Monday Musings - Captivating Kitchens

Did you know that I collect kitchens? I used to keep scrapbooks of pictures of kitchens which I still look at  from time to time and it's quite interesting to see how kitchens have changed over the years. 

Apparently the biggest change in kitchens arose because of a change in our perceptions of cooking. When cooking started being seen as a creative, and sometimes social act instead of work, there was a trend towards integrating kitchens with living areas. Families welcomed the trend towards open kitchens, as it made it easier for the parents to supervise the children while cooking. For people who love entertaining, the open kitchen has the advantage that they can be with their guests while cooking, and for the "creative cooks" it might even become a stage for their cooking performance. 

There is also a huge trend towards very sleek, modern kitchens, with completely empty surfaces, integrated appliances and state of the art equipment. You know the kind I mean - they look like no actual cooking ever happens in them. But, don't worry, you won't find pictures of them on the pages of this blog.

I like kitchens that look like people cook in them, families live in them, the appliances are used, the cutting boards are weathered and worn, the surfaces might be a bit battle-scarred and they are warm and inviting. 

But, having said all of that, I don't like kitchens that are too cluttered, and that are so functional that no thought has been spared on aesthetics. I think you need to pay as much attention to your kitchen decor as you do on any other room in the house. 

These are some kitchens that I have in my collection that are my current favourites. No more commentary ... just pictures. 

What appeals to you in a kitchen? Did any of these push your buttons? I would love to hear.

Till next time

Sharon x

Images: 1. Pinterest  2. David Michael Miller  3. Kevin Harris Architects  4. Mary Evelyn Interiors  5, 6, 7, 8. Tumblr 9. Coastal Living 10. Decorare 11. Crush cul de Sac 12. Elegant Interiors 13. Georgiana Design 14. Mike Hammersmith  15. Indulge Decor Blog 16. Pinterest - Brooke Gianetti  17. Inspiring Interiors