 x day trip however they had a fabulous time.
Head to our stories for more details or head over to our website to book your free design appointment
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