Eternal Style: The Timelessness of Natural Kitchens

Embrace a kitchen makeover that welcomes wood, stone, and an abundance of natural light and greenery.

As the kitchen continues to evolve into the heart of the home, you may find yourself daydreaming about a rejuvenating transformation. What if your kitchen could effortlessly draw in family and friends with its warm, inviting, and natural allure? What if maintaining this natural kitchen was a breeze? Many homeowners who embarked on this journey are now reaping the rewards, as revealed by the National Association of REALTORS® “Remodeling Impact Report,” with homeowners reporting an impressive joy score of 9.8 out of 10.

But there’s more to it than just joy. Remodeling your kitchen can also prove financially rewarding. The report notes that the average cost of a kitchen upgrade stands at $45,000, with an average return of 67%.

Here are six inspiring ideas to infuse your kitchen with a natural charm:

1. Wood Cabinets: The Perfect Blend of Warmth, Durability, and Low Maintenance

While white cabinets still hold their charm, wood tones have surged in popularity among homeowners. The 2021 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study indicates a 2% increase in preference for wood cabinets compared to the previous year. The appeal of wood lies in its ease of cleaning, durability, and its ability to add a touch of warmth. Additionally, wood can be a sustainable choice.

Joe Fava, CEO of Fava Design Group in Miami, highlights the trend toward wood veneer choices, exotic woods, or lighter wood colors. Sustainability matters to the younger generation, while those in their upper 50s and older prioritize aesthetics and material richness.

Wood is versatile and complements various materials and colors, allowing for creative two-toned designs. For those who enjoy switching things up, lighter-colored woods are easier to refinish.

Durable cabinets ensure a longer lifespan, making them a sound investment. Look for drawers constructed with solid wood dovetailed joinery to enhance durability. Open shelving, replacing upper cabinets, can lend a more open and airy feel to your kitchen while providing an opportunity to display collectibles.

2. Light Wood Flooring: A Clean and Fresh Choice

Wood flooring in the kitchen has made a comeback, thanks to improved finishes that resist water and scratches. Lighter shades like white oak have gained popularity due to their clean appearance and ability to conceal dust and dirt. A new wood floor can provide an impressive 118% ROI and a perfect joy score of 10 out of 10, according to the NAR remodeling survey.

Carly Jones, partner with real estate firm Engels & Volkers, emphasizes the desire for kitchens to feel light, fresh, and connected to the outdoors, even when indoors. Light wood flooring aligns perfectly with this vision.

Both solid hardwood and engineered wood have their pros and cons. While hardwood is easy to refinish and repair, it may be prone to contraction and expansion, leading to instability. Engineered wood, with its veneer atop plywood layers, offers enhanced stability but may pose challenges during sanding or refinishing due to the top layer.

3. Natural Stone Countertops: A Perfect Blend of Style and Durability

Natural stone countertops are gaining popularity for their tranquil aesthetics, especially when using large slabs. These versatile materials come in various colors and patterns, beautifully complementing wooden elements in a kitchen.

Quartz countertops offer strength, durability, and ease of maintenance compared to granite. Granite requires annual sealing to prevent liquid absorption and staining. Moreover, granite surfaces can develop small cracks that may worsen if exposed to hot cookware.

Butcher block surfaces have also made a comeback, serving as cutting surfaces that are less likely to shatter dishes upon impact. However, they require bi-annual sanding and oiling to maintain their condition.

Consider installing butcher block surfaces in small areas, such as islands or near sinks, to avoid water damage and create a visually appealing contrast with your primary countertop.

4. Embrace Natural Lighting: Good for Your Mood and Your Space

Indoor living has heightened our appreciation for natural light, and for good reason. Natural light reduces stress, boosts the immune system, and provides a source of vitamin D. Manufacturers are responding to this demand by producing larger door and window frames, enhancing access and views.

5. Handmade Touches and Heirlooms: Personalize Your Space

Texture and handmade elements are making a comeback in kitchen designs. Consider incorporating pieces with a handmade aesthetic, such as artisan-crafted sinks or unique tiles with contoured edges. Personalize your kitchen with family heirlooms or secondhand store finds, adding character and warmth. Older cabinets, reclaimed from stores like Habitat for Humanity ReStore, offer sustainable options. You can also add a touch of nostalgia to your lighting fixtures, transforming them with seashells or repurposed lanterns from flea markets.

6. Greenery: Invite the Outdoors In

Enhance your kitchen’s natural appeal by introducing plants and herbs. These additions not only thrive in different light and temperature conditions but also provide emotional and physical health benefits. Greenery complements wooden cabinets beautifully, especially with kitchens featuring larger windows and glass walls.

For low-maintenance options, consider plants like ZZ and snake plants that thrive on neglect. Introduce greenery gradually to prevent overcrowding and minimize the risk of attracting pests.

Incorporate these six ideas to create a natural kitchen that stands the test of time, offering both aesthetic charm and practicality.