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Timeless white kitchen


7 Ways to Design Yours Timelessly

by Madisen Black November 17, 2021

The dependable all-white kitchen color palette remains popular for the wide-ranging looks it brings to the kitchen. The clean slate of a single white hue brings visual calm when on its own. Add to that tile shape, pattern, and texture and you’ll start to see a personality emerge. It works as a supportive background when paired with gold hardware or dark wood for contrast. This classic neutral compliments modern, industrial, and every style in-between. Here, seven Sweeten kitchens show why white is the perennial choice.

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A fresh start in an all-white kitchen

As new parents-to-be, homeowners Tara and Brian were looking for something more modern. They wanted to ditch their dated kitchen with a faulty layout. After finalizing the floor plan, the homeowners chose a simple white subway tile backsplash to ground the room. The clean tile became a cohesive backdrop for an exotic live edge walnut island countertop—a must-have for Tara. The dark shelves stand out and provide a pleasant contrast.

A traditional kitchen goes modern

After seven months of living in their first home, Marc and Steve decided it was time to renovate their crowded, outdated kitchen, which was once dark and claustrophobic. The homeowners wanted their kitchen to feel open and bright. To achieve this, the duo installed sleek white cabinets and countertops. The window above the sink was swapped out for a larger window letting in more natural light. A black-and-white patterned floor added a graphic urban look.

A warm, minimalist all-white kitchen

Manhattan homeowners Elie and Matt wanted to remodel their washed-out gallery kitchen. Custom-made white cabinets, along with a white quartz countertop and backsplash moved them in a direction that was more in line with their taste. The pop of gold hardware and large-format gray tile flooring made the kitchen feel luxurious, yet crisp and simple. Their new all-white kitchen makes Elie and Matt feel at home in the open, welcoming space.

A simple and current all-white kitchen

With a kitchen that had gone through “a hodgepodge” of renovations, Sarah and Eddy decided they needed a complete change and a unifying design. Their kitchen was dark and dated. The goal was to achieve the opposite. The subway tile backsplash, grouted with dark gray, contrasted well with the open wood shelves. Keeping within the clean white look, an arabesque-patterned tile behind the stove was a nice design surprise. A neutral-toned banquette also stands out against a newly-discovered brick wall.

Let there be light

Two newlyweds in Manhattan knew their kitchen was in need of an update before moving in. The kitchen had been worn, with dark clunky cabinets, while the dining room table made the kitchen feel cramped. After adding white cabinets with black knobs and a white quartz countertop, the space was revived. Extending the countertop underneath a window expanded the kitchen’s reach. The natural light shines through the new counter-to-ceiling windows, making the all-white kitchen gleam.

Using architecture to add texture

Tara and Ryan found their kitchen to be functional, yet dark and musty. There was definitely room for improvement! Working around a column in the middle of the room, the couple was able to find a layout they liked. They achieved this by moving the kitchen island slightly to create more room. The show-stopping feature of the room is its now dazzling white appearance. A once dated and crowded kitchen was now open and bright.

All-white, with floor-to-ceiling storage

Nadia and Stephen planned to be avid home chefs in their multigenerational townhome. But with their L-shaped kitchen, counter-space and storage were lacking, they needed some updates. The kitchen was moved to one side which made space to include an island, wraparound pantry, and dining room table. The all-white cabinets with no hardware added to the modern and streamlined look of the new bright and spacious family kitchen.

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20 timeless period spaces |

(Image credit: Sho and Co & Ryan Shapiro Photography/Lauren Pressey/Lisa Sherry/Photo Stacey Van Berke & /MBC Interior Design/)

No matter which color is on trend at the moment, traditional white kitchen ideas will always be highly sought-after. 

White kitchen ideas are loved for their timeless appeal and endlessly versatility and can transform a tired looking kitchen into a bright, reinvigorated space. 

 ‘A white kitchen can be the perfect blank canvas to really let your creativity shine. There are endless possibilities when it comes to designing a white kitchen. You can go bold with your choice of countertop or backsplash, or keep it simple and classic. The important thing is to have fun with it and make it your own.’ says Los Angeles interior designer , John Linden. 

Below, we showcase our favorite traditional white kitchen ideas.

Traditional white kitchen ideas

White kitchens provide the perfect base for a myriad of traditional kitchen ideas. Think farmhouse kitchen ideas and rustic kitchen ideas at one end of the scale, and more formal Shaker kitchen ideas at the other. Add a splash of white and you have a space-enhancing design that will suit any room. Below, we showcase our favorite traditional white kitchen ideas.

1. Balance a white kitchen with darker accents

(Image credit: Karen B Wolf Interiors/Raquel Langworthy)

Traditional white kitchen ideas provide the perfect starting point when designing your kitchen, however, they are just a starting point. It is also vital that you incorporate character and personality into your kitchen remodel ideas.

'A white kitchen can be made memorable by adding contrast to produce a dramatic effect. Choose a part of your kitchen to add dark accents to, such as by opting for hardwood floors or when designing a kitchen island. This will help to balance out the white walls and countertops' neutral color scheme and for a more dramatic effect. To make the cabinetry more timeless, utilize furniture style cabinetry and consider the style of the cabinet doors to add interest,' says Karen Wolf of Karen B Wolf Interiors .

Tie the look together by accessorizing with pieces in the accent color, for example the white and blue spotted vases and blue cookware in this sleek kitchen. 

2. Play with texture to add character to your traditional white kitchen

(Image credit: Karen B Wolf Interiors/Raquel Langworthy)

Decorating with white is an art form. It can offer a light, airy feel to a space, however, it can also the risk of feeling cold and clinical. Prevent your traditional white kitchen ideas from feeling clinical by accenting with pops of color, such as with kitchen backsplash ideas, and warm wooden furniture – these colorful and textural details will sing all the more sweetly against the white backdrop.

 'The best way to avoid a one-dimensional all-white kitchen is to bring in texture. My top design advice: Do not do flat, builder-basic subway white kitchen backsplash ideas. Instead do something with depth, texture and a more organic surface. Handmade white tiles will break up the blahs, as will white marble with its veining. One of my favorite ways to elevate an all-white kitchen is with a visually compelling hood – think metals, woods, tile!' says interior designer Mary Jo Major .

3. Let your countertop be star of the show

(Image credit: Jessica Nelson Design/Carina Skrobecki Photo)

If you've opted for white kitchen cabinets and white walls, then you need to ensure that the other details – such as island countertop ideas – in your kitchen are brimming with character.

'A white kitchen is always going to be timeless, and with small touches, you can give it lots of personality. I love the veined kitchen countertop trend. Marble is still my go-to countertop choice for a white kitchen, but primarily for the island. Then use a deeper charcoal gray soapstone with white veining for the surrounding counters to keep it visually engaging,' says interior designer Mary Beth Christopher, founder of MBC Interior Design .

4. Think about flooring

(Image credit: Sho & Co/Stacy Goldberg)

A floor to ceiling totally white kitchen will inevitably feel clinical and soulless, therefore, if you're opting for white cabinetry, walls and ceiling, then opt for kitchen flooring ideas that are abound with color and texture. 

'With full white cabinets, the floor color will also play a role in how we proceed with pulling in color. With light hardwood, we tend to keep things in that light to med neutral tone color range. With dark hardwood, we play up the contrast a bit and may want to consider incorporating some black and white kitchen ideas into the space. With a tile floor, you really must be careful that the white does not feel too cold. Tile floor can feel cold as well so the cabinet color would weigh heavily on the color and style of the floor. If the tile has an earthy feel such as terracotta does, white cabinets can still work but the white will need to have a warm undertone and lean more towards an off-white,' advises Shoshanna Shapiro of Maryland-based Sho and Co .

Of course when choosing flooring ideas to use in the kitchen, you also need to think about its durability as well as its aesthetic so ensure you know how to choose the best kitchen floor.

5. Be wary of lighting a white kitchen

(Image credit: Roe Kitchen/Haylei Smith)

Traditional white kitchen ideas are guarantee to brighten your kitchen, however, wall and cabinet color can only go so far in illuminating your space. This is where kitchen lighting ideas come into their own, especially kitchen ceiling lighting ideas.

'Being aware of the lighting in a room with white cabinets is essential; this is because, with a certain LED or wattage of the lighting, it could be quite easy to obtain a sterile, cold mood in a room, which would not be ideal for any kitchen or living area,' advises Lance Thomas of Louisiana-based Thomas Guy Interiors .

It is also important to learn how to plan kitchen lighting to ensure it enhances the look and feel of the space.

6. Opt for white in open plan kitchens

(Image credit: MBC Interior Design/Lauren Pressey)

A white color scheme is the perfect partner to open plan kitchen ideas, especially in traditional homes. 

'White kitchens work well in open-concept floor plans because they don’t compete with other elements in the space for attention. White cabinetry becomes the backdrop and allows other items in the kitchen or in neighboring spaces to be the focus. Although they’re a blank canvas, it’s important to integrate elements that contrast the white such as dark counters or floors so that it’s not boring or sterile. Another twist to enliven the look is to anchor an all-white space with a contrasting color on the lower cabinets,' says Sarah Cole, founder of Sarah Cole Interiors .

7. Accessories are vital in a white kitchen

(Image credit: Sho and Co/Ryan Shapiro Photography)

When considering how to bring character to your traditional white kitchen ideas, draw inspiration from traditional decorating ideas.

'When working with white cabinets, they will not play the role of being the star of the show in the space. The purpose would be to capture a feeling. Keeping things light and bright invokes a fresh productive feeling for a great majority of our clients. Especially if they tend to be morning people. However, you need to add interest with textures of various sheens for the eye as well as texture that provides a more natural quality. Warm greys are nice to pull into the backsplash. And the backsplash should feel handmade with some variation in color and texture. Flat white subway does not do the trick in most spaces when working with white cabinets,' advises Shoshanna Shapiro.

8. Opt for white to maxmimize a small kitchen

(Image credit: Harvey Jones/Darren Chung)

Traditional kitchens have a reputation for being small, especially if they have not been expanded. In a small kitchen, every design decision will be orientated around maximizing space and increasing natural light. While you can opt for bold colors, small white kitchen ideas are a great pairing for traditional spaces.

'Colors and materials are important in any kitchen, but especially in compact spaces. Strong patterns can make the room look crowded, so for smaller kitchens, simplicity is key; opt for a clean and simple color palette with lots of white to help open the room and add pattern and texture in the form of splashbacks and soft furnishings,' says Matt Baker, Harvey Jones kitchen designer.

9. Take an all-white approach

(Image credit: 5_Lisa Sherry/Photo Stacey Van Berkel)

When designing a traditional white kitchen view the space holistically to ensure every element works harmoniously together. As well as drawing inspiration from these traditional white kitchen ideas, also look further afield to broader white room ideas to bring more a lifestyle element to these functional rooms.

'A neutral white palette is an amazing point of creative debarkation in a kitchen design. It’s where I start. My kitchens must cook. It’s a prerequisite. A white ground creates openness and clarity. High marks for aesthetics and functionality.

Light is essential, even in a white kitchen. Sunlight is my favorite source. Whenever possible, I eschew draperies and shades. Let the sun shine in. The view out the windows is like a piece of art.

And let’s not forget art. Wall space can be at a premium in a kitchen, but I always make room for art. Open shelving is an opportunity to turn everyday dishes into objet d’art!

Task and pendant lighting make a white kitchen shine. Pools of light can be very dramatic and direct attention. They’re also opportunities to add more texture. I love converting woven baskets into pendant lights.

There is no such thing as too much white, however it’s important to be intentional. I love white cabinetry and almost always specify paneled appliances. It makes my day when someone asks, where’s the refrigerator?' says  says  Lisa Sherry, Charlotte-based interior designer and principal of the design firm Lisa Sherry Interieurs .

10. Opt for shades of white to avoid a clinical feel

(Image credit: Georgia Zikas Designs/Jane Beiles)

If you've ever looked at a color chart, you'll know that there's not just one shade of white. 'I love an all white kitchen, but it's important to play with tonality of color to create a softer, more elegant space. Stark white can look very fresh but also a bit clinical - think about warming up your kitchen with a more neutral, ivory shade of white, and then adding texture through elements like an interesting backsplash, cabinet hardware, and countertops so that there is no shortage of engaging design details to enliven the room,' advises Georgia Zikas.

11. Paint your kitchen white to increase saleability

(Image credit: Interior Impressions)

If you are looking for kitchen color ideas that will flatter a small space, think white. 

'White kitchens will never go out of style. It is a clean and fresh look for almost any kitchen, remains timeless and is great for resale value. With that said, adding some personality to your white kitchen is a great way to bring your personal design style through. Consider adding an accent color through less permanent methods, such as colorful bar stools, lighting or even a great runner. That way your all white kitchen will have some dimension and interest,' says Amy Leferink.

12. Use white cabinets to make your home's original features the star

(Image credit: Mel Bean Interiors/Laurey Glenn)

Original features create a natural centerpiece in any room, so if you're lucky enough to have them in your kitchen then make sure they shine. 

Take inspiration from cottage kitchen ideas and barn conversion kitchen ideas and let your home's original features take the lead. Opting for just base cabinets means they don't distract from the stunning wooden beams in this beautiful cottage while the warm white shade makes the room feel light and airy.

13. Opt for open shelving to add interest to your white space

(Image credit: Future/Dan Duchars)

The adage 'out of sight, out of mind' used to be a driving force in kitchen design but too many matching cabinet doors and empty countertops can make your space feel unlived in. 'Storage doesn't have to be about closing items away in cabinets. Bespoke joinery can be designed to display personal belongings in their best light' says architect Amos Goldreich .

Opting for a traditional white kitchen provides a neutral backdrop that is ideal for pairing with open kitchen shelving ideas, as it lets your kitchenware or other trinkets take center stage without feeling cluttered or overwhelming. 

If opting for open-shelving, then its important that your walls make a statement, so why not consider wall paneling ideas – this kitchen with its wooden paneled walls, has a distinctly coastal feel. 

14. Contrast white cabinets with a colorful range cooker

(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby )

In north-facing kitchens, natural warmth (both temperature and aesthetic) will be lacking. Therefore you must that you factor in ways to augment the sense of warmth to the space. One way to do this is by adding a touch of color with your appliances. Not only will the warmth from the range will make a traditional white kitchen feel cozy and welcoming but the bright color make your space warmer all year round.

15. Add a pop of color to a traditional white kitchen with a pretty blind

(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)

If gray and white kitchen ideas appeal for their timelessness but you want a way to add color and pattern, then look no further than soft furnishings. One of our favorite decorative kitchen ideas, they are cost-effective and straightforward to change making for an easy way to completely reinvent the look and feel of a space.

Traditional white kitchen ideas give you total freedom in the colors of your soft furnishings as it goes with any color, pattern and texture – so you can choose blinds, cushions and throws that not only complement your kitchen but also reflect your personality.

16. Find the right paint for a traditional white kitchen

(Image credit: Future/Jody Stewart)

'White shades appear to vary depending on what they are seen next to' says Ruth Mottershead, the creative director at Little Greene . 'So it’s important to sample in situ, next to one another and alongside other surfaces and decorative elements in your kitchen, in order to compare the different effects this produces.' 

'For kitchens, it’s essential to choose the right finish too. Select a hard-wearing, washable finish such as Intelligent Satinwood for cabinets which providing protection as well as a smooth satin feel without being ‘too glossy’.

17. Make a traditional white kitchen feel warmer with terracotta tiles

(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer)

Capture the laid-back essence of Mediterranean style by pairing traditional white kitchen ideas with terracotta decor. Working well with clean white interiors, their copper tones evoke the warmth of the sun – perfect for brightening up a cold kitchen. A great choice for floor tile ideas, terracotta tiles can machine or handmade and offer an affordable flooring choice. Look for pretreated versions, which are treated with a primer and durable sealant to give them longevity and durability, especially if you are planning to lay in high-traffic areas.  

18. Create a rustic feel with a tiled backsplash

(Image credit: Life Ceramica)

Kitchen wall tile ideas are a great way to add color and texture into traditional white kitchen. Reclaimed or artificially aged tiles are a great way choice of farmhouse kitchen wall decor which will help you to achieve that signature, artfully distressed look. Setting the delicately patterned Antic Décor tile alongside the white backdrop of the Antic Blanco tiles both by Life Ceramica , creates a band of color that pops against a traditional white kitchen. Pair kitchen backsplash ideas with dark-toned grout to add to the time-worn feel. 

19. Create an on-trend Scandi kitchen with white cabinets

(Image credit: Jake Curtis)

Scandinavian kitchens are all about creating bright and airy spaces that are as light as possible, and that means white features heavily. 'The typical colors in Scandi kitchens are white paired with azure blue,' explains interior designer Nina Edwards Anker of nea studio . 'I used to work in Oslo for many years and if you walk by traditional ‘hytte’ along the Norwegian coastline, you may see white kitchens with azure glassware placed in the window frames to catch light.'

You can use this image as the starting point for your kitchen's moodboard – if you've never tried this before, ensure you learn how to make a moodboard before you start. Try incorporating glass-like backsplash tiles in a bright blue shade to bring a hint of Scandi to your traditional white kitchen ideas. Decorating with blue and white in this way will certainly enhance a kitchen, making it feel welcoming but also bright and airy.

20. Choose Shaker-style cabinets in matte white for timeless charm

(Image credit: British Standard)

Team traditional Shaker-style cabinets with wainscotting ideas for the perfect amount of rustic charm, as in this kitchen by British Standard . Paint cabinets and paneling in a matching pale, neutral shade to emphasise detailing and make the space feel fresh and airy.  

Is a traditional white kitchen a good idea?

A traditional white kitchen is definitely a good idea. Whether you love farmhouse chic, minimalist elegance or Scandi-style it provides the perfect versatile backdrop for your interior style – whatever that may be.

Traditional white kitchen ideas are guaranteed to look great no matter what color you decide to pair with them. Create a bold statement with primary colors which looks great when used on appliances or accents. Alternatively, opt for aquatic greens and turquoises for a more natural inspired feel that works brilliantly with patio doors leading straight on to the garden. 

If you're a lover of vintage, then white is the perfect foil to pastel shades, for this, paint an accent wall in your favorite color to add a touch of charm to your space.

What is the best backsplash for traditional white kitchen?

Ceramic or porcelain tiles and natural stone are all great backsplash ideas for a traditional white kitchen. The backsplash provides the ideal opportunity to add a splash of color to your kitchen and you have the entire rainbow to choose from - everything will go. If you don't want to make a bold statement, the veining in natural stone like marble or granite can add subtle interest without overwhelming the space.

If you're struggling to select a color for your backsplash, let yourself be influenced by the other colors in your room. 'I like to pull colors from any veining in the counters. Generally, natural stones have grey, brown and sometimes blue shades that can be incorporated into the backsplash, walls or window treatments,' says Kristina Phillips  of Kristina Phillips Interior Design.

Are white kitchens going out of style?

No, white kitchens will never go out of style. White kitchens are a timeless choice that work well with so many different styles and schemes. They are also a versatile base for a new kitchen as it will enable you to change your look without having to invest in new cabinetry and accessories.

How do I make my white kitchen not boring?

The easiest way to make your white kitchen not boring is to add character with accessories such as rugs, chairs, lights and kitchenware. 

'White doesn’t have to be antiseptic and cold, by any means. Embrace a white palette. Thoughtfully, layer in textures, ideally in neutral hues. I love converting rough-hewn baskets into overhead pendants. Tile and flooring are additional ways to elevate the space. Open shelving makes cookware and collectables part of the design – and always within reach,' says  Lisa Sherry.

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

White kitchens - designers' advice, a large collection of photos of white kitchens in the interior

White kitchen sets. White kitchens are very popular, they look stylish and elegant. White kitchens are timeless. The white kitchen turns out to be both bright and light, but at the same time calm and neutral. It carries a charge of pure positive energy and freshness.

Undoubtedly, a white kitchen is a stylish option for decorating a kitchen interior . White color is an ideal background for any shades, which easily gathers all the details into a single harmonious composition. This is the color of purity and nobility, which makes the kitchen unusually attractive and elegant.

White universal. With it, you can create an interior in any style - both classic and modern. It all depends on your preferences. nine0005

kitchens in only one white color are made quite rarely. But in combination with other shades: yellow, red, coffee, black, etc. white color gives the room freshness and brightness, visually enlarges the space, and besides, it unites the interior details into one whole.

Black and white kitchens are recognized as one of the most stylish designers. You can see the design options for black and white kitchens and interior design in the photo HERE

If only one white color is used in the interior, then it will quickly get tired and the room will begin to resemble a laboratory or hospital ward. It is impossible not to agree with this statement, looking at these two photos.

The white kitchen set needs to be carefully looked after, as the color is quite dirty.

In order for a white kitchen to please you for a long time, you need to diversify the interior with smooth, matte, glossy and embossed materials - in the decoration of the apron (wall panel), in the decoration of the walls of the kitchen, floor and ceiling. nine0005

You can combine a white kitchen set with tiles and wallpaper imitating stone, wood, leather, etc., use natural and floral motifs.

To make the room seem warmer, you can dilute the white with brown. In brown, you can make shelves, countertops, floor color.

Wall you can apply wallpaper for painting, stick washable wallpaper, lay ceramic tiles or decorative plaster. Wenge-colored tiles will help to make the interior more luxurious. The kitchen apron can be decorated with glass decorative panels, photo printing or mosaic tiles. You can see the design options for aprons (wall panels) for a white kitchen HERE

If you don’t want to make the room pure white, you can use milk, cream, cream and other shades of this color for the walls. You can complement the interior with mother-of-pearl, pearl and silver shades. nine0005

Walls of bright colors will also diversify and bring liveliness to the interior.

You can apply bold contrasting combinations of walls and a white kitchen, with shades can be painted in bright and warm colors: green, blue, blue, orange, red.

For floor , it is most practical to use laminate, ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware, the use of the currently popular decorative self-leveling floor is also relevant. nine0005

Bright furniture elements, kitchen towels, tablecloths, bright dishes, paintings, curtains and so on can become the highlight of the room.

White kitchen design options can be varied. Popular white kitchen sets in combination with black, red, brown, orange, green. In such kitchens, white should predominate noticeably, and complementary color is used to enliven the kitchen, make it more fun. nine0005

White is the perfect solution for small kitchens. This shade visually expands the space and gives a feeling of freedom, which is so difficult to achieve in a small apartment. The white kitchen becomes light and airy.

Externally, the design of the white kitchen is quite simple. But, despite the apparent simplicity, the white kitchen has charm and charm, wins people over and creates a comfortable atmosphere. Therefore, starting the morning in a white kitchen, you will receive a charge of positive energy and good mood. nine0005

White kitchen - dilute with color and add zest

Pure white kitchen , no doubt, insanely good, but sometimes it lacks a holiday. This is especially acute in the cold winter, when you want brighter colors in all areas of life. Decorate a white kitchen with some tricks and bold bright details:

* One of the ways to diversify the interior of a white kitchen is decorative stickers on walls and furniture. You can also draw various motifs using stencils for decor, hang bright pictures, decorative plates on the walls. nine0005

* Refresh your white kitchen with greens, flowers, flower pots. Flowerpots and pots with juicy green or brightly flowering vegetation can be placed on the floor, on the window or on the kitchen table.

* Spring-summer bright curtains for a white kitchen or fabric roller blinds or Roman blinds will add a good mood.

* An even bolder option is to replace household appliances with bright and colored ones - a refrigerator, dishwasher, microwave oven, etc. Modern colored household appliances in different designs will make the kitchen even more attractive. nine0005

* Provide colorful chairs in red, yellow or green, made of translucent plastic. In combination with a white or glass table, they will look great.

Do not forget that an excess of white in the design of the kitchen can play a cruel joke. An absolutely white monochromatic kitchen will look too boring, faceless and sterile. A monophonic interior, in which there are no bright details and accents, looks very dull.

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White kitchen interior design

Clean and bright interior design of a white kitchen looks good in any living room. White is neutral and simple. It doesn't go out of fashion. A white kitchen will fit into every interior: from minimalism to pompous classics.

Psychologists say: white is a symbol of happiness, innocence and purity. In color therapy, it is used to treat anxiety disorders and depression. nine0005

Project Marina Trach

White kitchens have been popular for 100 years

In 1918, half a billion people around the world contracted the Spanish flu. The disease has killed between 3 and 5% of the world's population—about 50 to 100 million people. It was a massive disaster.

The reason for the "Spanish flu" is unsanitary conditions. People became afraid of everything that looked dirty and could be contaminated with germs.

After analyzing these fears, manufacturers began to sell kitchen sets and household appliances in white - and only white - color. People associate white with cleanliness and health - such is the psychology. Producers benefit from these associations. nine0005

Fear of germs is gone. Now white kitchens are popular for other reasons. People love them for their modern design, light airy atmosphere, simplicity, brightness and comfort.

Project by Mikhail Zhidkov

Advantages of a white kitchen

White kitchens are timeless. White design - basic but bold. Bright, but not irritating to the eyes. Exciting but understated. A white kitchen will fit into any interior: classic, modern, minimalistic, industrial. White color is universal. Versatility is always in fashion. nine0005

Easy to update the interior. Tired of the situation, if you want updates - do not rush to destroy the old and build from scratch. It is enough to replace the curtains, tablecloth or lamps. Buy other fittings, new household appliances, hang pictures. It's easier and cheaper: a boring design will gain a new identity and a fresh look.

Project by Anna Novopoltseva

White visually enlarges the space. Black and other dark colors emphasize the boundaries of the room, make the room closed. White opens up the space, and even small kitchens become visually more spacious. nine0005

More light. White surfaces reflect light. The space becomes airy. This is useful if you don't have much natural daylight in your kitchen.

White kitchen materials are easy to find. Furniture, paint, tiles and other building materials in white shades are sold in any store.

Project by Evgeny and Maria Latyshev

Disadvantages of a white kitchen

You need to know when to stop. The all-white design scheme will evoke hospital or canteen-not home comforts. nine0005

Dirt is more visible. Food stains and splashes are clearly visible on white furniture and walls.

White kitchen set wears out faster. It may discolour or yellow over time when exposed to direct sunlight. On a white background, defects are better visible: scratches, worn corners, delamination of chipboard. This will give the age of the furniture.

Project by Anastasia Pokorskaya

8 universal tips for a beautiful white kitchen interior project nine0243

  1. Combine light shades. The interior, made in one color, looks flat. Use different materials and shades of white in your project. The room will be spacious.
  2. Create contrast. Contrasting color work surfaces set off white kitchen cabinets and walls well. Natural wood countertops look noble and create a warm atmosphere. Granite countertops add a touch of luxury. Glass - combined with the design of a modern kitchen. A dark floor or dark furniture will dilute the monotony of a bright white interior, muffle its “voicing”, and place accents. nine0300
  3. Paint your wall a bold color. An accent wall is a simple design decision. One bright color - from sultry black to sunny yellow - and the kitchen will be transformed.
  4. Blend textures. Add depth to your project: mix glitter with matte. Rough with smooth. Put the flower on a wooden table, decorate the walls with whitewashed brick, lay a fluffy rug. A good idea is to add fabric elements to the interior. Fabrics will bring softness to the interior. nine0300

    Project by Natasha Bogdanovich

  5. Add small color accents. The white background is a great base for decorations. Choose one or two contrasting colors. Color chairs, lighting, work surfaces, rugs, chandeliers, or appliances. Colors will create a pleasant atmosphere and will guide the eye. Be careful: too many different colors will ruin the visual purity of the project.
  6. Create an atmosphere with lighting. Let soft natural light be combined with unusual, deliberately large or low-hanging pendant lights. Properly selected lighting will emphasize the character of the project and create a pleasant homely atmosphere. nine0300

    Project by Alexandra Zyk

  7. Use simple fittings. Fancy accessories will quickly go out of fashion. Simple - will remain relevant, even if you radically change the design of the kitchen. Example: instead of beautiful but impractical furniture handles in vintage or Provence style, buy discreet classic ones.
  8. Decorate your interior with everyday items. Display cookbooks. Place fresh flowers or a bowl of fruits and vegetables on the table. nine0300

Project by Katerina Krasotova

What style to decorate the interior

White kitchen looks elegant and expensive in any style.

Projects in country, Provence and marine styles look good in white. The most popular design options are classic, modern and Scandinavian. Let's talk about them in more detail.

Project by Alena Litvienko

Classic style

Features nine0004

  • symmetry;
  • decor: columns, portals, decor, openwork furniture details, facades with milling;
  • pastel palette.

Room requirements

Classic style fits in a spacious kitchen, like a country house. Ideally, if the kitchen space is combined with the dining area.

In a small room, classic design usually looks heavy, pretentious and unnatural. nine0005

Materials

Use natural materials: wood, stone, ceramics. Synthetics and plastic have no place in the classic design. The exception is plastic household appliances.

Project by Yulia Sukhovey

Color palette

The classic interior is dominated by light shades of pastel colors: gray, ivory, beige. No contrasts in color or texture.

A classic example: white finish with golden surface decor. nine0005

Curtains, tablecloths, rugs, furniture upholstery can be painted in traditional bright colors. This will create the desired accents.

Layout

  • straight suites with island;
  • corner furniture. Its sides must be completely symmetrical. Without symmetry, the solemnity inherent in the classical style will go away;
  • U-shaped set.

Lighting

The central chandelier is an essential attribute of a classic kitchen project. This is the axis of symmetry of the interior and the main decor item in the room. nine0005

Install extra lights in the furniture or in the ceiling.

Project by Maria Kushch

Modern style

Features

  • geometry: angles, straight lines;
  • functionality;
  • conciseness: a minimum of furniture;
  • maximum open space;
  • built-in household appliances;
  • no open shelves. nine0300

Room requirements

Suitable for any room. Looks good in a traditional small-sized apartment. The minimalism of the interior will make the space visually spacious.

Materials

Shiny smooth surfaces prevail, glass, plastic, metal. The facades of the kitchen set can be made of any material and covered with acrylic, varnish, translucent enamel or PVC film. nine0005

Project by Ksenia Averina

Color palette

Complete freedom of choice of color palette.

Rule of thumb: don't use more than three primary colors, otherwise the composition of the design will fall apart. Let the dominant color occupy about 50% of the kitchen area. Additional - no more than 25-30%. Give the remaining 5% of the room for small color accents.

To make the interior not “hospital” and unfriendly, dilute the white palette with contrasting accents. Add bright colors, hang unusual lamps or curtains with an unusual pattern. nine0005

Layout

  • straight;
  • L-shaped;
  • U-shaped (only for spacious rooms).

Lighting

Make your kitchen as bright as possible. Natural light is welcome. If the dining area is in a dark place, be sure to provide additional lighting. We recommend not limiting yourself to one chandelier, even in a small corner kitchen.

Use spotlights to illuminate your work and dining areas. In a modern interior, a modern chandelier looks good. Lamps of simple geometric shapes without frills and decor are also appropriate. nine0005

Project by Ilya Shakirov

Scandinavian style

Features

  • is located at the intersection of Provence and high-tech styles;
  • ergonomic, utility;
  • minimum furniture. All furniture is functional;
  • lots of air and light;
  • simple lines, strict forms.

Room requirements

Suitable for rooms of all shapes and sizes. Especially for small and even tiny kitchens. Thanks to minimalism and light constructions, it visually expands the space and fills it with “air”. nine0005

Materials

Scandinavian design stands for sustainability.

Choose planks or laminate in light colors for the floor. Cool tiles are allowed.

Brickwork or branded Scandinavian wallpapers from Swedish manufacturers are suitable for walls.

Furniture - solid wood or wood veneer. Individual elements can be made of plastic, chrome-plated metal or transparent glass.

Project by Lenar Sultanov

Color palette

All shades of white are the basis of Scandinavian design. You can add mint, blue, beige, gray colors. Bright details look good: blue, green, yellow, red.

Lighting

The main feature of the project is a lot of natural light. Windows should be large. There are no curtains at all or they are made of a light transparent material.

There should also be many sources of artificial lighting. Include a chandelier, point and floor sources in the project. Chandeliers can be of any design: from retro to futuristic. nine0005

Project by Ksenia Korpan

Remember

Make a competent layout

Consider the area of ​​the room.

Light designs with a minimum of details and decorations are suitable for small kitchens: Scandinavian, high-tech, modern. This will visually expand the room.

There are no limits when it comes to decorating large spaces. Both minimalism and design with a lot of details will look good: classic, provence, country.

Know your limits nine0331

When designing a new kitchen, you want to get as much air and light as possible. The logical solution is to add as much white as possible to the interior. But it is important not to overdo it: the effect will be the opposite. The space will become uncomfortable and will look cold and bureaucratic.

Combine different shades and small color accents in your design. Your kitchen will gain individuality and style.

Keep it clean

A white kitchen needs to be carefully maintained. We've put together five tips to help keep your interior looking neat. nine0005

  1. Install curtains, blinds, or tinted glass windows to protect your interior from strong sunlight. Otherwise, white cabinets and laminated surfaces will turn yellow.

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