>

Lived-In Kitchens

The kitchen is the heart of the home. Why then do the kitchens featured in so many magazines give off such a steely vibe? You know what I mean: the granite, the stainless steel, the refrigerators void of family pictures and the countertops void of bills and letters. I love these kitchens for the simple reason that I'm convinced people actually live in them. 
{This might not be your average kitchen sink (filled with flowers in lieu of dirty dishes) but I love the attention to detail. Black counters are an unexpected alternative to granite or marble and they're stunning paired with white cabinetry and pale blue walls. Don't you love the flounce of the skirted sink and gardener's stool?}
{The equipment might be top-of-the-line but there's a very unfussy quality to this kitchen. The hanging pots are practical and pretty — especially with the splash of turquoise! I love the book shelves on either side of the hood.}
{I know people say they're tired of subway tile but to me it's a timeless classic. The open shelving contains an impressive cookbook collection and keeps plates and cups in easy reach. The styling — the potted plants, cut fruit, and phone on the table — gives it that lived-in look I love.}

{one | two | three}

16 comments:

The Everything List said...

my kitchen is definitely lived in. i always see pictures of kitchens and think "where are their appliances?" i love to cook so i have things on counter tops (i also don't have that much cabinet space.)

http://lachapstickfanatique.blogspot.com

Rebecca said...

Yummy! I especially love the vases & flowers in the sink - it reminds me of getting ready for company or a special event at home. My mom would always have vases filling in the sink :)

Lilacandgrey said...

the 1st is cute, but a little too cluttered for me...love the last one!

Cassie said...

I really love the last one--tons of storage and wood floors (the back splash tile is great too!)

Unknown said...

I totally agree! Stainless steel and white kitchens are pretty, but I definitely prefer a lived-in look :)

Kate {domestikatedlife} said...

That first kitchen is one of my all time favorites!

hip hip gin gin said...

Love these kitchens! And I'm with you on the subway tile, sure it's been done a lot, but it is gorgeous and I haven't done it in my house yet so I still totally covet it! =)

Unknown said...

These are all so pretty- got to say, I'm loving the white Viking stove.

Helena - A Diary of Lovely said...

I love big fancy kitchens but these ones have my heart, love the coziness and love all the books

audrey marie said...

great post! love all 3 of thsee!

KC said...

Ha! I totally know what you mean about most kitchens seeming so austere. These were all lovely choices!

Sara Kate said...

That top kitchen is one of my absolute favorites. Perhaps its because the owner is quite obviously a collector :)

Katie - House Rules said...

Great point! The second kitchen you posted is so lived-in and comforting.

536 Designs said...

I couldn't agree with you more...I love the lived in look...especially in the kitchen!!

shopgirl said...

These are adorable kitchens! I totally agree with you Mackenzie. Love them all.

Kelly said...

I agree, love the bookshelves next to the hood in the second photo! And third photo is actually one of my favorite kitchen inspirations.