The recognizable style of American kitchens has become a reflection of the lifestyle and habits of the inhabitants of the United States and Canada, and the original and functional environment has developed from many components. Let's figure out what features a kitchen in the style of American classics has, and what is needed to create an American atmosphere within the walls of your home.
American style kitchen Source home-designing.com
Combining kitchen and living room
If you paid attention to this, you probably noticed that the rooms there are large, including the kitchen.
This is one of the main features of the layout of American apartments, where the kitchen is often combined with the living room and dining room.
In our realities, similar design projects can be implemented either in a studio apartment or in a private house, since apartments with a typical kitchen layout are often not very large.
Before you start planning, make sure you have enough space - classic American style requires plenty of space and light.
We will talk about artificial lighting separately, but natural lighting should also be enough - ideally, you need a room with two or more windows.
An important nuance: In addition to the fact that a kitchen-dining room with a living room is not feasible in every home, you also need to take care of choosing a good hood (or even more than one). Keep this in mind when calculating your budget.
Main features of the American style
The American style is collective and owes its origin to multinational countries. When decorating the premises, Oriental, African and European decorations are used, combining them with each other, resulting in an American style.
A kitchen in a modern American style looks neat, presentable, at the same time it is functional, in many ways reminiscent of a natural African interior.
You can recognize an American-style kitchen by its main features:
- imitation of luxury - the use of plastic panels instead of natural wood;
- lighting fixtures are as economical as possible; placing a chandelier in the center of the room is allowed in the living room;
- to zone the room, niches and decorative partitions are used, as a result one room can be used for the kitchen and dining room, living room and hallway;
- The placement of furniture must be in the center and not along the walls.
The rooms are characterized by natural shades.
Attention! For decoration, the color of metal and gilding is used.
Kitchen island
In the American style you cannot do without it - it is not typical for it to arrange furniture exclusively along the walls. Here it is better to occupy the center and a kitchen island is the best choice.
It’s not for nothing that Americans love this piece of furniture so much: it is not only beautiful, but also functional. See for yourself:
- The issue of zoning has been mentioned more than once - even directly in the kitchen area, sometimes it is necessary to separate one segment from another.
- Additional work surface.
- There is no need to buy a separate dining table for a kitchen with an island. This is especially true for a kitchen-living room without a dining room, decorated in American style.
There is another important point: have you ever noticed that in most American homes the kitchen has a special pantry for kitchen appliances and excess dishes that are not used every day?
With a kitchen island, you can do without it - the main thing is to order not a monolithic model, but with built-in shelves.
Accessories and decor items
In America, family values are especially important, and therefore photographs, gifts from loved ones and handmade items are often used as accessories. Bouquets of flowers, perhaps cut from your own garden, are often used as interior decoration.
Decorative items can be vases with fruit, beautiful dishes, baskets with vegetables and other functional details that can be used for their intended purpose.
A decorative element can be a retro-style faucet, original lampshades on the ceiling or an old sign on the wall
Americans rarely decorate windows with curtains, or use the simplest and most practical models
Non-functional decor is not welcome, which is why you won’t find figurines, empty vases, or various paintings in American cuisine. In the living room area, a larger number of decorative elements and beautiful textiles are possible, but in the kitchen it is advisable to do without curtains, tablecloths and other not always practical details.
When creating an American style in the kitchen, it is important to maintain a balance between practicality and comfort, use soft lighting, natural colors and not overload the interior with decor, prints and accessories. Only a simple and comfortable interior can be called truly American.
We divide the territory
If Americans have a tendency to unite everything in one room as much as possible, then why can't they create chaos?
It's all about the correct division into zones - despite the absence of walls, they do not mix thanks to the proper arrangement of furniture, the use of color transitions and decor.
For example, a bar counter. We talk about it in more detail in the corresponding paragraph of our review, but it also copes with this function perfectly, helping to separate the kitchen from the living-dining room.
For the same purpose, a dining table, flowerpots or various structural elements can be used.
Functional filling of the kitchen
Mandatory components of the interior of such a kitchen are hoods, large refrigerators, and numerous household appliances.
The hood ensures high-quality air purification when preparing food, because the living room combined with the kitchen and the upholstered furniture in it will quickly absorb all odors.
The large refrigerator is a symbol of the well-being and hospitality of this home. The photos of the finished projects show that double-leaf models look harmonious and luxurious in a spacious kitchen. It is important that the doors of household appliances are painted the same color.
Walls and floors are the foundation
Simplicity and naturalness with high quality are the cornerstone of American design. Leave pretentiousness and complex textures to baroque and boho chic styles.
It is not for nothing that the now popular country music originated in this country - pay attention to the types of finishing that are used there. Of course, this is only one branch, but it gives an idea of what is worth focusing on.
However, this only applies to repairs. What about the situation?
Practical furniture
When watching American films, it seems that even a middle-income family lives in luxurious apartments.
There are two basic rules here: high-quality natural materials (or a good imitation of them) and elegance. The most simple and functional silhouettes are what you need.
There is another nuance: it all depends on the style you choose. Don't think that American design is monotonous - it all depends on its focus.
Want retro? Buy lacquered sofas and cabinets with a glossy tabletop. If you like classics, choose fabric upholstery and natural wood.
Selection and placement of furniture
Of particular importance for a kitchen-living room in the American classic style is the correct arrangement and choice of furniture. Furniture, as a rule, should be located in the center of the room, and not along the walls, as is customary in Russia. Mostly they choose large-sized furniture, and it should be of the same color scheme or from the same collection. There must be a match in design, shade, texture.
The furniture chosen for American-style interiors must be comfortable, and factory-made products can be decorated with handmade decorative elements. The living room requires a large sofa, comfortable armchairs, a beautiful coffee table, the kitchen is equipped according to the principle of an island.
Pay attention to the facades
The most popular type of facade is paneled. But unlike our latitudes, where they often try to decorate them with curly handles or paintings, Americans prefer a simple style - plain wood in light colors.
This is also typical for other furniture parts - the simpler the better. Functional, practical and beautiful.
Now about the color
This is where it’s difficult to single out a clear set of shades: it all depends on what you want to get as a result.
Do you like interiors from good classic Christmas movies? Then brown, beige, greenish tones are more suitable for you - those that are considered natural. Avoid flashy colors, try to make the kitchen elegant and discreet.
There is an opinion that Americans most often make white furniture fronts - this is not so. The shade can be any, even coffee - it is important that it is natural.
It's another matter if you are planning an unusual interior in the style of an American cafe. This is where they will come in handy - bright rich colors are just what you need.
But there are also nuances here: the main thing is not to overdo it. One main tone should be emphasized by a restrained background. Otherwise, the kitchen will turn out to be too colorful. This is no longer American design, but kitsch - why do you need this?
Choice of colors
Neutral light shades that can be easily combined with each other help create a homely, calm and warm atmosphere. The ceilings, as well as the walls, are decorated in warm, light colors. Floor finishing requires the use of wood or materials that imitate natural wood.
The palette includes the following shades:
- light beige;
- lactic;
- cream;
- shades of gray;
- shades of brown;
- blue;
- light green;
- olive;
- opal;
- khaki.
Too sharp, contrasting combinations are not welcome. However, light shades are often combined with dark ones. Bright accents are created with the help of furniture; designers often strive to create an environment reminiscent of American cafes.
What's behind the door?
If you look closely at the photos of American kitchens, you will notice two details:
- There is no clutter of dishes, utensils and other kitchen items;
- A lot of cabinets and shelves.
This is no accident. One of the basic principles of this interior is that everything that can be hidden must be hidden. The above-mentioned items can only be visible if they are used not only for their intended purpose, but also as decoration.
We hide everything else! In large American houses, a separate pantry is sometimes specially allocated for these purposes.
Please note that these are not our mezzanines - no stepladders, everything should be as comfortable as possible. Usually a separate corner in the kitchen is fenced off for it - so that everything you need is at hand.
Plenty of storage and separate pantry
The need to have everything available for cooking and entertaining guests determines such a large number of storage spaces.
For these purposes, there is also a separate storage room, equipped with many cabinets and shelves with baskets and containers.
The pantry is another characteristic feature of American cuisine.
Let there be light!
We already wrote above that such a kitchen requires a lot of space and light. And if the first is clear, then the second needs to be said separately - especially if you decide to try to make a small kitchen decorated in the American style.
Firstly, there is natural light - the more windows, the better. True, turning the walls into one continuous aquarium is still not a good idea.
Secondly, carefully designed artificial. This is where the difficulties begin. No massive chandeliers or heavy floor lamps.
If in the recreation area you want to create a cozy corner with a fireplace, a warm carpet and sofas, you can place one elegant chandelier there - no more.
For the rest of the room, we recommend choosing spotlights. Firstly, they fit well into the concept of American interior design - nothing superfluous where it is not needed. Secondly, it is convenient to make wiring for zone lighting under them.
An alternative could be pendant lamps with the simplest possible shades - but this requires a certain height of the walls.
Convenient solution: In addition to lighting on the ceiling, place spotlights above functionally important places. This could be a stove, sink, work surface - anything where good light is often needed.
Lighting organization
The American craving for simplicity and functionality is also expressed in diverse lighting. There are a lot of lighting fixtures in such a room: they help not only to create a cozy atmosphere, but also to place accents, maintaining the desired level of illumination.
Heavy models of chandeliers and lamps, floor-standing fixtures are not used in the interior. Preference is given to spot lighting; you can often see spot lamps that allow you to adjust the direction of the light flow. The dining area is illuminated by laconic, stylish lamps of simple designs, which are usually made of metal or glass.
Lighting should be as simple and practical as possible. In those places that are often used, it is necessary to organize spot lighting.
Cozy twilight
What about darkening the room if necessary? No curtains or curtains in the kitchen area! Blinds, roller blinds or Roman blinds. In fact, there is logic in this - thin fabric in the kitchen is easy to stain or damage. So this decision is dictated not only by style, but also by considerations of practicality.
Pay attention to the texture: glossy or printed options will not fit into the interior.
The best options are vertical wooden blinds or bamboo stands. If you live in a private house, we highly recommend that you think about shutters - then the compliance with the American style will be complete.
American style kitchen decoration
It is recommended to give special importance to the decoration of an American-style kitchen. If necessary, you can make a wooden kitchen in the American style, but in most cases, budget building materials that imitate stone and wood are used for finishing. Plastic panels are mainly used. In order to get the desired result, it is important to choose and arrange the furniture correctly.
Floor
In most cases, laminate boards or natural wood, pre-treated, are used to finish the floor surface. It is recommended to choose a light or brown shade. When decorating the living room, you can lay a plain high-pile carpet.
Walls
If the American style was chosen, then everything in the design should be correct and natural. The walls deserve special attention. To design them you can use:
- plaster;
- panels – plastic or MDF;
- single-color paintwork;
- wallpaper.
If you plan to use wallpaper, it must be paper or textile. Printed design, maximum volume. Most often they choose wallpaper with plant patterns and ornaments. But it is worth considering that it will be impossible to remove contamination from paper material.
Ceiling
Whitewash or plain paint is excellent for finishing the ceiling surface. Moldings are installed as decorative elements around the perimeter of the room. The color must be neutral, if possible light. Ceilings in country houses are decorated with wooden beams.
Textile
American-style kitchen curtains are extremely rarely chosen. Preference is given to geometric patterns, large stripes, checkered patterns, floral patterns and designs. An excellent solution is to combine the pattern of curtains and carpet.
The fabric should be chosen natural. The use of lambrequins and fringes is not allowed. If necessary, the kitchen interior can be supplemented with blinds or Roman blinds.
Advice! Translucent curtains with classic tassels that cover wooden window frames look great.
Home saloon
We have already mentioned the bar counter. An almost indispensable element for a studio apartment with an American kitchen.
It can be used both as an additional cabinet for kitchen items, and as a separator between two zones and, of course, for its intended purpose.
In addition, the original bar counter is already an interior decoration. If we were you, we wouldn't neglect this combination of style and practicality.
And, since we are already talking about aesthetics, let’s smoothly move on to the decor.
Interior features
Americans value a combination of the atmosphere of an old house and modern life, so a certain eclecticism is characteristic of many American cuisines; the design of which is created on a grand scale.
In the style of an English pub Source onekindesign.com
Along with modern domed hoods and giant refrigerators, the space is filled with details with history. The interior is decorated with antique ceiling beams, copper dishes, and original chairs.
American kitchen in an old room Source archidea.com.ua
Decorative elements
Let's return to cinema again. Notice how their kitchens are decorated. On the one hand, it seems as if there is practically no decor - you won’t find a collection of figurines, an abundance of paintings...
On the other hand, it cannot be said that Americans are fans of minimalism. It’s just that decorations should also be functional. Bright jars with spices, unusual dishes, motivating inscriptions - all this is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also plays a certain practical role.
Sometimes a lamp also acts in this capacity - on a wide wooden frame with light bulbs on thin chains you can hang light frying pans and pots, small kitchen utensils. Both beautiful and practical - just what you need!
Greenery will also go very well with the theme. Moreover, these are not necessarily decorative flowers - mini-vegetable gardens on windowsills have recently become a trend. And the fashion for them originated in America. We personally recommend: this is not only a decoration, but also natural spices or vegetables for your table!
Technological age
We will have to get rid of Soviet refrigerators and gas stoves. Built-in appliances look harmonious in American interiors.
By the way, there should be a lot of it: Americans’ love for technical innovations is known to everyone. Therefore, if you have long wanted to buy some kind of device, do not deny yourself this: choose a blender, a sandwich maker, an electric grill... All this fits well into the conceived concept.
Pay attention to the plumbing: wide and deep sinks, into which all the dishes can be easily stored after preparing for a festive dinner, are just what you need. It is better to choose natural materials - stainless steel is not entirely suitable here.
Full set of household appliances
The arsenal of an American kitchen must have everything necessary for all occasions: from a refrigerator and stove to a juicer and the most modern vegetable cutter. Even if some gadgets that are not so significant in everyday life will have to be used only once.
The storage room also serves as a garage for small equipment.
Among the largest kitchen appliances:
- fridge. As a rule, two-door, roomy. Having a separate large freezer is welcome;
- stove and oven;
- hood. This item should definitely attract attention with its dimensions. With an island layout, it is perfectly acceptable to install it directly above the countertop with the cooktop in the middle of the room.
This can be done in an apartment using recirculation hoods that are not connected to the air duct.
All equipment should be highly functional, technologically advanced and the most modern, not necessarily built-in, but certainly harmoniously integrated into the overall environment. After all, comfort while cooking and saving time are the main values of American housewives.
The dining room is the center of the house
Even if you have a small family, a spacious and comfortable dining area is a must-have.
The only concession is the ability to use a kitchen island or bar counter in this capacity.
But ideally it should be a beautiful dining table with a massive top in the dining area.
Breakfast place
An island, wide countertops, a dining area... Americans believe that this is not enough.
It would be a good idea to arrange another place for relaxation - for breakfast or lunch. You can adapt a bar counter or a small coffee table for it.
Zoning
Since in American traditions the kitchen is often combined with the dining room and living room, the delimitation of space becomes of great importance. The main layout option is island. A large piece of furniture is placed in the middle of the room. Most often, the “island” is the working surface. It can also serve as a table for breakfast or tea. Lunch and dinner are often held in the living room, if possible.
Other options for delimiting space:
- free space between functional areas;
- low partition, bar counter;
- glass cabinets and shelves;
- corner kitchen set or sofa;
- sliding doors;
- a podium in one part of the room, most often where food is prepared;
- arched or other decorated transition between the kitchen and living room;
- different lighting;
- the difference is in the finishing materials for floors and walls.
Zoning also occurs due to the color design of the room. The table or work surface that serves as the “island” is often dark in color. This draws attention to it against the background of a light set and visually fences off the food preparation area.
Kingdom of textiles
Pay attention to how many fabric elements Americans use in their interiors. This is easy to explain even from a historical point of view - they are still proud of their cotton products.
Therefore, choose natural fabrics for upholstery and accessories. Tablecloths and napkins will also come in handy - no paper!
Of course, at first glance this is not very convenient for those who are accustomed to paper tissues, but it helps to provide a real American atmosphere.
Materials, palette and style
The favorite material of American kitchens is wood. They try to use it to the maximum: wooden facades with laconic panels, high-quality wooden furniture and floors. In old houses, beams and wooden panels on the walls must be left in the interior, and old window frames must be restored. The walls are usually painted or plastered; wallpaper is not often seen.
Interior with wood accents Source hzcdn.com
Bonus for creating atmosphere
America is characterized by the presence of all kinds of bonuses and additional options. We decided that if we did not take advantage of this tradition, the article would not be complete.
Remember how they celebrate parties in the USA? An abundance of themed accessories can turn a kitchen into a festive zone. Don't neglect them - this will help you not only add variety, but also maintain true American style in your kitchen, regardless of the season.
There are no trifles in this style. Even plastic utensils can play a role - for example, the red cups familiar to everyone from the TV series.
We draw conclusions: the costs of creating an American interior in the kitchen will be considerable. Mainly due to the quality of materials and the need for a large area. But if you take the risk, the result will please you for many years: this style is not one of those that quickly fades.
Origins of style
Several centuries ago, a stream of immigrants from Europe began to explore the vast expanses of the North American continent. The first (and most numerous) colonists were the British. The subjects of the English queen were creatures of habit, and in their new homeland they did not abandon traditions, including English interior styling.
In a warm color palette Source pinimg.com
Following the British, immigrants from other countries poured into America. The original English style began to change, absorbing foreign culture, but maintaining English motifs at its core. And if at first it was a prim colonial style, then over time it began to transform; It has many features of the rural (country) direction.
Interior with fireplace Source hzcdn.com
Over time, Americans began to design their interiors, including kitchens, more simply. American kitchen style has become universal and practical. American cuisine is beauty, functionality and a reverent attitude to tradition.
White color in the kitchen interior Source kadincasayfa.com
Traditions are the basis of style Source rehouz.info
