Here’s an article by Jaclyn Crawford for Improvenet.com on styling tips for an all white kitchen.
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If you’re looking at inspiration for your kitchen remodel, you’ve likely come across plenty of photos that include a lot of white. From countertops to tile backsplashes, the all-white kitchen is in demand.
But is this a trend or will it be a timeless look that will last forever? The great part about an all-white kitchen is that you can use décor items and features that will stand out. If you’re curious to see if this look will work for you, here’s how to style your all-white kitchen.
White Kitchen Ideas
It’s easy to fall in love with an all-white kitchen. The clean, sleek look is one that can transition well over time and be a welcoming space for all. In recent years, they’ve gained a lot of attention through home design shows andPinterest. Though, it isn’t exactly a new trend.
“White kitchens have been around for a very long time, especially when it comes to cabinetry,” Emily Hoefler, kitchen and bath specialist at Renovations Group Inc, said. “They have definitely gained popularity in recent years and I see people selecting that look a lot more than stained cabinets and contrasting countertops. I think it’s a look that will always be popular and won’t go out of style any time soon.”
With that in mind, here are a few kitchen areas you’ll want to pay attention to if you’re remodeling to an all-white kitchen:
- Kitchen Backsplash
- Kitchen Sink
- Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
- Kitchen Countertop Material
- Kitchen Faucet Finish
White Kitchen Mistakes
What usually stops homeowners from deciding on an all-white kitchen is learning how to make it work. Often, they’ll think that a white kitchen will help them brighten up a dark room, but that might not always be the case. Hoefler says it’s a mistake she sees.
“Homeowners think that white means bright and that’s not necessarily true,” she said. “If you don’t have natural light, you need to add some other form of brighter lighting or the room will look gray and gloomy. White definitely helps brighten up a space, but light is what makes it really shine.”
Additionally, you can make a mistake in an all-white kitchen if you don’t use the right shade. White is not one flat color but can come in various tones that can sometimes clash if not used appropriately.
“All shades of white do not go together,” Hoefler said. “Some whites are warmer, some are cooler. Some can have pink undertones while others have yellow. Once all of those shades are next to each other in the same space, it will become obvious if they’re not all in the same tone family. You don’t have to use all of the same color white, but make sure you pay attention to the undertones.”
Incorporating Color & Texture In White Kitchens
Just because you have a white kitchen doesn’t mean you can’t add a little bit of color or texture here and there. In fact, the neutral backdrop will help the colors really pop. You can do so with some of the smaller details you add.
“I see so many homeowners want to pick white countertops, white cabinets, white subway backsplash, and they don’t have any contrast in the kitchen,” she said. “The eye needs something to break up the palette. Whether it’s in the décor you choose to put on the walls or counters, or a contrasting backsplash tile to permanently give some contrast, there should be something to break it all up and give some interest.”
Various textures and colors can make your white kitchen go from sterile to cozy quickly. A small piece of wall art or a few kitchen countertop accessoriesis an easy way to get a beautiful look in your kitchen.
White Kitchen Cleaning Tips
When I think of white kitchens, I automatically worry about the inevitable stains and dirt that will occur, as I’m sure many other homeowners do. However, it doesn’t take much more than a regular kitchen. Having a regular kitchen cleaning routine after cooking your last meal of the day can help significantly. This can include:
- Wipe down all cabinet and countertop surfaces.
- Sweep and quickly mop the floor.
- Removing any spills or splatters from the backsplash.
- Clean the surface of the stove
Hoefler also suggests that choosing your materials carefully when remodeling your white kitchen can help in keeping a clean appearance.
“Pay attention to the materials you’re using,” she said. “More porous materials, like natural stone, will stain. Make sure to keep up with resealing any surfaces that need it on schedule. Some sealers need to be done every five years, others can last longer. Keeping surfaces sealed prevents them from looking dirtier than they are. Believe it or not, lighter colored horizontals surfaces are more forgiving than darker ones. As long as there is enough of a pattern on floors or countertops, they won’t actually look as dirty as a darker surface of the same type. Dust especially won’t be as obvious, so you might be doing yourself a favor going white in the long run.”
Conclusion
You can have a light and lovely all-white kitchen that will be stylish for years to come. Use a few of these tips to help keep it clean and looking great!