Remodeling a historic kitchen to bring it up to date can be a challenging but rewarding experience. There are many things to consider that you may not think about when embarking on your renovation: architecturally-appropriate materials, efficient layout designs, and how to incorporate modern conveniences into an old-fashioned kitchen. Here are ten tips on how to remodel a historic kitchen that works for both you and your home’s style. 1. Preserve original features – where possible, you should conserve the existing historic features in your kitchen. These components such as cabinetry, fireplaces, and historic trim create a sense of authenticity and story to space. If possible, keep Marvin windows, pierced tin cupboards, and built-in cabinets and counters. Update and refinish existing features if necessary. 2. Use authentic building materials – look for materials such as reclaimed wood, vintage tiles, and thin-cut stones that are period appropriate and replicate the same look of the original fixtures from the time your home was first built. Some stores specialize in antique materials that could work well with a historic kitchen renovation. 3. Opt for end-grain flooring – if you plan on replacing your kitchen floor, opt for end-grain wood blocks. This type of flooring replicates the old-fashioned look of historic buildings and is perfect for a traditional kitchen. 4. Install efficient energy-saving appliances – although energy-saving appliances may not necessarily have the traditional look, they are an important aspect of a modern kitchen and help save money. Consider replacing your old appliances with efficient, ENERGY STAR rated ones. 5. Integrate a modern kitchen Island – the classic element of a modern kitchen is the kitchen island. An island can work well with a historic kitchen, and can provide extra counter and storage space. Make sure the island is not too large and does not overpower the other features in the room. 6. Think about your lighting – lighting is an important factor when it comes to making an old-fashioned kitchen look modern. Adjusting the lighting to a warmer tone, like a yellow or a soft white, makes the space look cosy and inviting. Also consider adding task lighting over key pieces, such as sink or cupboard. 7. Choose the right countertops – solid surface or stone countertops work well in a historic kitchen. Unless the existing counters are in great condition, it’s usually best to replace them with new ones that are timeless and stylish. You can also achieve the same look as historic countertops with easy-to-install faux stone countertops. 8. Update the hardware – hardware is often overlooked when remodeling a kitchen in an old home. Updating the existing hardware with more contemporary styles can give the space an instant facelift. You can also replicate historic hardware but with more modern production techniques. 9. Choose exterior and window treatments that blend in – because the kitchen is connected to the outside, keep the exterior treatments simple and in harmony with the rest of your home’s style. Choose awnings and shutters that look authentic to the period of your house’s construction, and opt for window treatments that are timeless and neutral. 10. Utilize clever storage – storage solutions are important especially in a historic kitchen. You may not have much floor space due to the open layout of the home, so installing wall cabinets and racks can help you keep your kitchen essentials organized while saving valuable space.10 Tips for Remodeling Your Historic Kitchen
When it comes to design considerations for a traditional or historic kitchen, there are many things to consider. From the materials used to the layout of the kitchen, every choice will play an important role in helping to create the desired look and feel. To ensure that your traditional kitchen remodel goes as smoothly as possible, here are some of the most important elements to consider. 1. Size and Floor Plan – the most important factor when designing any kitchen is the size and floor plan. In a traditional or historic style kitchen, the key is to keep it as open and airy as possible. If you have the space, it’s best to keep the countertops and cabinets minimal to create a more spacious feel. 2. Fixtures and Accessories – for a traditional or historic kitchen, look for fixtures and accessories that are both period appropriate and reflect the style of the era from which the kitchen originated. For example, in a colonial-style kitchen opt for a brass faucet, an apron farm sink, and aged copper pots. 3. Lighting – lighting can have a significant effect on the look and feel of a traditional or historic kitchen. Look for vintage fixtures such as chandeliers or wall sconces that will help to create an inviting atmosphere. Consider also installing indirect light sources to brighten the space. 4. Materials – when selecting materials for a traditional or historic kitchen, it’s important to choose pieces that will blend well with the time period. Look for tiles, cabinets, countertops, and other fixtures that suit the style and color palette. Natural materials such as wood, stone and marble work well in traditional kitchens. 5. Storage – when laying out a traditional or historic kitchen, storage should be an important consideration. Built-in cabinetry and pantries are perfect for a traditional kitchen, as they provide additional storage and also look beautiful. Look for features such as drawers, shelves, and pull-out racks that help to maximize space and organization. By following these tips, you can create the perfect traditional or historic kitchen. From selecting the right materials to planning the layout, all of these elements will play a crucial role in creating a timeless and inviting kitchen.Design Considerations for a Traditional or Historic Kitchen
Renovating a small historic kitchen can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can achieve a stunning result. From finding the right floor plan to selecting the correct materials, there are many important aspects to consider during a small kitchen renovation. To give you an idea of what is possible with a small historic kitchen renovation, we’ve rounded up some of the best before-and-after photos of small historic kitchen remodels. The most obvious difference you’ll notice in the before and after photos of these small historic kitchens is the dramatic transformation of the space. Open concept layouts, modern materials, and new appliances all contribute to the updated look and feel of these spaces. In these photos, you’ll also be able to see how these kitchens have been reconfigured to make the most of their small size. Cabinet and countertops are now more efficient, and clever storage solutions add lots of additional space. Lighting fixtures and window treatments have also been added to complete the look. Small kitchen renovations can be challenging, but they can also be incredibly rewarding. Provided they are thoughtfully planned and designed, small historic kitchens can be absolutely stunning! Use these before-and-after photos of small historic kitchen renovations to inspire your own renovation.Renovating a Small Historic Kitchen: Before & After Photos
Step back in time with a modern twist to your home’s design with a beautiful historic kitchen. When it comes to decorating this well-loved space, there are some key elements which you will need for a classic and timeless look. Read on for some of our best tips on how to decorate a stunning historic kitchen. 1. Choose vintage-style appliances – a historic kitchen needs to have that vintage flair. Start by looking at different styles of appliances – such as range-top cooking stoves and vintage-style refrigerators – to get the look you're going for. 2. Select antique furniture pieces – furniture pieces from different time periods can add a lot of character and history to the kitchen. Look for antique cabinets, sideboards, and tables with traditional wood finishes and carvings. 3. Add colorful tiling – tiles in hues of blue, yellow, or green are perfect for a historical kitchen. Choose traditionally-shaped tiles or patterned tiles for a classic look. 4. Brighten the room – a classic kitchen needs lots of light. Hang a chandelier over a table or island in the center of the room, and also consider hanging wall sconces or installing pendant lights over the stovetop. 5. Sprinkle in some vintage accessories – to complete the look, add some vintage accessories and details. Flower decorations, pottery, and antique-style wall arts add a traditional touch to the kitchen. This all-time favorite room of the house deserves nothing but the best. By following these tips, you’ll be able to transform your kitchen into a timeless and beautiful space that will be enjoyed for many years to come.How to Decorate a Historic Kitchen
Creating an authentic period-style kitchen can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only will you be able to add character and charm to the space, but it’s also a way to honor the history of your home. To ensure that you create a period-style kitchen that looks and feels like it was part of the original construction, there are a few key steps you should follow. 1. Research local period-style architecture – start by researching some of the local period-style homes in your area. Take a look at how the kitchens in these homes were designed and laid out, and note any design elements that catch your eye. 2. Gather period-styled materials and fixtures – look for kitchen elements that were popular during the time period your home was built, such as vintage appliances, antique cabinets, and traditional hardware. 3. Integrate design elements from other periods – it is also possible to integrate design elements from other periods that have a more timeless feel. Consider adding a classic, white subway tile backsplash or a farmhouse sink for a classic look. 4. Upholster with period-style fabrics – to add a comfortable and inviting feel to your kitchen, upholster your existing furniture with classic and lovely fabrics. Look for prints and patterns in a bold hue that will bring a little bit of brightness to the room. 5. Decorate with a vintage flair – decorating your kitchen in an authentic period style can create an additional feeling of warmth and coziness. Consider adding vintage items like pennants, framed images, and pottery that will create a classic, timeless feel. Creating a beautiful, period-style kitchen can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a kitchen that is true to the original concept and design of the home, while still maintaining a modern flair.Tips for Creating an Authentic Period-Style Kitchen
Renovating a historic kitchen can be a challenging but rewarding task. Not only will you be able to create a functional and stylish kitchen, but you'll also retain the historic character of your home. To help you get started, here is a guide to the key elements of a successful historic kitchen renovation. 1. Start with the layout – the key to any successful kitchen renovation is starting with an efficient and functional layout. Consider the existing dimensions and what elements need to be factored into the design, and keep in mind that an open concept layout will make the space look larger. 2. Source period-appropriate materials – it’s important that all materials used in a historic kitchen renovation stay true to the time period and style of the home. Look for period specific materials, such as antique hardware, antique tile, and reclaimed wood, that will give the kitchen an authentic look. 3. Install modern amenities – adding modern amenities is an important part of any historic kitchen renovation. To bring the kitchen up to modern standards, consider replacing outdated appliances with energy-efficient ENERGY STAR rated ones, and also upgrade the lighting and fixtures for a more modern look. 4. Research historic features – look for features that are true to the kitchen’s time period, such as Marvin windows, exposed beams, and original cabinetry. Try to preserve these features as much as possible, and use them as the design inspiration for your renovation. 5. Touches of modernity – it’s important to remember that your historic kitchen should also feel up-to-date and modern. Introduce contemporary elements such as modern lighting, tile, and fixtures, and also consider installing a kitchen island for extra space. Renovating a historic kitchen requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a stunning space that pays homage to the home’s history while still keeping up with the times.A Guide to Renovating a Historic Kitchen
How to Strike a Balance When Expanding a Historic Kitchen
Uncovering the Potential of an Expanded Kitchen in a Historic Home
The modern homeowner may face a unique challenge when in possession of a historic home―one that demands an upgrade to the kitchen area. This is due to an increased demand for kitchen space over recent decades, with functional kitchens averaging much larger sizes than those of the past. It’s crucial to approach such a task in a careful manner, given the importance of preserving the historic features of the home while incorporating up-to-date kitchen amenities. Fortunately, there are ways to successfully combine the two.
Modernising a Historic Home’s Kitchen
Keeping the historical integrity of a home intact is a top priority for many designs. Bearing this in mind , one of the primary changes to consider when updating a kitchen involves the placement of the cabinets, as they should be positioned in a way that complements the existing architecture. One way to accomplish this is by making use of vintage or abstract furniture to accent the area, whilst working around any original components of the house.
Maximising the Space with an Expanded Kitchen
With a carefully conceived design plan, it’s possible to create an expanded kitchen without compromising the character of the house. Reading the original plans for the home is often the first step towards achieving a successful outcome, as these can provide valuable insight into the details that should be preserved or prioritised. From there, homeowners can consider the options available to enlarge the current kitchen; for example, building upon an adjacent space or by extending the existing area .
Modern Kitchen Appliances and Fittings
In order to create the perfect modern kitchen, certain features must be included; these are appliances, fixtures and lighting. Recent designs favour concealed appliances for a more seamless look, such as recessed dishwashers and refrigerators, and concealed range hoods and microwaves . Additionally, modern kitchen sinks and faucets , as well as well-positioned lighting, are all essential components of a finished kitchen.