Post by Stacey Walker. Stacey mostly works behind the scenes for Walker Woodworking, managing day to day operations, and marketing. Stacey has helped many clients create their dream space.

Timeless Kitchen Design Styles

Every year there seems to be a new design trend, one that gains a following and everyone has to have but what happens when it fades in a year or two? Some designs have been known to decrease the value in the home since the buyer would need to do a renovation shortly after purchase. With styles changing so fast, it can be prudent to choose one that is timeless especially if this is not your forever home. Let’s talk about design elements that are timeless and will will create a kitchen that lasts.

Stick with neutrals

Color is one of the most fun design elements but it can also date a kitchen if you are not careful which is why a neutral palette is the safe choice like: 

• Gray: a color of calm, it goes with multiple design styles and pairs well with a variety of wood tones. It also presents a sophisticated vibe in the kitchen and looks great with any number of hardware choices.
• White: always a classic color, white also blends with any design whether it is modern or farmhouse. White is also a great canvas for the owners to add their own flair.
• Natural wood: an organic feel is forever timeless and allows a little bit of nature into the kitchen. Whether stained or natural, both present great timeless options.

Neutrals will never lead you astray and appeal to both homeowners and buyers alike. No matter if you want to sell tomorrow or stay for ten years, choosing from these color selections will ensure your kitchen remains timeless.

Timeless layouts

Layout plays a key role in the function and flow of the kitchen so it is best to create one that works will with multiple styles and needs. Whenever in doubt of a layout, always revert to the kitchen triangle. This consists of the distance between the sink, refrigerator, and stove, this has been a standard in kitchen design. Using this method keeps everything within a close enough proximity and helps make sure food preparation is as simple as possible. See more examples of timeless kitchens here.

Kitchen islands

Still one of the most functional parts of the kitchen, a well thought out kitchen island can be a key selling point in your home. This piece of the kitchen never goes out of style due to it’s versatility. When planning the design, keep these elements in mind:

• Storage: utilizing every inch of space makes this a valuable asset, from push latch cabinets behind the side facing the breakfast bar to open shelves on the end, there is ample room to store items including larger and heavier ones.
• Drawers: this can be a great place to include deep drawers for pots and pans or a trash can pull-out. 
• Appliances: many homeowners enjoy having the dishwasher or microwave built into the island as it keeps the perimeter clear.

Islands are a wonderful, timeless addition to the kitchen and only bring more to the table whether you want to sell or not.

Timeless Countertops

Countertops tend to be something that is noticed right away meaning that a odd choice can decrease the value in a home. Choosing a countertop can be a fun selection, but it is always good to keep in mind a more neutral choice if you are not sure this will be your forever home. While dark countertops make a bold statement they are not for everyone. Chose to stay with ones that are light and have delicate veining patterns. Countertops are one of the most used areas in the kitchen so durability is essential. Choosing one that will last means less updates if you decide to sell later. Some great options include granite and quartzite, both offer plenty of neutral choices and have continued to remain popular with homeowners. 

Kitchen lighting

Definitely an important and practical part of the kitchen design, lighting should be given proper thought when making selections. So much takes place in the kitchen beside cooking, we write our shopping lists, address envelopes, and often the kids do their homework while enjoying a snack. This warrants proper lighting but one that will suit everyone. The two main types of lighting to include are:

• Task lighting: looking to rid your kitchen of shadows, especially under the cabinets? Task lighting provides exactly what you need and is a feature appreciated by potential homebuyers, this is a timeless add on.
• Ambient lighting: the right light fixture can set the tone for the kitchen. Keep in mind the size of your kitchen and island, too much lighting can diminish a good design and not enough means less illumination.

The kitchen is the heart of the home and needs sufficient light to shine on all who are there. Timeless choices are metal and glass but limit the color choices to a more natural tone for an enduring look.

Cabinet style

Your cabinet style is among the top three decisions you will make when designing your kitchen. Modern or contemporary tends to be a more specialty look and is not in high demand on the housing market. If selling is a possibility in the future, choose a more traditional cabinet style such as:

• Shaker: this style features a flat centre panel and square edges, with minimal detailing or profiling. This has remained a popular choice for homeowners.
• Inset: set into the cabinet frame and fit flush with the face of the cabinet when closed, they are often a top pick by our clients. Always elegant and timeless.
• Frameless: this style eliminates the face frame of the cabinets, extending end to end and is another great cabinet style option.

Keep it simple, the more details you add, the more customized you will make the kitchen which is great if this is your forever home but not the best choice when looking to sell in the next few years. Browse through some of our kitchen designs in the traditional style.

Ways to make it yours

A timeless design is a great choice for anyone who does not plan to make this their long term residency. There is, however, a need to make it feel like home for the time you are living there, but how can you make that happen without dampening your selling opportunity? There are several ways to do so like:

• Hardware: one of the simplest ways to add a personal flair to your home but easy for the new owners to change if they don’t like what is there. Coming in an array of finishes, sizes, and styles, it is easy to find what you want.
• Color: hanging a unique painting, placing a few decor pieces on your counters, or adding a couple of specialty items to the kitchen means pops of color that can be easily removed on open house day.
• Rugs: purchase a few rugs that match your style.

Your home is yours and meant to reflect you so don’t be afraid to enjoy your time there by adding decor pieces and specialty things that show what matters to you.

A timeless design

The kitchen will remain one of the top areas in the home and because of this needs to be given proper consideration when in the design phase. Our goal is to help you create a design that is exactly what you need and that means taking the time to listen to each of your needs. If you are looking to flip this home soon or even in a few years, we can help you find the correct design that will ensure you have a house that appeals to multiple buyers but still is perfect for your family as long as necessary. Contact us today, we serve over 16 counties in North and South Carolina.