Exploring different varieties of kitchen built-ins

Vintage kitchen design often contains farmhouse sinks and antique faucets. Additionally, more of these rooms are featuring a range of built-in seating, range hoods and storage options.

Seating
Many kitchens have open floor plans with adjacent seating. To take advantage of a window that boasts a large amount of natural light, some designers incorporate bench seating along this area. This is accomplished by installing built-in wooden structures that match the walls in color and texture. Homeowners can then choose a range of fabric colors and patterns to cover mats and pillows that make this a comfortable seating option.

Hutches
Vintage kitchens often feature built-in hutches to house fine glassware. For a uniform look, choose a style finished in the same treatment as the cabinetry. Or for a contrasting result, you can offset the hutch in a vibrant color. For a truly vintage appearance, distress the paint with sandpaper to add age so it looks like an antique piece. Also, consider storing your wine here in addition to your stemware.

Hoods
With modern technology, kitchens are becoming more functional and safe environments. One way designers are doing this is by outfitting them with range hoods over stove burners. When the appliances are made from stainless steel, the hood is often left untreated so it can match the other pieces in the kitchen. But some contractors build wood covers to keep them out of sight, at the homeowner’s request. In some cases, crown molding or paneling is added to match the look of cabinets.

Appliances
Refrigerators and stoves are also getting the built-in treatment. They are being outfitted with painted wood panels to mimic the cabinetry. In other cases, the unit itself is covered in a similar or contrasting hue to balance with or standout from the rest of the kitchen.