Modern Vs Traditional Kitchen: Which is the right style for you?

Modern or traditional kitchen?

Should you go for more of the traditional kitchen designs or choose the modern kitchen? Not sure which one is best?

Are you in a position where it's time to give your existing kitchen a bit of an overhaul? The most common question that you'll end up asking is coming up now, and it really is one of the most important decisions there is to make when you're creating the perfect kitchen.

Should I have a modern or traditional kitchen?

You should have the kitchen style you love! While it might simply seem like a matter of taste or preference, your choice of kitchen design can have an impact on the value of your home, so it's a good idea to make an educated choice.

What is a modern kitchen?

A modern kitchen is a bold statement in your kitchen space. In many modern kitchens, you'll see:

• Brighter or more sophisticated colours

• Smart appliances that have been built in

• Fancy refrigerators included by a kitchen designer

• Whacky lighting, clean lines running through it

• Sleek cupboards flush against appliances

• A welcoming entrance with a kitchen island

But you don't have to be over the top to get a modern kitchen, especially because all of that can come with a hefty price tag. Instead, you can just replace the kitchen door fronts for a modern kitchen style.

Did you know that we replace kitchen cabinets for less than you think? Come and chat to us.

What is a traditional kitchen?

Traditional kitchens are understated. Lots of smaller kitchens incorporate these styles, but you can still go for a traditional look if you have a kitchen with more room. Traditional kitchens often include:

• Muted tones

• Pale colours or a warm shade

• Real wood finishes

• Minimalist look

After this traditional style? Steer clear of the sleek and sophisticated styles and lighting. Instead, incorporate the traditional ones in your kitchen space. Think close-knit spaces, a homely atmosphere and a classic Shaker kitchen design.

What's a Shaker kitchen, and how much does a Shaker kitchen cost?

What's the difference between modern kitchens and traditional kitchens?

The difference is traditional kitchens can be much more natural and timeless.

Some say traditional kitchens will never go out of style. Modern kitchens will change as the seasons and kitchen trends do. But if you love a certain style, don't let that affect your decision!

We're all about creating the right kitchen for you with the right elements and tastes. Get some inspiration for an affordable kitchen refurbishment.

Putting your stamp on your kitchen

Ultimately, there is a lot to be said for personal preference; it's your kitchen, you're the one using it and the way you deck out your kitchen can reflect a bit about yourself.

Put simply - it's your space and you'll want to put your stamp on it.

In addition, you might live in a home that immediately lends itself to a particular style; a small, terraced cottage might not house a minimalist, contemporary kitchen too comfortably, while a rustic kitchen may look completely out of place in an executive penthouse.

So, are you picking and choosing between modern and traditional kitchens? Take note of your kitchen's environment. It can help to save you from making the wrong choice!

Keeping up-to-date

When it comes to trying to add value to your house, there are a few other factors to throw into the mix – the first of which is a kitchen's longevity. What we're not talking about is its functionality; we're talking about its capacity to become dated.

How long do modern kitchens last?

On average, modern and contemporary kitchens will last between five and ten years before it starts to become unfashionable – think of the pine kitchens that were so popular in the 1990s, but are now a thing of the past.

How long do traditional kitchens tend to last?

Conversely, the traditional kitchen stands up as fashionable for a lot longer – possibly because the design is created to be timeless and so weathers the whims and fancies of those who set the trends in the first place.

The importance of traditional kitchens

Traditional kitchens also benefit from being made of wood; if the look starts to date or becomes a little tired, all it takes is a lick of paint or a new set of cabinet doors and your kitchen is looking its best once more.

However, if you've gone for something ultra-modern, it's going to be a lot harder to source those same fixtures and fittings in the future.

While you can overhaul a traditional kitchen a bit at a time, a contemporary kitchen tends to need its facelift all at once. If you want your kitchen to stand the practical test of time, then it might be better to lean towards something more traditional.

Can there be a middle ground between modern kitchens and traditional kitchens?

Yes. While it seems that the traditional style kitchen has more going for it, there's nothing to stop you from trying to find some middle-ground. Why not combine modern and traditional? Just always stick to your personal taste in your kitchen space.

Some of the most exciting kitchens are a fusion of traditional and contemporary styles, which can have practical as well as aesthetic benefits.

The middle ground of a traditional, modern kitchen

Choose the bits of your kitchen that you want to stand the test of time and design them with a traditional eye. You're going to be spending a lot of time in this room.

So, your ideal kitchen should be one you love. The kitchen design should make your life easier. It's the heart of the home after all.

Not a fan of striking colours, clever hidden storage and straight lines? That's okay! Go for natural materials, and muted colours and know your personal preferences in the design process. Or maybe you love the whacky open shelving, raised panel cabinets and snazzy kitchen units!

Either way, there may be key differences between a modern kitchen and a traditional kitchen. But the kitchen design should always be loved by you and suit your family's lifestyle.

How to make a traditional kitchen more modern

Traditional kitchen with modern twist? Add contemporary details, such as modern doorknobs and handles; things that can be easily changed or replaced at a later date.

What is the modern traditional style kitchen?

The modern traditional style kitchen is a wonderful mash-up of the two styles. It's a traditional kitchen with modern twists. It means you don't have to choose between the two looks. For example, choose the warmer old-school style kitchen cabinets, and then have fun with the rest!

Want to start mixing modern and traditional kitchens? Check out our kitchen door fronts to get some ideas.

Thinking about going for a modern or traditional kitchen?

We can replace your existing doors, drawers and drawer fronts for a fraction of the price.

You'll get the feel of a totally new kitchen with our kitchen makeovers - it takes less time and money than you think. Get a quote.

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