Are you considering remodeling your kitchen? The design style you choose can greatly affect the appearance and functionality of the space. How about remodeling your kitchen with European or French sophistication in mind? The overarching style may range from traditional to modern, but consistent themes throughout lend a distinctly French or European flare.
You don’t need extensive design knowledge to begin your kitchen renovation. Simply turn to Innovative Design + Build for help bringing your vision to life. We are a design-build firm offering remodeling services throughout the Atlanta area, drawing on over 20 years of experience to ensure your satisfaction with a job well done.
Take a look at the design features commonly found in European and French kitchens. Then, contact us to request an in-home kitchen remodeling estimate.
European- and French-style kitchens come in two primary forms, depending on whether the design leans toward midcentury modern or old-world country.
A modern European or French kitchen borrows many design traits from the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s. This time period is best known for introducing midcentury modern to the world, a trend that many people don’t know originated in the Nordic countries of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway, and Sweden.
European midcentury modern lives at the intersection between vintage and contemporary. It incorporates hard lines and geometric shapes alongside flowing curves. Cabinets are minimally adorned, with flush doors and little to no hardware. Frosted glass is also a common way to add an updated look. In addition, countertops, floors, and furniture are typically made of synthetic materials like laminate, ceramic, and molded plastic.
In keeping with the modern feel, midcentury-inspired European and French kitchens usually have sleek, stainless steel appliances. Cut flowers and fruit bowls are common countertop accessories added to create a friendly vibe and introduce pops of color.
A European- or French-style kitchen in a country-inspired design conjures images of leisurely brunches and platters full of culinary delights. The layout of a French country kitchen is open and airy, with one-wall, L-shaped, and U-shaped kitchens with peninsulas acting as popular choices. Islands are also common for extra storage, seating, and counter space.
As expected, farm-style sinks are a popular choice in French country kitchens, as are counters and cabinets made of natural materials. Granite or other stone countertops may be glossy or matte in appearance. Then, oak, cherry, or maple cabinetry may be painted white or cream, stained to emphasize the grain, or distressed to create a weathered look. Cabinet doors typically feature intricate woodwork or cutouts paired with silver, iron, or bronze hardware. Often, light-colored cabinets are paired with dark countertops, or vice versa, to create a bold contrast.
French country kitchens tend to have a rustic, lived-in feel to them. Farm-style tables, plank flooring, and high ceilings with exposed beams are standard elements. Furniture is often antique or antique-looking to suit the casual, old-world feel of the room. Then, tile work can range from Tuscan-inspired terracotta and earth-toned ceramic to classic white subway tiles.
Artwork and accessories are important aspects of French country kitchens as well. Wicker baskets, framed pastoral scenes, hanging kitchen implements, and eye-catching light fixtures add further interest to the space.
Don’t put off your kitchen renovation any longer! If you think the European or French design style is exactly what you’re looking for, Innovative Design + Build can help you pin down what features you like most to design and build the kitchen of your dreams.
To see images of different kitchen design styles, check out our portfolio. Then, contact us to schedule a consultation.
