Give the country-style kitchen a modern twist that is perfect for urbanites.

Start with a white background

Cosy and homely are just some of the words that describe the popular country-style kitchen. White is the go-to colour in the country-style kitchen for the sense of spaciousness it brings. That said, there are many whites to choose from. For an inviting feel, go for whites with warm undertones. Also, look for soothing colours like powdery shades of blue or grey. If you like a bright and upscale look, complete the kitchen with marble-like quartz countertops.

Image credit: Silestone

Put things on display

Unlike contemporary and minimalist kitchens, country-style kitchens are all about having that lived-in quality. Regularly used cookware and kitchen tools can be put on display for the purpose of easy reach. At the same time, these items also contribute to the entire look. But even as tastes evolve towards a cosier aesthetic, urbanites still desire to keep things pared down and streamlined. So, to avoid visual clutter, ensure that everything has its place. For example, optimise your wall space with a plate shelf for your daily tableware. Hooks are great for tea towels and things like ladles and spatulas but keep them minimal.

Image credit: IKEA

Go for Shaker-style accents

What’s a defining feature of the country-style kitchen? The cabinet design. Shaker cabinet doors are constructed with four panels, which form a frame around a larger, recessed panel. Named after the Shakers, an 18th-century community of people who value simplicity and utility, this style of construction has an enduring appeal. While Shaker cabinets are typically white, you can give it a fresh spin with colours that reflect your personal style. Avoid garish colours, though, and go for muted hues instead. Colours like deep red, black and grey work too and they go well with dark wood. This aligns with the changing preference for darker colours.

Image credit: DB Studio

Make wood your material of choice

Traditionally, wooden furnishings and woodworking are a mainstay of country-style kitchens. Consider introducing wooden elements for that cosy, homely feel. It can be anything from wooden cabinet knobs or stools for the island to wooden display shelves or photo frames. Or why not a wood-topped portable island that is perfect for breakfast?

Image credit: IKEA

Or opt for wood-inspired dupes

Nothing beats wooden flooring for that homespun look. With the possibility of spills and minor accidents, wood would not be a practical flooring option for the kitchen. Hyper-realistic wood-like tiles let you move closer to the authentic look and enjoy functionality as well. Large, plank-like wood tiles are perfect for spacious kitchens. You can also go for chevron patterns for an updated look. As for colours, dark wood tones can help ground a space while light wood tones open up small spaces visually.

Image credit: Hafary

It’s okay to embrace imperfections

When it comes to the country style, it’s time to throw away any ideas of having a sleek kitchen. Every element matters, including your wall tiles. Instead of smooth tiles or a glass backsplash, look for something textured and uneven. The sheen on these tiles elevates the surface with its splash of polish and also serves to reflect light into the kitchen.

Image credit: Hafary

Rustic textures add character

Not enough can be said about introducing textures into the space. Weathered furniture and accessories are hallmarks of the country-style kitchen. However, if you have any doubts over having them in your urban home, you can introduce them in other impermanent or practical ways such as the Rustic collection of tableware from Luzerne. The earthy hues and textures of the tableware are perfect for breaking bread over conversations in an intimate setting.

Image credit: Luzerne

Mix classic with modern

When all is said and done, don’t worry about uniformity for the modern country-style kitchen. After all, the aim is to have a breezy and effortless look. So, free up your creativity and embellish your Shaker-style cabinets with a mix of knobs and handles. And if you want to introduce wood into a compact space, there’s no need to go for a heavy presence of wood. A slim worktop with wood patterns like this one from EDL Compact makes the cut. It also frees up visual space for stylish touches in your compact kitchen.

Image credit: EDL

This was adapted from an article originally written by Rossara Jamil published in IdealHomes vol. 11