But while consumers demand a warmer ambience, they are not willing to forgo convenience. This has resulted in a new country style that is toned down, with simplified modern elements on a more streamlined background.
One of the more endearing styles that never went away is French country. French country kitchens draw their inspiration from old kitchens found in the south of France, with an emphasis on a comfy atmosphere where family and friends can enjoy each other's company.
"I knew exactly what I wanted," says Linda Dutoit, a software designer who shares cooking duties with her husband Andre.
"Even with all the modern contemporary style I see everywhere, I always loved the look of an upscale French country kitchen."
Their kitchen's rustic styling cues come from the use of wood floors, tumbled marble backsplash and earthy tones. The eye is naturally drawn to a hand-beaten copper sink imported from Mexico under a 1.2-metre garden window where Andre maintains his herbs.
The upper cabinets extend all the way to the ceiling, making the cabinets a part of the room's architecture. Larger cabinets mean more storage space. Crown rope moulding at the top of the cabinets adds a decorative touch to a functional space. The wood is painted a museum white and finished with a mocha glaze. The lower cabinets are in a contrasting eggshell moss lake green. Pulls are a brushed aluminum.
The appliances were disguised as much as possible, with panels on the refrigerator that matched the cabinets. Even the refrigerator pulls match the rest of the cabinets to blend in.
"This kitchen is more French classic than French country," says Elaine Beattie of MAC Renovations, who oversaw the project. "It's a step up from country, which can be more rustic."
She says the kitchen layout, with its two-metre island set in the middle of the food-preparation area, takes into consideration the Dutoits' fondness for cooking and entertaining. Her peers in the construction industry agree. The kitchen is one of the five finalists in the Best Kitchen in the 200- to 300-square-foot category in the upcoming CARE Awards.
"French country style does buck the trend," says Denise Bryson, who operates Transitions Design Limited with her husband Larry. The couple manufactured all the custom cabinets. "It is from a whole other realm and that's what makes the Dutoits' project so interesting and unique.
The French country look is more than just kitchens, say designers. Homeowners are just as likely to carry the theme throughout the house, making the kitchen's style an integral part of the home's decor.
"We're seeing more customers ask for cabinets that have a built-in look," says Julie Johnstone, the corporate designer for Merit Kitchens. "They are beginning to view the cabinetry as part of the architecture."
She says kitchen style, like women's fashion, can be cyclical. Right now, there is a swing away from cool looks and toward a more warm and comfy feel.
There are people who still like the modern look, but are turning their backs on Euro chic because they have found it too cool.
But not everybody is looking for a country look. Instead, some choose to equip their kitchens with Shaker cabinets instead of country. Merit clients are showing a preference for cabinets with a cleaner, more polished look.
The company has responded to demand, with cabinets now available with glazing rubbed over paint.
While the economic slowdown is on many people's minds, Johnstone is confident her industry will weather the storm.
"People generally renovate their kitchens every 10 to 15 years," says Johnstone. "It may mean people may not change the style as often, but in the end people are always willing to spend on perks."
--Canwest News Service
