We all know an old-fashioned kitchen when we see one. We recognize it more from what is missing than what is there. No fridge-door ice maker. No glass in the cabinet doors. No kitchen island with a garbage disposal in the sink and a mini-fridge under the marble counter. Old fashioned kitchens often have unfinished wood and appliances that wear the greens and oranges of the 1970s.

But what makes a modern kitchen? Is it defined by present-day technology? Do cappuccino makers, food processors, and wine chillers make a kitchen modern? Or is a kitchen style defined by the design, such as lustrous finishes, fine-detailed cabinets, high-quality countertops, and artfully designed accents?

While a modern kitchen may possess some – or all – of these features, these alone do not make a kitchen modern. A kitchen should successfully blend form and function. It should not be cluttered with unnecessary gadgets. It should look clean, even when the dishes are dirty. You should be able to move easily through the space and find just what you need exactly when you need it.

The professional designers at Today’s Kitchens can help you achieve a modern kitchen that fits your style and your budget. With so many possible themes and such a large combination of materials and finishes, Today’s Kitchens has your kitchen. Whether you prefer bright colors or muted shades of gray, we can help. Kitchens are available with wood cabinets in stunning finishes or cabinets with the sheen of glass. Choose from metal fixtures and accents or a more rustic appearance of stone. Select that cappuccino machine or perhaps a groovy green pattern in your tile. The features of your modern kitchen are waiting for you at Today’s Kitchens.

Spanish Revival Kitchen

With the opening of the Panama Canal came a revival of the architecture that dominated the early Spanish colonies. The movement was led by Orlando architect, Frederick H. Trimble. The Spanish revival architectural style is known for its low-pitch, red-tiled roof, stucco outer wall, and prominent arches. This design especially took hold in Florida and California, where the historic relevance created a pride in the architectural style.

The original design was greatly influenced by Spain and Latin America. It first appeared in America in the 1880s with stately, elaborate hotels. The old styles of the Spanish settlers were updated and improved for the new century and are commonly found in Florida and Texas.

Today’s Kitchens has created an updated, traditional kitchen design that utilizes only the best features of the traditional Spanish revival design. The textures mimic the stucco walls and chimney surfaces so common of the period. The design includes the prominent sandy colorations as well as bright reds and muted yellows so indicative of the Spanish theme. The Spanish Revival traditional kitchen design uses beautiful tiles to create an elaborate motif that truly imitates the Latin-themed architecture. The cabinets are built with solid, sturdy woods coated with lustrous finishes, such as Saguaro and Etched Ivory. As always, quality workmanship and attention to detail goes into each and every piece created by Today’s Kitchens.

References:

http://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~twp/architecture/spanish/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_Colonial_Revival_architecture

Renaissance Kitchen

If elegance and sophistication is your style in both fashion and interior design, then the Renaissance kitchen by Wm Ohs is made for you. Elegantly carved woods; deep, satiny fabrics; bold colors are all combined to create a sensational setting for your next dinner party.

Planning is of utmost importance in order for your dinner party to progress smoothly and be a success. Resources on the Internet and at the library or bookstore should be utilized for the best outcome. Prepare your guests in advance by sending decorative invitations with all of the details, including the dress code, at least a month before the event. If there is a theme to your party, be sure to clearly describe it in the invitation.

An amuse bouche should be served first. A bit like an appetizer, an amuse bouche is more of a teaser – a bite of something extravagant that establishes the mood and flavor for the rest of the meal. Plan your courses to alternate between heavy and light – for instance potato cream soup followed by a Cesar salad. Keep the portions small, so that guests do not become too full before dessert is served.

Soft music and candlelight set the mood for a quiet, elegant meal. Choose instrumental music and keep the sound low enough that your guests’ conversation is not strained. Candles provide excellent mood lighting, but be sure that they are unscented so they do not interfere with the smells and flavors of the meal.

Your Renaissance style kitchen by Today’s Kitchens will definitely add to the atmosphere of your formal dinner party. Everyone will marvel at the ornate wood carved details and marble countertops. This classic kitchen style will make any dining experience a memorable one.

Resources:

http://www.finedinings.com/planning_an_elegant_fine_dining_.htm

French Provencal Kitchen

Located in Southern France, the region of Provence has a perfect, Mediterranean climate with sunny, dry summers and mild winters. With its many rivers, highest peaks, and location adjacent the Mediterranean Sea, Provence is a perfect vacation spot. Luxurious villas touting traditional architecture and ambiance dot the area. The landscape is timeless and the view is breathtaking. This region of France is hard to leave and even more difficult to forget.

Today’s Kitchens make it possible to take Provence home with you with the French Provencal traditional kitchen style. The custom cabinets and rustic design are reminiscent of the quaint country homes. The colors of this style mimic the hues found in nature. Sunflower and lavender are abundant in landscapes in southern France. The garrigue landscape supports plants such as sage, rosemary, and wild thyme, as they are able to thrive in the limestone soils of the region. With aromatic spices so readily available, it is no wonder that such fine food emerges from the area. Unlike typical French food, Provence cuisine has both Greek and Italian influences with a focus on olive oil, herbs, and tomatoes.

The French Provencal classic kitchen is the perfect place to recreate those Mediterranean style dishes so prominent in the Provence region. The distinct scents drifting from the pots on the stove will mesh flawlessly with the view of rustic textures and wood-carved natural motifs that are just some of the authentic features of this design. Well-built, beautiful cabinets and counters will complete your dream kitchen and bring a little piece of Provence to your house.

Resources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Provence

http://www.foodreference.com/html/art-provence.html

Hamptons Classic Kitchen

Not everyone can vacation in the Hamptons, but you can certainly fill your home with all the luxurious style for which the area is known. The Hamptons Classic offered by Today’s Kitchens features the sophistication and class that is the embodiment of the Hamptons. Fresh, white cabinets made with the highest quality standards are the basis of this design. Windows within the cabinet doors create an open, airy feel and a clean, classic look. The marble countertops and backdrop add to the refined style.

The Hamptons, located on Long Island, are part of the historical Summer Colonies in the early years of America. Still today it is an extremely popular vacation place with access by car, train or ferry (or by helicopter and private plane). The population increases each summer as affluent New Yorkers, and residents from neighboring states, flock to the seaside resort area. In recent years, foreigners from Europe and South America are also taking advantage of the beautiful area which is packed with retail stores, tennis courts, golf courses and endless beautiful white sand beaches.

The Hamptons Classic kitchen design brings the Hamptons to you. Enjoy the formal New England look with the functionality you desire. Stainless steel appliances – stove, sink, refrigerator – all accent the simplicity of the design. The understated cabinet doors with modest moldings have a light finish and weathered appearance for a truly sophisticated style that is uniquely the Hamptons. So as you sip tea in the early morning sun of a brilliant summer day, you can do so in the comfort of your kitchen that is representative of your favorite vacation location.

American Legacy Kitchen

The American Legacy Classic kitchen offered by Today’s Kitchens is a beautiful example of the traditional kitchen style updated with all the modern conveniences. The kitchen is the heart of the house. It is the place where the kids gather around the table for breakfast nourishment or wind down at the end of the day. Couples prepare romantic dinners and dine over candlelight in the kitchen. Empty nesters take back the kitchen, once used for microwave snacks for teenagers, now used for trying out new, exotic dishes.

Too many families are missing out on a great opportunity. The kitchen table is a safe place to discuss problems at school or end disputes within your relationship. It is the place for both laughter and serious discussions. America grew up around the kitchen table, and The American Legacy Classic traditional kitchen is a reminder of what once was and what should still be.

This charming design is informal and convenient. We spend most of our time in the kitchen – preparing, eating, and cleaning up meals. Since we spend much of our lives in the kitchen, then we should ensure that the room is both practical and luxurious. The American Legacy Classic design mimics a country cottage feel, using natural woods, floral accents, and other hints of nature. Just like America is a melting pot of different cultures, this kitchen design can be adapted to include elements of other designs, such as that of the French Country, the French Provencal, or the English Manor. This cheerful kitchen will certainly be the pulse of your house, welcoming family and friends alike.

The American Legacy Classic Kitchen offered by Today’s Kitchens is a beautiful example of the traditional kitchen style updated with all the modern conveniences. The kitchen is the heart of the house. It is the place where the kids gather around the table for breakfast nourishment or wind down at the end of the day. Couples prepare romantic dinners and dine over candlelight in the kitchen. Empty nesters take back the kitchen, once used for microwave snacks for teenagers, now used for trying out new, exotic dishes.

Too many families are missing out on a great opportunity. The kitchen table is a safe place to discuss problems at school or end disputes within your relationship. It is the place for both laughter and serious discussions. America grew up around the kitchen table, and The American Legacy Classic traditional kitchen is a reminder of what once was and what should still be.

This charming design is informal and convenient. We spend most of our time in the kitchen – preparing, eating, and cleaning up meals. Since we spend much of our lives in the kitchen, then we should ensure that the room is both practical and luxurious. The American Legacy Classic design mimics a country cottage feel, using natural woods, floral accents, and other hints of nature. Just like America is a melting pot of different cultures, this kitchen design can be adapted to include elements of other designs, such as that of the French Country, the French Provencal, or the English Manor. This cheerful kitchen will certainly be the pulse of your house, welcoming family and friends alike.