Old World Kitchen Mood Board
During the summer of 2014 I traveled abroad, for the first time, to the English Isles. I went with a group from college, and we spent most of our time in Ireland. I could write way too much about my short but amazing trip and all of the memories I made, but what was most captivating was the buildings and architecture. Europe simply exudes character and charm because its rich and vast history. Buildings that are hundreds of years old are still standing, and you can't help but leave both inspired and overwhelmed by the unique and charming beauty. This mood board is an ode to my time in Ireland, sitting in the pubs of Dublin and walking the streets of Killarney. It plays off of modern elements of design while incorporating traditional and eclectic charm.
Old World Kitchen:
Into today's Pinterest-crazed design world, sometimes everything starts to look the same. Don't get me wrong, I love shiplap just as much as the next girl; but sometimes it's fun to do something a little less predictable. Some of my favorite aspects of this inspiration board is the "Hunter Green" paint color by Benjamin Moore I picked out for the bottom cabinets. I saw a renovation done over on Studio McGee, & I've been undone ever since. I think dark colored cabinets can be used really tastefully to create a lot of interest in a kitchen that a lot of people shy away from. Also, the herringbone backsplash. This isn't in my kitchen yet, but mark my words, the day nigh. I really hope you enjoy this mood board as much as I enjoyed making it for you.
02. Hunter Green Paint: I really can't say enough about this dark emerald green color. It's so rich and lush. I would put this on the bottom cabinets of a kitchen. I think it would pair really nicely with dark countertops.
03. Wide Plank Flooring: Wood flooring is a must, it almost goes without saying. I love the color and worn finish of this one.
04. Super White Paint: I chose for the top cabinet color. How beautiful would this be contrasting with dark cabinets? White cabinets aren't going anywhere.
05. Black Stainless Steel LG Fridge: Nate Berkus helped design this new line of stainless steel appliances by LG, and if it's good enough for Nate, it's good enough for me.
07. Map of Ireland: Nothing says old world to me like framed, vintage maps. This is also my not-so-subtle nod to Ireland.
08. Cabinet Handle: I love the sleek, clean shape of this handle. This hardware would make the space still feel modern, while the gold color compliments the vintage aesthetic.
10. Bistro Light Sconce: These scream pub to me. I would put them on either side of a window or an area that needs lighting accent.
11. Black Stainless Steel LG Gas Range: The black on these appliance would go so well with the other dark accents through the kitchen.
12. Pendant Lighting: Rejuvenation is always killing me slowly with their beautiful light fixtures, and this is no exception. How beautiful would two of these be above a large kitchen island?
13. Herringbone Tile: I think there's something about herringbone that really lends a vintage touch to a space. This white tile in a backsplash under white cabinets would make a really nice, neutral palette that would still lend interest.
14. Gold Faucet: We're seeing gold kitchen hardware and accents everywhere, and it's a really nice break the usual stainless steel or silver. Plus, you know how the Irish love their gold.
15. Concrete Farmhouse Sink: Concrete is one of my most favorite materials making its way into the kitchen spotlight. It's super durable, modern, and subtle. Plus, plays along super well with the darker accents in this space.
16. Dining Chair: I feel like you would see this dining chair in an old pub or restaurant, and that's what I love about it. It's functional, while charming.