Early American Kitchens

Pictures and Design Themes

Early American kitchens fit in with the Colonial, Georgian, and Federal architectural styles that date from about 1640 to 1840. Throughout our nation's history, architects have borrowed ideas from these early American styles to create the Colonial Revival and Neocolonial styles which we still use today.

Early American Kitchen with Weathered Blue Cabinets

Weathered blue shaker cabinets, gray soapstone countertops, knotty hardwood floors, and a rustic kitchen table speak to the early American style in this bright country kitchen.

History: When the New World was colonized, settlers from Britain, France, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, and other European countries brought their own building traditions from their native homelands. Adapting their familiar styles to the new landscape and climate, they developed many uniquely American styles.

Design Features: While America's approach to kitchens has expanded with modern ideas and technology, the design elements of the early American styles have not. They feature early American ideals of uncomplicated design, straight lines, and little ornamentation. Plain furniture feet on the cabinetry along with simple posts and turnings split vertically as a facade are some of the decorative features that can be incorporated onto early American kitchen cabinets.

Setting the Space: Wide-plank wood floors can bring a sense of history and warmth to your early American home, and should be continued into kitchen as well. Natural light coming from wood-framed windows will add a sense of serenity to the space. A simple hood or apron sink can create a focal point in the room. Try decorating with historic dishes, an old clock, early American furniture, or chests from another room to make the kitchen design uniquely American and full of history.

Kitchen Design Photos: Below are some pictures of kitchens in various early American-inspired styles. Take notes of what you like, and keep a journal of your own kitchen design ideas. If you enjoy the beauty and simplicity of these photographs, be sure to take a look at our galleries of cottage, shaker, and country kitchens as well. Enjoy the photos!

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