Vintage-Inspired Farmhouse Kitchen

Hand-painted cabinets, steely finishes, tall windows, and an open floor plan make for a bright and breezy kitchen that invites friends and family to stay and chat. Although the design was inspired by vintage farmhouse kitchens, there's nothing worn about this room's overall look. Touches of stainless steel offer contemporary counterpoints to bronze cabinet hardware, satin-nickel faucets, and furniture-style cabinetry to enhance the collected-over-time look the homeowners craved.

Days-gone-by touches flow freely throughout the kitchen. Hand-brushed paint finishes, crown-molding caps, carved feet, and recessed toe-kicks give custom cabinetry the look of freestanding cabinets that furnished kitchens years ago. The island's walnut countertop not only stands up to daily wear and tear, but it also mimics an antique farmhouse table.

A weathered metal basket equipped with a chandelier fixture creates an unexpected focal point above the island. Antique mercury-glass street-sign lights illuminate the other kitchen work zones and add even more vintage character to the space. Reclaimed-wood ceiling beams draw the eye upward and emphasize the aged-farmhouse vibe of the kitchen and adjoining dining room.

The spacious island offers prep space as well as a central gathering spot for the homeowners' large family. The island's small undermount prep sink creates a convenient workstation while showcasing the thick walnut countertop.

Crisp white marble on the perimeter countertops and behind the sink highlight the similar tone of the traditional farmhouse-style basin. A satin-nickel bridge faucet offers a period-apt profile and a toned-down finish that echoes the veining of the surrounding marble. Camouflaged by a cabinet panel and a bronze pull, the modern dishwasher blends seamlessly into the kitchen's old-meets-new aesthetic.

Open shelving above the sink offers display space for dishware and vintage collectibles. The white dishes create a cohesive display that echoes the finish of the apron-front sink below. Beaded-board panels behind the shelves add a texture and traditional cottage character.

Handcrafted tiles in shifting hues of white and cream add depth and interest behind the range. The industrial silhouettes and utilitarian nature of the range and vent hood contribute to the kitchen's effortless mix of vintage-style and modern amenities. Traditional double-hung windows stretch from floor to ceiling to admit unimpeded natural light and views of the outside.

Cabinetry panels hide modern appliances to further the room's the old-fashioned aesthetic. Here, a breakfast station corrals small appliances to reduce countertop clutter and ease morning routines. Refrigerator drawers beneath the breakfast station provide additional storage for food and easy access for guests.

The large iron-and-bronze chandelier in the adjoining dining area picks up on the kitchen's hardware while illuminating an expandable farmhouse table. Cozy chairs upholstered in soft striped fabric invite guests to linger after the meal is over. A large cabinet along one wall provides storage for table linens and other dining room essentials.