There are loads of ways to decorate a kitchen: you can make the room bold and eclectic, rustic and cozy, breezy and coastal, or surprisingly glam. And while all these options are worth considering, there’s something irresistible about designing—and spending time in—a classic kitchen.

Classic kitchens take cues from the kitchens that came before them. They’re filled with traditional cabinetry and quality materials. They’re lined with ornate trim and other historic details. And they’re dressed up with enduring accents, like striking window treatments, printed rugs, and full-blown works of art.

These designer-made classic kitchens range from sleek and simple to dramatic and opulent. But in every iteration, they’re elegant, traditional, and timelessly stylish—exactly the kinds of places you want to cook, host, and spend time in.

01 Keep It Simple With an All-White Palette

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There are lots of ways to craft a classic kitchen, but one of the easiest is to start with a timeless palette. Paint your walls and cabinets white, and stick with classic hardwood floors. The palette will immediately set the tone in your space, giving you a classic canvas to work with as you layer in fixtures and décor.

02 Hang a Classic Chandelier

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Crystal Raindrop Elegance Rectangular Chandelier - Faceted-Glass Crystals and Rain Drop Display for Dining Room and Living Room Lighting

Chandeliers aren’t appropriate for every kitchen—but in a classic kitchen, they feel right at home. Keep an eye out for something that looks genuinely vintage, and don’t be afraid to go understated. Since chandeliers are so showstopping, you can stick with something subtle and still make a statement.

03 Invest in Kitchen Window Treatments

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Window treatments are a must in any classic space—your kitchen, included. So spring for a set of printed curtains that bring the room together. Or keep it simple with a set of classic white blinds.

04 Line Your Walls With Art

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Art may not be the first thing you reach for when decorating your kitchen. But it should be, especially if you want your space to feel classic. Keep an eye out for paintings, drawings, and photographs that’ll dress up your kitchen, and consider slipping them inside some lovely antique frames.

05 Invest in an Ornate Faucet

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A faucet rarely makes or breaks a kitchen, but it can bring the room together. So, consider switching yours out with an ornate option. The upgrade may not make a statement on its own, but when paired with other traditional details, it’s sure to make your kitchen feel more classic.

06 Repurpose Your Favorite Antiques

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Resist the urge to fill your kitchen with brand new furnishing and fixtures and capture some truly classic style by weaving in a few antiques. Use an old armoire as a cabinet, turn a vintage console into a bar, or snag your kitchen sink from a local flea market.

07 Trade Sconces for Picture Lights

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Minimalist Design Metal Dome LED Indoor Sconce - Modern Swedish Design with Brass Construction

When it comes to lighting kitchen shelves, sconces and recessed lights are popular picks. But don’t overlook picture lights. Since the mounted lights are typically used to illuminate paintings, they’ll make an elegant addition to your kitchen. And they’ll give you all the light you need to brighten up your shelves.

08 Mix and Match What’s on Your Shelves

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When lining your kitchen shelves, don’t limit yourself to dishes, glassware, and cooking supplies. By mixing in some traditional décor—like paintings, books, and vases of flowers—you can dress up your shelves, lending some classic style to your entire kitchen.

09 Finish Things Off With Antique Hardware

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Want to put the finishing touches on your classic kitchen? Install some antique hardware. Replace all your knobs, handles, and pulls with vintage options. And consider leaving them unpolished. The aged details will make your kitchen look like it's decades old—even if you just redecorated it this year.