Classic White/Off-White Kitchens are Clearly a “Standard” and a “Rage”!!

“The all-white kitchen set the style for the first decade of the 21st century. It’s the ‘manor house’ look modernized and marketed by English kitchen Sales Design Consultant Christopher Peacock, which draws directly from English kitchens of 100 years earlier.” Excerpt from Renovation Style

Described as “classic,” “timeless,” or “elegant,” an all-white kitchen has an unmistakable impact. Yet it clearly can transcend and refresh itself, and continues to shine, by combining modern interpretations or newer trends within itself. A solid part of the market over the last several decades, white kitchens perform well and are versatile enough to accommodate personal tastes. It can be transitional enough to flow, from an owner with a “contemporary flair” to an owner with an “old-world” eye, depending on desires and decorating. While the white kitchen often holds up as a showpiece on it’s own, the reality in terms of function is that it also holds up to daily life and the functions that current kitchens (and baths) demand.

For someone trying to debate the market force of the classic white kitchen, review current magazines. The 2011 Spring/Summer issue of “Elegant Homes” has 56% of their kitchen choices in White, while the 2010 NKBA Design Competition Winners has eight kitchens out of the 12 winners in Classic White. Plus, remember the hoopla that was created from the white kitchen in the movie “Something’s Gotta Give.” This lead to thousands of website searches, and even the worst critics of “white” understand it’s universal appeal.

In terms of technical information or design issues with white kitchens, not all houses are an appropriate architectural fit. Milwaukee Bungalow or Prairie Kitchens generally feature wood stained cabinets. Therefore, these homes are better fitted with colors that compliment the wood stain. In addition, a poorly painted white set of cabinets will actually de-value a home more than a good set of stained cabinets. A good Sales Design Consultant will help you fit your home accordingly.

In addition, always choose a high quality manufacturer for white cabinetry with factory finishes and door styles, as these companies provide exceptional warranties and better finished product. Note – always choose a better wood under the white paint, such as maple. Maple allows a cleaner finish on the top (paint lays flat and clean), and is more dimensionally stable than other woods, which means there won’t be gaps at cabinet joints showing up down the road from air and temperature changes.

A white kitchen is lovely, well defined, neutral, and easy to update if it starts feeling worn-out. It’s partially a back to basics mentality brought about by the current economy, where the desire for a bright and cheerful kitchen design that will flawlessly span decades, makes it almost a requirement. If you choose it, your new All-White Kitchen will be able to re-invent itself for years to come.