Classic Touches That Never Go Out of Style in Kitchen Design

When it comes to kitchen design, there are certain classic touches that stand the test of time. Trends may come and pass, but some elements remain beloved for their functionality, aesthetic appeal, and sense of homey comfort. In this article, we'll explore the key features that never go out of style in kitchen design. 

From natural materials like wood and stone to shaker cabinets and stainless steel appliances, we'll look at the details that have become mainstays in kitchens across decades. Whether renovating or building new, incorporating these timeless design choices results in a kitchen with enduring and broad appeal.

Natural materials

Natural materials like wood, stone, and marble make for elegantly timeless countertops that suit both traditional and contemporary kitchen designs.

Wood countertops like butcher blocks offer warmth and versatility. Durable maple or oak options withstand years of meal prep while developing an appealing patina over time. For a more dramatic yet impeccably stylish look, marble countertops bring elegance and a smooth, cool touch.  Advances in sealing technology have made marble a more practical option for heavy-use kitchens.

Granite countertops also continue to reign supreme for their strength, realistic stone patterns, and resale value enhancement. Though man-made alternatives abound today, the authenticity and durability of natural wood, granite, and marble make them perennial countertop choices.

Shaker cabinets

Shaker-style cabinets embody versatile, uncomplicated beauty. Characterized by their clean lines, flat recessed or raised panels, and lack of ornamentation, shaker cabinets offer a streamlined look fit for an assortment of aesthetics from traditional to modern. The simplicity of shaker cabinetry allows the wood's natural grain to take center stage and gives rooms an airier, less cluttered feel. 

Tall cabinets with long vertical pulls are a key component of the iconic shaker style. Made from durable woods like oak, maple, and hickory, shaker cabinets stand the test of time with their unfussy styling. Whether you prefer painted, stained, or natural wood, shaker cabinetry adapts seamlessly to personal color schemes and room styles. Their enduring popularity proves why this is one kitchen cabinet trend that will never fade.

Stainless steel appliances

Sleek stainless steel appliances immediately give a kitchen a modern, upscale look. Stainless steel refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and sinks have an industrial chic vibe that pairs well with many design styles from traditional to contemporary.

Stainless is also prized for its durability and easy cleaning - its nonporous, rust-resistant surface simply needs a wipe down to keep appliances looking pristine. For these reasons, stainless steel remains one of the most popular appliance finishes, lending timeless beauty and functionality to kitchens.

Ceramic tile backsplashes

A ceramic tile backsplash injects color, pattern, and texture into a kitchen in a beautifully timeless way. From simple white subway tiles to elaborate mosaics, ceramic backsplashes handle moisture while adding visual interest. The colors and designs available in ceramic tile are endless, allowing creativity in your backsplash look. 

Textured tiles like handmade Moroccan-style tiles create old-world charm, while glass ceramic tiles lend an alluring transparent look. No matter the style, high-fired ceramic tile stands up to heat and stains, and cleans up easily compared to other backsplash materials. Durable, decorative and easy to install, the ceramic backsplash remains a compelling choice.

Apron sinks

The apron-front sink delivers vintage farmhouse charm to modern kitchens. This style features a large single basin sunk into a cabinet with a visible front apron. Apron sink fronts come in an array of materials like stone, copper, or enameled cast iron for durability and retro appeal. Unlike divider double-basin sinks, the expansive single basin allows for washing large pots and baking sheets with ease. 

The exposed apron lends charm and provides a built-in backsplash behind the sink area. For those desiring a traditional yet functional sink with cottage style, the apron-front sink is a timeless choice that evokes nostalgia.

Open shelves

Open shelving lends an airy, minimalist feel to kitchens. Rows of wall-mounted shelves skip cabinet doors, freeing up floor space and offering easy access to dishes, cookbooks and barware. Open shelving creates a lighter visual effect compared to wall-to-wall cabinetry. 

The exposure keeps items neatly organized while doubling as decor. Open shelves display collections, serveware or glassware. Just be sure to edit items to curate a clutter-free look. The industrial vibe of unenclosed shelves provides modern appeal, though the concept dates back centuries to traditional apothecaries and general stores. This focus on function and crisp simplicity ensures open shelves will stay in style.

Pendant lights and dim shades

Nothing brightens up a kitchen like pendant lighting. Suspended over islands, sinks and countertops, pendant lights provide warm, focused workspace and mood lighting. The seemingly weightless glow adds a stylish atmosphere. With classic styles staying in vogue, look out for popular design inspiration to make a kitchen glow. Vintage-inspired pendants with exposed Edison bulbs or modern glossy globes both fit right in. 

Consider hanging multiple lamps at varying heights for dramatic effect. For more homey appeal, think hammered metal or woven textile shades. Whether dressed up or industrial chic, pendant lights draw the eye upward and provide timeless illumination exactly where needed most. Their stylish functionality makes pendant lighting a definitive kitchen classic.

When designing a timeless kitchen, certain elements stand the test of time. Though trends fluctuate with trends, seasons and influencers, some cornerstones of kitchen design remain steadfast.