English Farmhouse Kitchens: From Across the Pond

Unlike the ubiquitous and trendy stark-white kitchen with its equally stark cabinetry, subway tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances, the comfortable and cozy English farmhouse kitchen continues to stand the test of time. The hallmarks of this kitchen are familiar and include a hearth-like range, a large center island, built-in cabinetry, warm paint colors, minimal decoration, beamed ceilings and a mix of natural materials such as wood, stone, brick and subtle metals. These elements are meant to evoke a sense of comfort and tradition — something many people are craving today.

You are likely to find locally quarried limestone floors as the traditional choice for English kitchen flooring. Here in the U.S., other natural substitutes such as brick, wood and terracotta also suggest old-world charm.

Here are some tips for creating this welcoming style in your own kitchen:

Color palette and design

Work with muted shades of pale gray and similar earthy colors to enhance any natural light. The colors are meant to provide a light and airy atmosphere. In addition to the expected colors of gray, green, blue, ochre and rust, tan and even dusty pink and lavender are trending in England right now. It shouldn't be long before these colors show up in American kitchens as well.

Large wooden kitchen islands are valued as places to work, prep food and even eat meals. As the centerpiece of the kitchen, an oak island with a marble countertop is an elegant expression of this style.

Cooking and storage

No self-respecting English farmhouse kitchen would be complete without a cast-iron Aga stove, an old-fashioned appliance that has been updated and is still popular. These "statement" stoves have long been considered the workhorse of the kitchen, given their history of longevity and reliability. These stoves instantly impart a sense of history to any kitchen. A traditional range hood completes the aesthetic appeal.

Open shelving and glass-fronted cabinets are typical of the English farmhouse kitchen. They offer the opportunity to display vintage accent pieces from flea markets and family attics. As one designer put it, English kitchens are meant to be in a bit of disarray. A bit of clutter is just fine. To complete the effect, equip the cabinet doors and drawers with porcelain knobs.

Apron-front farmhouse sinks have long been regarded as a staple of this style. Practically speaking, they are durable and functional. The sink is usually installed to sit a little bit away from the cabinets below so that if there is any water overflow, it will run down to the floor and not damage the cabinets.

Aesthetically speaking, these sinks bring charm, elegance and a hint of nostalgia to any kitchen; they add just the right amount of personality to your space. Apron-front sinks come in a variety of materials to fit in no matter what kitchen time period you may have, including sleek contemporary styles. You can choose from porcelain, copper, fireclay and stainless steel.

The warmth and charm you want in an English farmhouse kitchen does not need to break the bank. With a few additions or swaps to your existing kitchen, you can recreate the look of this rustic lifestyle.

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