8 Classic Kitchen Ideas That Will Never Go Out of Style

There are loads of ways to decorate a kitchen: you can make the room bold and eclectic, rustic and cozy, breezy and coastal, or surprisingly glam. And while all these options are worth considering, there’s something irresistible about designing—and spending time in—a classic kitchen.

Classic kitchens take cues from the kitchens that came before them. They’re filled with traditional cabinetry and quality materials. They’re lined with ornate trim and other historic details. And they’re dressed up with enduring accents, like striking window treatments, printed rugs, and full-blown works of art.

These designer-made classic kitchens range from sleek and simple to dramatic and opulent. But in every iteration, they’re elegant, traditional, and timelessly stylish—exactly the kinds of places you want to cook, host, and spend time in.

01 Keep It Simple With an All-White Palette

of 08

There are lots of ways to craft a classic kitchen, but one of the easiest is to start with a timeless palette. Paint your walls and cabinets white, and stick with classic hardwood floors. The palette will immediately set the tone in your space, giving you a classic canvas to work with as you layer in fixtures and décor.

02 Hang a Classic Chandelier

of 08

Vintage Glamour Black Iron Chandelier with Grey Glass Beads and Crystal Droplets - Circular Iron Frame with Black Finish and Vintage Glamour - Ideal for Ceiling Lamp for Bedroom and Dining Room Light Fixtures

Chandeliers aren’t appropriate for every kitchen—but in a classic kitchen, they feel right at home. Keep an eye out for something that looks genuinely vintage, and don’t be afraid to go understated. Since chandeliers are so showstopping, you can stick with something subtle and still make a statement.

03 Invest in Kitchen Window Treatments

of 08

Window treatments are a must in any classic space—your kitchen, included. So spring for a set of printed curtains that bring the room together. Or keep it simple with a set of classic white blinds.

04 Line Your Walls With Art

of 08

Art may not be the first thing you reach for when decorating your kitchen. But it should be, especially if you want your space to feel classic. Keep an eye out for paintings, drawings, and photographs that’ll dress up your kitchen, and consider slipping them inside some lovely antique frames.

05 Snag a Truly Striking Stove

of 08

When shopping for a stove, function is the main priority. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice form. By snagging a retro stove, you can add nostalgia and style to your kitchen—making it feel both more classic and more stylish.

06 Trade Sconces for Picture Lights

of 08

Brass Glow Mid-Century Glass Globe Wall Sconce - Two-Toned Metal and Handblown Clear Glass for Bedroom, Living Room, and Outdoor Lighting

When it comes to lighting kitchen shelves, sconces and recessed lights are popular picks. But don’t overlook picture lights. Since the mounted lights are typically used to illuminate paintings, they’ll make an elegant addition to your kitchen. And they’ll give you all the light you need to brighten up your shelves.

07 Tuck a Dining Nook Inside Your Kitchen

of 08

Pressed for eat-in space in your kitchen? Tuck a dining nook inside it. By stocking up on classic bistro furniture, you can transport yourself to the streets of Paris every time you step foot in your kitchen.

08 Finish Things Off With Antique Hardware

of 08

Want to put the finishing touches on your classic kitchen? Install some antique hardware. Replace all your knobs, handles, and pulls with vintage options. And consider leaving them unpolished. The aged details will make your kitchen look like it's decades old—even if you just redecorated it this year.