Designing or renovating your kitchen is one of the biggest investments you can make in your home, so it makes sense to think longterm. It’s hard to believe we started renovating our kitchen almost eight years ago. Nearly a decade later, I still love the aesthetic and functionality of the space. Because I approached the process with longevity in mind, today- it still feels classic, functional, and relevant. I credit that to making thoughtful and timeless design choices from the start. In this post, I’m sharing how I designed a traditional kitchen that doesn’t feel dated, the kitchen design principles that stand the test of time (no matter your style), and my best tips for creating a space you’ll love for years (or even decades) to come.
If you’re seeing this post and it’s not in the cards for you to fully renovate your kitchen at this time, hop over and give this post a read… 10 budget-friendly ways to instantly refresh your kitchen. I shared designer tips that can be done with little money and minimal effort, but make a big visual impact. Sometimes a refresh is all you need- start there! Otherwise, if you’re scheming a full-scale kitchen renovation or are designing a kitchen from scratch for your new build, this post is for you…
Why Timeless Kitchen Design Should Be Your Top Priority
Kitchens are the heart of the home, and they’re also one of the most expensive rooms to renovate. While it may seem obvious, allow me state my case on why you should avoid trendy kitchen design elements and choose timeless options instead… you can:
- Avoid costly remodels every few years
- Ensure your kitchen ages gracefully
- Enjoy a high functioning space with ample storage
- Increase the resale value of your home
- Create a space that feels personal, yet classic
How I Designed a Classic Kitchen That Still Feels Current
When we renovated our kitchen, I focused on a few key elements that were important to me and wouldn’t look dated over time. These were my top priorities, but this list will fluctuate based on your personal preferences…
- Cabinetry: I chose standard overlay cabinetry, with traditional paneled doors, painted in a dark neutral (almost navy). It feels traditional but still very versatile.
- Countertops: Soapstone was a splurge, but it’s my favorite durable natural stone… which gets better with age and patina.
- Plumbing Fixtures: I went with classic polished nickel, which always feels elegant and timeless. I also invested in quality fixtures from Rohl.
- Backsplash: I knew I wanted a handmade tile in a neutral color that would withstand wear, providing a timeless and organic backdrop for our kitchen.
- Layout: Functionality was my top priority. We mapped out a flow that works for cooking, hosting, and everyday life.
Nearly a decade later, I wouldn’t change a single thing about those core kitchen elements. I’d encourage you to make a list of your top five priorities. Are they trendy or having a moment? Do you see these often? Why- or why not?
Tips for Designing a Kitchen With Longevity in Mind
I’ve designed countless kitchens for myself and for clients… if you’re in the midst of planning your kitchen renovation, here are my tried-and-true designer tips:
1. Prioritize Classic Materials
Stick to the classics… natural stone, solid wood, and timeless metals (like antique brass, nickel, or bronze). Those will never go out of style.
2. Opt for a Historic Palette
The best paint colors have been around for ages. You can go in a couple directions when it comes to cabinetry color… soft neutrals for an easy foundation that allows you to easily change accessories- or deeper hues that are a bit moody and dramatic. Either way, I’d encourage you to look to historic palettes and paint decks. These swatches have been repeated throughout history and will stand the test of time. Here are my top paint color picks for dark kitchen cabinets.
3. Consider Your Cabinetry
Whether you choose an overlay or inset cabinetry door style (both are great, in my opinion)… be sure to choose a profile and panel style that is consistent with the millwork and architectural style of your home. When in doubt, keep it simple with traditional or shaker style panels- rather than slab or arched panels.
4. Focus on Quality Hardware & Fixtures
From cabinetry hardware to lighting and plumbing fixtures, this is a great place to select finishes that feel substantial and refined. Invest in brands you trust, that have a nice weight to them. If you’re unsure what hardware you need (or where to install it), save this post… cabinetry hardware placement guide (with easy examples).
5. Prioritize a Functional Layout
No matter how beautiful, a poorly functioning kitchen will never feel classic. It’s difficult to fix an awkward layout that just doesn’t flow. Be sure to save these kitchen dimensions every designer knows! I put together a guide with all the dimensions and layout suggestions. Be sure to consider storage, the work triangle, door & drawer clearance, and everyday usability. Once you’ve got that dialed in, optimize it with aesthetically pleasing kitchen storage and organization.
6. Invest in Quality Appliances
Don’t make the mistake I made in my own kitchen. This is one of the only things we’ve had to update since renovating our kitchen… the range. Do your research on appliances and choose options for the long haul. This has been such a hot topic in our kitchen and a costly mistake, so I decided to write proper reviews for each:
- An Honest Review of the GE Cafe Range (do NOT recommend)
- An Honest Review of the Big Chill Classic Range (highly recommend)
7. Choose Finishes Wisely
Not all metals and finishes are created equal. Which finishes will still be in style 10 years from now? My top recommendations are polished nickel, bronze, and antique brass (in that order). I’d stay far away from matte black. Is brass out? I wrote a post on how polished nickel is replacing the favorite metal… it may be worth a read.
8. Pick a Countertop That Ages Well
Consider your countertop carefully. Choose a stone that ages well and is durable… I’m partial to natural stone. These posts and resources should be helpful when it comes to your countertop selection:
- The Difference Between Natural Stones
- How to Select Different Countertop Edge Profiles
- How to Darken Soapstone Countertops
- How to Choose a Marble Slab for Your Renovation
- What to Know About Solid Surface Countertops (Pros & Cons)
9. Select Timeless Light Fixtures
Be smart about your lighting plan and choosing fixtures that will withstand the test of time. These posts should be helpful- be sure to give them a read:
- Guide for Properly Lighting a Kitchen
- Designer Light Fixtures That Will Never Go Out of Style
- Tips for Layering Lighting Like a Designer
- Designer Trick : Light Temperature & Bulbs
10. Mix New & Old
While this can easily be changed and updated as your style evolves, it’s worth noting- mix old and new as you’re styling your finished kitchen. Incorporating vintage or traditional elements keeps your kitchen from feeling too sterile while adding character. It’s really the finishing touch for a classic aesthetic!
Renovate Your Kitchen First
I’d also like to make a case for renovating your kitchen first. When it comes to order of operations for your home renovation, if you’re working in phases… prioritize your kitchen. Why? Updating your kitchen not only increases your happiness at home, but also your return on investment, the functionality of your home, and it’s the room where we spend the majority of our time (second to the bedroom).
FAQ: Ask a Kitchen Designer
Marble has been used in kitchens for centuries. It’s a natural material that develops patina, which only adds to its character… I think it will always be a safe and beautiful bet. Check out this post on how to choose a marble slab for your renovation! I’m walking you through the process.
It was a standard color from Diamond Cabinets (Maritime), but see the breakdown here… where I was color matching our kitchen cabinets using a variety of popular paint brands.
It’s actually a budget island from Lowe’s… but with some updates. Check out this post with my ideas for customizing a kitchen island or cart!
Oooh… tough question! Probably concealed trash. There is nothing I hate more than a bulky (and smelly) trash bin taking up floor space. Check out this post on how to install a hidden kitchen trash can. That’s definitely essential, and it’s so easy!
I wrote all about our water filtration system here… and shared the research I gathered before we decided on it.
Related Kitchen Posts
Timeless design doesn’t mean boring- it means thoughtful. Invest in elements that feel true to your style and choose details that won’t feel outdated after the latest trend cycle. Trends will always come and go, but a classic kitchen will feel grounded, functional, and beautiful year after year. Here are some more kitchen posts that will be helpful during your kitchen renovation journey…
- The Kitchen Dimensions Every Designer Knows (And You Should Save)
- My Top Paint Color Picks for Dark Kitchen Cabinets
- Cabinetry Hardware Placement Guide (With Easy Examples)
- How to Replace & Upgrade Your Cabinet Doors
- Easy Smart Home Kitchen Cabinet Lighting Ideas
- An Honest Review of the Big Chill Classic Range
- How to Select Different Countertop Edge Profiles
- 15 Aesthetically Pleasing Kitchen Storage & Organization Ideas
- 10 Budget-Friendly Ways to Instantly Refresh Your Kitchen
- Is Brass Out? How Polished Nickel is Replacing The Favorite Metal
Designing a timeless kitchen isn’t about playing it safe- it’s about making intentional, well-researched choices that you’ll still love years down the road. I’ve never regretted investing in quality materials, a functional layout, and classic details in our kitchen. It’s proof that a space designed with longevity in mind can feel just as relevant a decade later as it did on day one. Did you find this post helpful? I hope so! Feel free to share this post with a friend who is renovating their kitchen, or save it for later! Let me know if you have any questions in the comment section below.
The post How I Designed a Classic Kitchen That Still Feels Timeless appeared first on Room For Tuesday.
