9 Key Elements of Timeless Kitchen Design

“I think natural, warm, neutral colors will always remain timeless and classic,” says Jaime Galapo, president of Galapo Group Design, LLC, who makes simplicity a priority in her work. When creating classic kitchen designs, she chooses wood tones or white as a neutral choice for timeless kitchen cabinet colors. “Some people say white kitchens are outdated, but I think white is classic,” she says. But she adds that any neutral color scheme will work.

Avoid patterns that you'll regret or get tired of after a while, and choose surfaces that are easy on the eye, says Galapo. For example, she suggests avoiding intricate mosaics or tiny tiles for a backsplash, opting instead for classic materials like natural stone or subway tile.

“While neutral tones like white, cream, and gray are timeless choices for cabinets, don't be afraid to add personality with subtle splashes of color,” says Kelly, who recommends soft shades of blue or green, or deep navy, to add depth and interest. Stick to classic hues that work with a variety of design styles.

For those who want to incorporate bold colors, Galapo recommends incorporating them into your island. She says this spot is the perfect accent piece and can easily be repainted or redecorated for a makeover. Wall paint and textiles are also great ways to add color without a lot of effort.

A space that works for you is a space that will last. Making a list of your kitchen essentials is a helpful starting point. Homeowners who love to cook, for example, tend to prioritize ample cooking space and a stove that works well. “A well-designed kitchen should be truly functional,” says Galapo. “Always make a list of the things you have and make space for them in your design,” she adds.

Kelly says the traditional triangular kitchen layout, with the sink, stove, and refrigerator at the three apexes, is essential for easy, efficient meal preparation. “Aim for a clean, functional layout that allows for easy movement and efficient use of space,” she advises.

Combining old and new elements will help create a balanced kitchen design. For example, pairing traditional features like crown molding and premium wood finishes with more contemporary kitchen trends like stainless steel and clean lines will result in a design that avoids either extreme. “The key to creating a timeless kitchen is to strike a balance between classic elements and contemporary touches,” says Kelly.

To achieve this fusion, consider using traditional materials in new ways: For example, combine classic subway tile with herringbone or straight-stack tile for a more contemporary arrangement, or pair brushed gold hardware with traditional cabinetry styles for a luxurious yet updated look.

Because your kitchen needs to withstand wear and tear to last, Kelly says it's important to choose high-quality, durable materials. “Hardwood floors, marble or quartz countertops, and solid wood cabinets are all choices that exude timeless elegance and sophistication,” she says.

Choose kitchen materials that are easy to clean. Galapo says to avoid hard-to-maintain surfaces like granite, which is too absorbent. Also avoid vinyl surfaces, which can peel or warp when exposed to heat and water.

Simple cabinet doors can be the foundation of a timeless kitchen design. Popular for over a century, Shaker cabinets feature a clean design with a center panel and raised rectangular frame. What's more, these classic kitchen cabinets work well with a variety of home styles.

Galapo also likes to use simple slab doors for their timeless design. Their lack of embellishment makes them modern and easy to clean, and their neutral backdrop allows them to pair with a variety of aesthetics. Galapo likes to accessorize his doors with unique hardware for visual interest.

Using natural elements indoors creates a calm, organic beauty. Galapo loves using natural stone as a focal element in her designs. “You can't beat the beauty of nature,” she says. She often uses stone from countertops to walls to create timeless kitchen backsplashes. “It's clean, it's simple, it's neutral and it's easy on the eye. That's what makes it timeless,” Galapo says.

Wood finishes also bring natural warmth to a space. Opt for wood grain for shelves and cabinets, or consider butcher block for an island countertop. Incorporate wooden handles and small wooden accents, like bar stools or wicker light fixtures.

To design a stunning kitchen aesthetic, think in layers. Classic cabinets and countertops make a great base for a timeless kitchen, but it's what you layer on top of this classic foundation that makes your design stand out.

“There are lots of ways to make a neutral kitchen more appealing,” says Galapo. For example, you could pair simple slab cabinet doors with bold or trendy hardware or incorporate a fun pendant light above a traditional island. He also recommends taking risks with other accents that are easy to change up, like accessories, fixtures, or textiles.

Nothing lasts longer than a personalized space, and when homeowners see their interests reflected in the design, they won't tire of it as quickly, so be sure to incorporate personal touches like artwork, wallpaper, textiles, hardware and other accents.

Don't be afraid to incorporate personal favorites that may seem less common. If pink has been your favorite color all your life, find a way to incorporate that beloved hue into your design. Love plants? Create a display near a window. Have a collection of pottery or other items? Display your coveted pieces on open shelves so you can walk by and admire them every day.