Kitchen Cabinets That Exude Classic Style

Merriam-Webster defines the adjective classic as "serving as a standard of excellence"; "traditional, enduring"; and "characterized by simple tailored lines in fashion year after year." In the midst of a recession like the current one, style and appeal that will last for years to come is more important to homeowners than ever before.

It's not surprising then that Kitchen and Bath Design News recently featured "Classic Cabinets" in its Product Trend Report. The article cited a recent survey that revealed "the current economic climate has made today's consumers not only more price sensitive, but has also impacted style and design trends." In particular, "consumers are trending toward simpler, more classic [kitchen cabinet] styles that offer the look and organization they desire, along with good value."

When it comes to kitchen cabinetry the four most important factors currently driving consumers are value, sustainability, function and quality. Enduring classic and simple cabinets are in and here-today, gone-tomorrow cabinetry trends are out. If you're considering remodeling your kitchen, what will make your kitchen cabinets appear classic and therefore more likely to increase your home's value?

1. Clean and simple lines - Shaker door styles in warm rather than contemporary cool tones are topping homeowners' wish lists. Slab kitchen cabinet doors without recessed panels and fancy arches provide this simplicity, as do warm hues like honey spice, caramel and burnished ginger.

2. Less ornamentation - To match the simpler cabinetry, decorative hardware is getting less ornamental as well. That means smooth and tailored finishes are outperforming fancy scrollwork and textured etchings.

3. Materials that exhibit unique and innovative style but in a cost-conscious price range - Textured laminates and refined wood veneers give off a traditional, expensive look without the hefty price tag.

4. Efficient and functional organization - Pull-out storage is all the rage these days. It allows homeowners to get the most out of small kitchens, meaning they don't have to resort to expensive expansions. Sink door storage, roll-out trays, drawers, swing-out pantries and lazy susans are just some of the organizational elements homeowners are building into their kitchen cabinets.

5. Traditional wood species and finishes - Maple, cherry and oak kitchen cabinets never go out of style. Maple is a great choice for creating a dramatic kitchen with darker tones or finishes. Cherry mellows beautifully with age to a handsome darker tone, thereby ensuring your new kitchen cabinets are an investment that will endure the test of time. The timeless beauty of oak blends with many different designs, making it a versatile wood species for years to come.

6. Painted finishes - Homeowners are no longer willing to settle for anything less than exactly what they want. As a result, "Consumers are requesting specific hues that are just a few shades from standard offerings," one article expert explains.

7. Specialty finishes - An extension of the not-settling theme, glazes, distressing and crackling give brand new kitchen cabinets a timeless look and feel.

8. Environmental consciousness - "It's becoming standard - a must - to belong to a certification program that validates green and environmental sustainability, such as KCMA's Environmental Stewardship Program," says another expert.