Kitchen

How to get a provincial-style kitchen in just 6 steps

Tips from a provincial kitchens expert.

Provincial kitchens -or French provincial kitchens, as they’re sometimes known – are a sophisticated yet rustic kitchen style that originated from the provinces of France. The style is an elegant fusion of town and country design elements combined to create a timeless yet warm interior.

Getting the provincial ‘look’ right in your own home can be a little tricky without any guidance, so we consulted the founder of Provincial Kitchens Home, Dominique McAdam, to get the low-down on exactly how to replicate the provincial kitchen look yourself.

Step #1 Cabinetry

Traditionally, provincial kitchen cabinets are constructed with a frame around a recessed centre panel, often referred to as shaker-style cabinets, explains Dominique.

“This cabinetry is popular in provincial style kitchens because of their solid, traditional lines and detailing. Posts, cabinet doors and side panels should be thicker and chunkier than in modern kitchens. Clean, simple lines and cabinets in frame are also key to achieving that classic provincial look.”

Step #2 Colour

Dominique recommends sticking to matte, grey-based whites for your provincial kitchen, as these shades are the traditional choice.

“These colours create a bright and reflective space, and capture the right vibe for a provincial style kitchen. For the more adventurous, use variations of blue, green or grey painted wood cabinetry can provide an interesting alternative to white.”

Step #3 Bench tops and splashbacks

“Natural stone, such as Carrara marble, soft grey Dolomite, or even black Pepperstone granite bench tops are my preferred choice for a timeless look. The beauty of marble is undeniable and classic,” says Dominique.

For splashbacks, she recommends using ceramic or marble tiles in subway, square or herringbone shapes, accentuated with white, black or grey grout to complete the look.”

Step #4 Hardware 

When it comes to achieving a polished look, the devil is in the details.

“Complete the provincial look and add a bit of bling to the kitchen with polished nickel and chrome handles and tapware,” says Dominique.

Step #5 Accessories

The small details are often the things that make the difference.

“Using antique accessories such as old wire baskets, wooden or metal pegs, towel rails, open shelving with detailed brackets for support,” says Doninique.

Step #6 Lighting

“Lighting is the final touch on your provincial kitchen. A series of pendant lights above the island have always been the mainstay. However, what I love is one unique antique light strategically positioned over the island bench.”

Watch the country-style kitchen before and after makeover video below. 

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