Traditional kitchens can be recognized by the detail and flourishes in their construction. Ornamental trim such as crown and/or rope molding are a simple way to get this timeless look. Columns, curves and arches add architectural flair for a hand-built appearance. Corbels  and valences are excellent ways to smooth the stark lines of cabinetry. The primary source of detail and

Still formal, less elegant and ornate, the core of cottage style is painted wood.  The smooth colors make a little carving go a long way, so arches and ornamentation are left behind.  It is a clean, refreshing look that evokes simplicity, so solid colors and subtle details are key. In love with cottage style but aren’t sure how to bring

Contemporary is a more playful version of modern. It’s a great option for those who love sleek lines, solid silhouettes and a near zen-like simplicity. Wood can be quite at home in this style. The grain of the wood is either minimized to keep the focus on simple shapes, or highlighted to emphasize the lines, even sometimes turned horizontally to

Vintage/Retro  -> Modern  -> Contemporary From the late 40s through the 50s, smooth colorful easy-to-clean surfaces reigned supreme. Retro style kitchens can be very playful, as daring designs are what established the concepts of shape and contrast that would come to bear in the modern design movement. Designers started experimenting with sleeker shapes and lines, smoothing one area of the kitchen