Whether you’re doing a kitchen remodel with the help of a kitchen designer, architect, or contractor, being able to clearly define your favorite style will help your project get off to a smooth start. If you live in an artisan home or simply enjoy the quality of handcrafting and a warm and cozy atmosphere, Artisan Style may be for you. Read on for details you need to know about this popular kitchen style, including key elements, color palettes, fixtures, and final touch-ups.
A Glance at the Artisan-Style Kitchen
The artisan-style kitchen highlights the beauty of natural wood and the high quality of craftsmanship. Here are some common elements to look for:
- Abundant natural wood
- Simple cabinetry with visible joinery
- Lighting with clean lines and geometric shapes
- An earthy palette inspired by nature
- Built-in features such as glass front cabinets and benches
- Handmade tiles with colorful glazes
Something You Can’t Find in an Artisan Kitchen
Artisan kitchens focus on the simplicity and warmth of natural materials. This is not the place to experiment with trends or deviate from natural aesthetics. Here’s what you won’t see:
- Bright color palette
- Mass-produced uniform materials such as concrete and vinyl
- Cutting-edge trends
- High gloss finish
- Curved shape
Natural Colors
The artisan-style kitchen features rich earth tones, vibrant greens and warm neutral tones that complement natural wood perfectly.
Colors of artisan kitchens:
- Rich, earthy tones. Chestnut, bark, stone, ochre, ochre
- Vibrant green. Sage, moss, spring green, olive
- Warm neutrals. Cream, parchment, beige, taupe
Handmade Cabinetry
Beautiful, handmade cabinets made of oak, pine or maple are a hallmark of the craftsman’s appearance. The cabinets have minimal details and rich staining, with an emphasis on the quality of the wood and professional craftsmanship. Look for frames and panel profiles (similar to shaker-style cabinets), visible joinery, and geometric accents. Countertops of granite, marble, soapstone, and natural wood add rich texture and color. Case handles, latching hardware, and square metal knobs provide just the right finishing touch.
Design Details: Clever Lighting
The artisan-style lighting has strong geometric lines and amber mica casts a soft glow. Look for rectangular and square lanterns with geometric detailing, as well as chandeliers, simple wall sconces, and recessed lighting that gives the entire space an even glow.
Design Details: Built-In Lockers
The details are designed to adapt to the space and the needs of the homeowner, which is a hallmark of the artisan style. Look for built-in bookshelves, wine pantry, glass display cases, pot holders, spice racks, and more.
Design Details: Banquet Seating
The built-in seat offers another opportunity to showcase the beautiful natural wood and simple, elegant design. If space allows, consider setting up a built-in banquet breakfast area in or near the kitchen.
Design Details: Handmade Tiles
Handmade tiles are a hallmark of artisan design. Simple rectangular and square tiles in rich colors are perfect for backsplashes and islands, while hand-painted tiles with illustrated patterns and nature-inspired scenes can be used as accents.
Wrapping up the Work
The details of Craftsman kitchens are ingenious, organic, and nature-inspired. Look for sturdy wooden breadboards and earthenware – like Russell Wright’s work on the open shelves on display here – as well as seasonal floral and botanical artwork.
