Designing the ideal kitchen typically involves adhering to a specific layout, choosing matching cabinetry, and selecting appealing colors and materials. However, in 2023, embracing a mix-and-match approach is becoming increasingly popular, infusing kitchens with contemporary flair and vibrant energy.
The kitchen serves as a vital space in any home, functioning as a busy hub for daily tasks and a social gathering spot for family and friends. We consulted kitchen and interior designers to share insights on how to effectively mix and match cabinet styles to reflect your personal taste while fulfilling the kitchen's essential role.
Selecting Mix-and-Match Cabinets
Corey Damen Jenkins, an interior designer based in New York, notes, 'Mixing materials often creates a more engaging look than uniformity.' With the help of leading kitchen designers, we explore how to craft an attractive kitchen that showcases diverse cabinet shapes, sizes, and styles, utilizing a variety of cabinet colors or materials for an original touch.
1. Experiment with Color
Incorporating color into your kitchen design is a smart and impactful strategy. Different hues can draw attention to various kitchen sections, adding depth and drama to the space.
Alan Drumm, director at Uncommon Projects in London, explains his color philosophy: 'We aim for intentionality in our designs. When using multiple colors, each shade highlights distinct kitchen elements. For instance, sliding doors may showcase a vibrant hue, while base and tall units feature a more neutral tone, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.'
2. Blend Vintage and Modern Styles
Merging different architectural styles in your cabinetry can complement both modern and traditional homes, allowing you to include various forms you admire.
To achieve this look, consider pairing freestanding antique or vintage pieces with contemporary cabinetry. You might also opt for a diverse range of joinery styles. When installing cabinets, think about incorporating antique tables, wall cupboards, or unique armoires to enrich your kitchen's character.
3. Mismatch Upper and Lower Cabinets
Combining different materials and finishes is a great way to accommodate differing tastes if you and your partner can't agree on cabinet styles or colors. Cabinets can vary in material, color, shape, and style, as seen in this Virginia kitchen designed by Corey Damen Jenkins.
Corey describes his selection process: 'We blend painted surfaces with white oak, brass, and polished nickel, along with darker finishes for a compelling visual effect, avoiding a washed-out or overly dark look. Thoughtful diversity in finishes adds levity and visual interest.'
4. Mix and Match Materials
Using a variety of materials in your kitchen can create an exciting and dynamic atmosphere. Today's options allow you to experiment with different materials for cabinetry, work surfaces, and islands, including recycled plastics, timber, industrial metals, and stone.
Mat Barnes, director at CAN, incorporated original building elements like exposed brickwork and recycled plastics to achieve an industrial aesthetic. 'Don't fret about clashes; focus on each element individually, and the overall look will come together. Just ensure technical performance aligns with your intended use,' he advises.
5. Opt for Contrasting Cabinets
Utilizing contrasting cabinet designs is an effective way to transform a basic kitchen into a spectacular space. Each design element can complement features throughout your home, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.
Alan Drumm from Uncommon Projects shares his approach: 'We created base cabinetry with classic plywood edges and introduced a striped door style for the wall units, echoing the stair balustrade design. Tall units incorporate paneled patterns reminiscent of traditional doors, adding unique character.'
6. Coordinate Your Colors
'We love when clients embrace mix-and-match cabinets in their kitchen designs. Using contrasting colors or bold shades infuses playfulness into the space,' says Elizabeth Sherwin, creative director at Naked Kitchens.
Linking your favorite colors with furniture, plants, books, and lighting choices creates a harmonious connection within a diverse palette.
7. Vary Your Hardware
Update your cabinets with innovative hardware choices. Consider pairing a portrait handle with wall cabinets and a landscape handle for base units for a chic yet simple touch.
Summer Thornton, a Chicago-based designer, emphasizes timelessness through curation: 'I often mix various metal finishes, cabinetry styles, and wood types. This approach creates a collected, timeless feel that spans different eras.'
8. Blend Glass and Wood for a Modern Rustic Aesthetic
Incorporating both glass and wood in cabinetry can create a beautiful mix. This may include Shaker-style cabinets alongside glazed wall units.
Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens, notes, 'Combining pieces from various ranges is always favorable in our book.' The natural wood's warmth and the dining table connect differing styles, while marble on the island enhances cohesion.
9. Customize Your Kitchen
Your kitchen should narrate your unique story through objects and style. A mix-and-match approach allows for playful creativity using architectural elements and color.
Catrina Stewart from architectural studio Office S&M describes using color as a means to guide the eye through the space, creating surprise and emphasizing the kitchen as a focal point. 'We used various colors to accentuate architectural features and create an engaging viewpoint,' she explains.
10. Use Freestanding Cabinets in Two Color Schemes
Selecting striking, freestanding cabinets can introduce warmth and charm to your kitchen. Choose two complementary colors to enhance the desired atmosphere and unify the look through artwork, shelving, and dishware.
Can You Use Different Cabinet Styles in One Kitchen?
Absolutely! We advocate for this modern aesthetic. A mix-and-match kitchen is exhilarating, offering endless possibilities to incorporate various architectural and design elements, as well as colors, hardware, and materials. Embracing this style showcases your creativity, making your kitchen truly one-of-a-kind.
