Introduction
A Greek Revival style home is a classic choice for those who appreciate architectural history. This week’s featured kitchen lies in the heart of a gorgeous Greek Revival residence built in the 1830s. The homeowners cherished the historic charm of the house and wanted to preserve its character. At the same time, they needed a kitchen that met the demands of a modern family. The result is a stunning space that blends old and new seamlessly.
An Overview of Greek Revival Architecture
Before diving into the details of this featured kitchen renovation, it helps to understand the key features of Greek Revival architecture:
- Symmetry – Greek Revival homes have a very formal, symmetrical shape. The front facade features balanced windows and a central door.
- Columns – Large columns often grace the front entryway, made of thick materials like stone or wood. Columns reflect Greek temple architecture.
- Pediments – Triangular pediments sit above porches and windows. Pediments are a nod to classic Greek design.
- Molding – Elaborate trim work and crown molding reflect the Greek aesthetic inside and out.
- Neutral color palette – Soft white, tan, grey and blue are common exterior Greek Revival colors.
- High ceilings – Soaring ceilings increase the grandeur of Greek Revival interiors.
This stunning 1830s home has all the hallmarks of classic Greek Revival style, from its columned front porch to the symmetrical layout and pediments. The new kitchen seamlessly matches the home’s historical pedigree.
Blending Old and New
The homeowners faced a challenge in updating the kitchen without sacrificing old-world charm. Here are some ways they bridged past and present:
Materials
- Wood cabinetry, granite counters, and ceramic tile connect with the home’s original materials.
- Stainless steel appliances and accent lighting incorporate modern touches.
Layout
- The space takes advantage of the home’s existing bones like tall ceilings and oversized windows.
- New island and perimeter cabinetry suit family needs without altering layout.
Style
- Crisp white cabinetry paired with dark granite countertops create a timeless aesthetic.
- Molding on upper cabinets and arched valances over the windows link to Greek Revival details.
- Sconces, pendants, and chandelier choices nod to traditional lighting fixtures.
Function
- Double wall ovens, a gas cooktop, and high-end appliances satisfy modern cooking demands.
- Abundant counter space and new workspace storage aid food prep and organization.
- Open shelving provides a workaround to lack of wall space for upper cabinets.
This kitchen remodeling demonstrates how to revitalize a historic home while staying true to its unique spirit. The owners achieved harmony between past style and current needs.
Kitchen of the Week: History Lives in a Greek Revival
Let’s look at how the owners preserved heritage while gaining a family-friendly kitchen with this thoughtful renovation.
Preserving Architectural Details
Some of the home’s original features includes:
- Arched windows along two walls which fill the kitchen with natural light
- Tall ceilings with simple crown molding
- Plaster walls
- Hardwood floors
The owners took care to maintain these architectural details. For example, they retained the room’s plaster walls instead of installing drywall. The new molding on the cabinetry and valances over the windows align with the existing trim style. And refinishing the hardwood floors enriched their patina.
Selecting Complementary Materials
The material palette combines natural textures and classic choices fitting the home’s style:
- Cabinetry: Custom stained wood cabinets with raised panel doors and molding details tie to the home’s woodwork. Crisp white paint suits the light interior versus dark cabinetry.
- Countertops: Honed granite countertops in a muted tone contrast the bright cabinets while coordinating with the home’s natural materials.
- Backsplash: Ceramic subway tiles in soft white maintain the timeless vibe. Their rectangular shape mirrors the windows.
- Flooring: Refinished heart pine floors glow with an aged patina that sets off the new kitchen.
The mix feels upscale yet casual, blending seamlessly with the existing architecture.
Laying Out Cabinets and Work Zones
The new kitchen has been thoughtfully arranged into work zones:
- Perimeter cabinetry lines two walls, providing storage for dishes, food, and small appliances.
- The large island offers additional counter space and cabinets.
- Open shelving replaces upper cabinets on one wall due to limited space. The shelving displays pretty dishware.
- The cooking zone has the stainless range, ovens, and vent hood centered on one wall with open countertop space on both sides.
The layout accommodates multiple cooks with flexible workspace. And the homeowners gained storage while minimizing wall cabinets to keep the architecture visible.
Incorporating Modern Conveniences
To support a busy family, the homeowners focused on function by adding:
- Pro-style range – A 6-burner gas range with griddle simplifies cooking large meals.
- Double ovens – The wall ovens allow baking two dishes simultaneously.
- Quiet vent hood – A remote fan system with ducted range hood prevents noise and grease buildup.
- Appliance garage – Cabinets next to the range house small appliances to keep the counters clutter-free.
- Farmhouse sink – An oversized deep sink adds charm while aiding cleanup.
- Pull-out trash cabinet – Hidden garbage storage in the island simplifies recycling and trash collection.
By tucking must-have amenities like the ovens and sink out of sightlines, the kitchen gains convenience while maintaining its harmonious aesthetic.
Harmonizing Historic Charm and Modern Function
The homeowners flawlessly blended old and new with choices honoring the architecture while accommodating everyday needs:
- Cabinet colors – Crisp white painted cabinets pair elegantly with the home’s trim for an updated but neutral scheme.
- Hardware – Black metal knobs and pulls nod to early hardware styles without appearing too rustic. Their streamlined shape suits the cabinets’ raised panels.
- Lighting – Pendants flank the island while sconces light the perimeter counters. Both choices align with fixtures found in historic homes.
- Countertop appliances – Appliances like the microwave and coffeemaker are hidden in cabinetry to avoid clutter.
- Window treatments – Simple roman shades allow light to fill the kitchen while softening the windows.
Each decision artfully united form and function, resulting in a kitchen ideal for busy days that still recalls the home’s heritage.
Tips for Blending Old and New
This beautifully updated historic kitchen offers inspiration for bringing new life to an older home’s kitchen without sacrificing original character. Here are some top tips:
- Consider layout and workflow before altering architecture like walls or windows. Look for creative ways to add function.
- Select permanent materials like cabinetry, counters, and flooring that speak to the home’s existing features.
- Use color thoughtfully. Neutral, muted, or classic schemes often complement older homes.
- Choose lighting and hardware that modernize subtly. Avoid extremely sleek or industrial styles that clash with traditional architecture.
- Incorporate modern appliances and technology like dishwashers carefully. Conceal them within cabinetry when possible.
- Arrange work zones mindfully so cooking, cleaning, and storage have space. But avoid overly contemporary open concept layouts.
- Add timeless character with elements like exposed brick, wood beams, stone accents or glass cabinet doors. Don’t cover up architectural details.
By honoring the past while enhancing livability, you can remodel kitchens in classic homes with amazing outcomes, just like this week’s featured project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a Greek Revival style house?
Greek Revival homes are patterned after ancient Greek architecture. They typically have a formal, symmetrical shape, columns flanking the entryway, triangular pediments over windows and doors, high ceilings, and rich decorative trimwork evocative of classically Greek design.
How do you update a kitchen in an old house stylishly?
Carefully determine how you can improve workflow and storage while maintaining the home’s architecture. Select timeless materials and classic styles for permanent elements like cabinetry and flooring. Incorporate subtle modern elements through your lighting, hardware, and appliances. Focus on quality over trendiness.
Should old home kitchens try to look modern?
Not necessarily. Leaning into the traditional architecture often has more timeless appeal. Focus instead on creating a functional, livable space that honors the home’s heritage. Look for clever ways to discreetly incorporate modern conveniences without sacrificing old world charm.
What are timeless kitchen remodel ideas?
Classic choices like white cabinetry, marble or granite counters, subway tile, nickel or bronze hardware, exposed brick, and natural wood or tile flooring transcend trends. Focus on high-quality materials and restrained ornamentation. Consider layout and workflow first when planning changes.
What style of cabinets suit an old home?
Traditional styled cabinets tend to complement historic homes best. Look for designs with raised panels, molding details, and frame and panel construction. Painting cabinets white often lightens up old kitchens elegantly. Stained wood cabinets also can match existing architectural woods nicely.
Conclusion
This breathtaking kitchen renovation offers endless inspiration for refreshing a period home’s kitchen gracefully. Thanks to careful planning and timeless choices, the new space honors the home’s 19th century origins while accommodating 21st century living. Relying on quality materials and showcasing historic details, the homeowners found the ideal balance between old and new. Their kitchen reinvention maintains the charming ambience of a Greek Revival home while checking every box for functionality. For staying power and elegance, nurturing the historic essence of a vintage home achieves kitchen design success.
