Traditional kitchens – why they work in homes of all eras

When you picture a traditional handmade kitchen, you may imagine a design that’s steeped in history, a little dated or only suited to an older property. But the truth is, homeowners today are being drawn to traditional kitchen cabinetry for homes of all eras, from classic to contemporary – and here’s why.

Why do traditional kitchens still resonate in modern homes?

The timelessness and enduring style of a traditional kitchen is one of the key reasons they’re so popular in UK homes today. As a handmade kitchen is a significant investment, choosing a design that won’t date is often high on the priority list. A Shaker kitchen, for example, may have been popular since the 18^th century, but this clean and simple look means it’s also very versatile and lends itself to homes of different styles.

A traditional bespoke kitchen offers real opportunity for personalisation. When your kitchen is being designed and made for your home, you can add modern details that work for your lifestyle to a heritage style kitchen – whether that’s a place to do homework or the perfect entertainment area. Traditional styles are also often seen as homely and welcoming, so this style ticks all the boxes for creating an open-plan space that’s the heart of the home.

So what defines traditional cabinetry?

Traditional cabinetry designs include Shaker, in-frame and panelled – styles with refined details, that stand the test of time. In-frame kitchens, for example, were popular in the early 1900s yet look completely relevant today. These kitchens can also feature decorative features – like mouldings, beading and ornate hardware. Touches that add attention to detail and a hand-crafted feel – a far cry from ultra-minimal modern kitchens with the pared-back look.

But look a little deeper and tradition can also refer to the craft behind the cabinets. At Davonport, our kitchens are the definition of quality, thanks to the time-honoured methods we use to build our cabinets – from the mortise and tenon joints in our frames to the dovetail joints in drawers.

Which traditional storage features still serve modern life?

A pantry is probably one of the most traditional storage features in a kitchen. However, the demand for useful, spacious and versatile storage means they’ve never been more popular. Behind the doors, you can add tailored areas for the storage of specific items, like seasonings, bottles or baking essentials. Or create a walk-in pantry, which stores food as well as small appliances, freeing up space in your kitchen. A traditional pantry can also have a specialist function – like a breakfast station, a coffee area or even a drinks cabinet.

While open shelves were part of traditional kitchen design, today they can take on a more decorative role – for displaying favourite ornaments, plants or artwork. And glazed cupboards have retained their popularity, thanks to their ability to show off glassware or crockery but to keep it dust free.

How do appliances integrate into a traditional kitchen?

While a state-of-the art coffee machine, warming drawer or downdraft extractor might not be your typical traditional kitchen appliance, it doesn’t mean you have to forgo the modern luxuries if you opt for a more classic look. The beauty of a bespoke kitchen is that your designer can integrate the electricals of your dreams behind handcrafted doors to ensure that you have the functionality you want, without compromising the look.

A pantry – walk-in or cupboard style – is a great spot to house smaller appliances so they’re handy yet out of sight. But if you don’t want to hide appliances away, you could juxtapose ultra-modern equipment against a traditional kitchen backdrop with stunning results. And a Qooker tap, in the style of your choice, is an easy switch from a standard tap, delivering contemporary convenience to a classic setting.

What materials and finishes elevate traditional design?

Aside from the wood used to craft your cabinets, the feel of a traditional kitchen can be upgraded by choosing hardware, splashbacks and worktops made from luxury materials. From richly-veined marble, elegant granite and sleek Quartz to characterful woods, like oak or walnut, these sought-after materials are the perfect choice for island tops and work surfaces.

While the finish of your taps and handles can give your space a wholly traditional or more trend-led feel – look at brass, bronze, brushed nickel and more. Glass can also add polish and sophistication to a classic kitchen. Things like Crittal windows or reeded glass are both deeply rooted in the past – but are amongst the most-wanted features in kitchens today.

At Davonport, traditional kitchens have always played a key role in the collections we offer. Our heritage lies in timeless British-made kitchens, and our range encapsulates some of the most enduring looks around.