Angular furniture is popular in German kitchen design.
Sleek. Innovative. Contemporary. These are just a few of the words that are evoked when thinking of German interior design. You can borrow elements of this innovative cultural design and incorporate them into your kitchen by following some key guidelines. This article will discuss various methods of creating a modern German kitchen.
History
To achieve the look of sleek German design in your kitchen, the first thing you have to do is look at modern style. Modern style is influenced heavily by the German Bauhaus movement of the 1930s. This movement was influenced by the end of World War I. Designers wanted to focus on a purism, using materials such as metal for furniture and creating a modern, streamlined appearance. Today, many of these elements are used in modern style.
Color Palette
The most popular color palette in German design is neutral. In order to create a background for your neutral color palette, try painting your walls white or light gray. German design has an industrial look; HGTV.com recommends incorporating stainless steel backsplashes and kitchen appliances. Your color scheme is going to be tone-on-tone; meaning, instead of pairing a neutral with a vibrant color, you will be pairing it with similar colors or shades. For example, a color scheme of black, gray, white and very light ice blue is tone-on-tone. Some interior design companies, such as the innovative Culinablu, incorporate a pop of color through kitchen accessories and upholstery. A popular theme is adding lime green or bright red flatware or cabinetry.
Finishes
The German kitchen should have a glossy overall look. Materials such as concrete and granite are often used as flooring. If you're on a tight budget, try purchasing a glossy linoleum flooring; linoleum is much cheaper than granite and less of a hassle than concrete. Again, stainless steel is a popular material, as is chrome, for kitchen appliances, decorative elements such as light fixtures, cabinet handles and countertops. Glass is often used in cabinetry for a sleek, shiny look. You can also achieve a shiny appearance to your cabinets and drawers by applying a high-gloss lacquer.
Architecture and Artwork
Focusing on geometric design is key when creating a German-inspired kitchen. Light from windows is often used to accent the angles in furniture, shelving and stairways. Try to avoid ornate or organic-looking furniture or appliances, as this can take away from the overall angular look of your kitchen. Rectangular cabinetry and seating is ideal. To create even more visual interest, try adding unusual, geometric artwork to your space. This can come in the form of paintings, photographs and vases.
Tags: German design, German kitchen, often used, your kitchen, color palette, color scheme, creating modern