It's easy to understand why so many of us yearn for an “old-fashioned” aesthetic: the movement prioritizes quality products and designs that are classic enough to transcend passing trends. When it comes to interiors, that means we'll often see versatile neutral colors and muted materials that will look just as good in a decade's time.
A combination of timeless colors and quality materials is the foundation of a vintage aesthetic in any room in the home, but perhaps nowhere offers more room for experimentation than in the kitchen, and Reese Witherspoon has set an example here: We could talk for hours about the dusty gray color she chose, but according to the designer, it's the glass fronts on her kitchen cabinets that really bring the vintage vibe to life.
“Glass cabinets are a traditional fixture in kitchens, especially those with an 'old-fashioned' aesthetic, which means classic, timeless materials and finishes that will withstand rapidly changing trend cycles,” comments Michele Iapicco, principal of Iapicco Design Studio.
Clear glass was chosen for Witherspoon's space to display her crockery collection, but there are ways to follow suit if you want to hide your plates, dishes, and glasses.
“Glass-front cabinets are a great way to accent your kitchen, but there are many different ways to go about it. Frosted glass adds a sense of depth but obscures the pile of dishes behind it. If you're not too picky about organizing your cabinets, frosted glass is probably the best choice,” explains Iapicco.
Or, opt for a lattice-patterned glass front to add even more depth to your serenely luxurious kitchen. Depending on your glass choice, you can create a “whimsical,” “traditional” or “French country cottage” style for your space, says Iapicco.
Glass cabinetry in a neutral kitchen that resembles Witherspoon's space.
(Images by Harvey Jones/Darren Chan)
Upgrading your cabinets may seem like a time-consuming task, but it doesn't have to take that long or be that expensive to embrace the Witherspoon look.
“You can bring this style into your home by simply replacing a few existing kitchen doors. Depending on your layout, choosing upper cabinets on either side of the sink or stove can change the look and feel of the space,” says Iapicco. “And if one wall is a 'focal wall,' choose cabinets there to create impact. I would add that you should choose areas of the kitchen where adding glass to the upper cabinets will create impact while keeping the lower cabinets glass-free.”
Buy old fashioned kitchen items
Beyond the cabinetry, these accessories add a beautiful aesthetic to any style of kitchen.
