DECORATIVE AND DETAILED
Creating this style of country kitchen – where the features play as much a part as the harder-working functional elements – needs to be carefully thought out. Ideally, the space should be appealing and feel warm and welcoming but remain practical, and the essence of a decorated kitchen can fight with such an ethos. However, there are many ways to balance this.
1 If you use wallpaper, think about where it is placed. It could be restricted to above dado or even picture-rail height so that it won’t get spoiled by grease and steam. Alternatively, use toughened glass to protect it, creating a waterproof splashback, or put it on another wall (easier in an open-plan room), away from the cooker and sink.
2 Adding accessories and decorative items is a great way to introduce character and interest to the room. Display a favourite collection on a shelf or dresser. These could be pieces of studio pottery, kitchenalia or functional items – such as storage jars that are attractive enough to remain on show. Remember to consider where they will be positioned, especially if they are near the work area. Items located near to or above the cooker will need to be regularly taken down and cleaned. Glazed or wire fronted cupboards are a good way to see favourite pieces without having to clean them so often.
3 Soft furnishings are an essential part of a decorative kitchen – they can add warmth and help to soften echoey acoustics. Run fabric over cupboard fronts to create inexpensive cabinets or introduce colour in cushions on chairs and benches. Ensure blinds or café curtains are dry cleanable or machine washable – some fabric companies have collections that are washable – or use utility or dress-weight materials, pre-washed so they don’t shrink once made up
4 An easy way to introduce colour is to use paint on walls, cabinets and units – a low-level soft sheen emulsion that is wipeable is a good choice. For furniture, an eggshell paint that can be cleaned is essential. Dark cabinets are currently fashionable but stoney shades or blues and greens are relaxing in a kitchen; reds and yellows also work well and can be energising. 5 Tiles are the perfect way to introduce both colour and design in a durable, low-maintenance form. Floor tiles or a splashback on walls and above worktops are ideal. Simple geometrics and encaustic tiles that introduce lively pattern are popular at the moment.