I consider these kitchens classic AND trendy! Classic, because white cabinets are timeless. Trendy, because the countertops are quartzite which is a new and beautiful trend. The first image is transitional and classic, with a modern twist in the black bar stools.
The turn to white kitchens came during the Victorian period, when homeowners began to spend more time in the kitchen. The materials available at the time also lent themselves to white, such as the porcelain for tiles and sinks, and milk-based paints for cabinetry. Today, one of the best benefits of a white kitchen design is that it can facilitate just about any kitchen style, from traditional to modern. Country or farmhouse-style kitchens in white or light hues are popular, and Colonial, French, and vintage or retro-style kitchens are well-suited to a white color scheme as well.
White works well for small kitchens because it is light and bright, which makes the space appear larger. In addition, good lighting helps give definition and character to a white kitchen, since it is so reflective. The room can seem warm or cold, depending on the light source (natural or man-made). Finally, white is an excellent color for resale - it's like a blank canvas for prospective buyers.
Okay, I want white – what do I do next?
Cabinets, floors, backsplashes, tables and chairs and islands may all be part the prevailing theme and a white or light tone. But, when you're planning your white kitchen design, you must be sure to think about texture, and how all of the finishes and materials you select will blend. Also, think about how you may want to add various tones of white. Do you want pure white, off-white, ivory, cream? Do you like a modern sheen to your white materials, or is a rustic look more appealing to you? Do you like pops of color to enhance the white or do you prefer beige tones to accent it? For example, consider an accent tile in your backsplash that makes it more interesting. Or, white marble, with veins of beige or gray. Or, check out the darker wax colors added to the edging of white or ivory cabinets.
Kitchen furniture offers another opportunity to add visual interest in a white kitchen design. Stools and chairs are widely available in color shades as bright as neon, and tablecloths and placemats can also be used to break up a white kitchen design with intricate and interesting patterns and bold colors.
White is not for everyone, but if you come to our Allied Showroom, you will see we have thousands of options to choose from. I look forward to talking to you more about your dream kitchens and baths!