European Country Kitchen Elements will help if you’re after Country French, Belgian Minimal, French Cottage, English country, Nordic, or Tuscan flavor. It may sound like a tall order, but many of the tenets apply to a number of European influenced schemes. Also, I’m a dreamer with a wide imagination. Sometimes you just need an imaginative friend to see things from an alternative perspective. Whether you love color, no color, and especially if you’re after an effortless, unfussy look, these design elements may add sophisticated simplicity.
![Hello Lovely's renovated Modern French kitchen with Amber Lewis/Loloi rug, F&B Pavilion Gray cabinets, and skirted farm sink. #modernfrench #europeancountrykitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/001-amber-lewis-loloi-rug-zuma-ocean-runner-hello-lovely-studio-kitchen-1440x1920.jpg)
European Country Kitchen Elements
You’ll quickly see that “European Country” is far from a singular look! So many ways to design a unique European inspired space for living, cooking, and dining. But what if you have no plans or budget to remodel or change your sink? My suggestions below will help you see the possibilities. And we DO seem to live in our kitchens today so it pays to be extra thoughtful when you’re planning yours.
![A beautiful Dairy Table (deVOL) in the English country kitchen renovated at Castle Trematon with House of Hackney wall covering and design. #dairytable #devolkitchens #castletrematon](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Trematon-kitchen-deVOL-3.jpg)
Vintage & Antique Textiles
It’s funny. Islands and kitchen peninsulas are so popular these days that we don’t see a lot of traditional eat-in kitchen spaces with tables set with linens. But fabrics that are old or have an Old World look can certainly add personality and European country identity.
![Chateau Domingue Timeless European Country Kitchen Elegance and French farmhouse style. Come see 24 Inspiring European Country Kitchen Ideas!](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/old-world-stone-walls-country-french-paintings-breakfast-dining-chateau-domingue-ruth-gay-home-hello-lovely-studio-005.jpg)
In Ruth Gay’s kitchen (above), the antique fabric is upholstery on these gorgeous chairs.
![White French Nordic dining room with German antique grainsack and galvanized bucket of hydrangea on table - Hello Lovely Studio. #frenchnordic #diningroom #frenchcountry #whitefrench #grainsack #hydrangea #benjaminmoorewhitesand](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/french-farmhouse-dining-room-white-hello-lovely-studio-grain-sack.jpg)
I used an antique German grain sack as a runner on a dining table in our former home (above).
![Detail of grainsack pillow and Belgian linen cushion on the window seat in our kitchen. #hellolovelystudio #belgianlinen #windowseat #frenchcountry #inteirordesign](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/00012-european-country-french-hello-lovely-studio-belgian-linen-cushion-window-seat.jpg)
If there’s a place for a pillow on a chair, bench, or window seat like mine above, think about how you might bring age and texture with fabric or upholstery.
Fabric inserts in a cupboard can bring softness and balance.
![Amber Lewis x Loloi runner rug in my modern French kitchen with Calacatta Gold marble backsplash - Hello Lovely Studio. #modernfrench #greykitchens #viateramuse](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/001-hello-lovely-studio-amber-lewis-loloi-zuma-ocean-rug-24.jpg)
The linen skirt in my current kitchen is a Belgian nubby sheer-ish fabric I collected years ago. Something romantic happens when you break up an expanse of wood cabinetry with a peekaboo surprise.
I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.
![Hello Lovely's kitchen with modern French style - come shop the look! #modernfrench #frenchkitchen #hellolovelystudio](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/001-hello-lovely-kitchen-banner-hellolovelystudio-modern-french.jpg)
![@homebymarie - Farrow & Ball All White and Green Smoke in a kitchen, #farrowandballgreensmoke #greenkitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/homebymarie-all-white-green-smoke-farrow-ball-kitchen.jpg)
Even vintage or vintage-inspired towels can be a design element to reinforce a European country feel. Look for Turkish or French stripes, linen, checks, and grain sack material.
![Quote about awe and seeing by Cole Arthur Riley in THIS HERE FLESH. #inspirationalquotes #contemplativequotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/cole-arthur-riley-quote-beholding-awe-this-here-flesh-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
How to Incorporate This Element
Have a spot where a linen runner can cozy up the space?
![Frayed Linen Runner on a trestle table in a lovely California warm modern kitchen - Jenni Kayne Home. #linenrunner #warmmodernrustic](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-33.png)
Even a large island that feels a little too sterile may be warmed by a runner.
![Laurel Hand Towel draped over apron front sink in beautiful warm kitchen with unlacquered brass faucet, Jenni Kayne Home. #linentowels #warmrusticmodern #californiacozy](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-32.png)
I love the quality and timelessness of kitchen linens curated by Jenni Kayne!
Rustic Wood Ceiling
It’s not the easiest kitchen design element to add AFTER the fact, right? But the warmth of wood truly brings a layer of rusticity to European country kitchens.
![HGTV Fixer Upper "The Club House" French country kitchen with wood ceiling beams, white cabinets, and design by Joanna Gaines.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/fixer-upper-the-club-house-kitchen.jpg)
Sometimes it is about subtracting what’s there to reveal ceiling rafters and the stuff above drywalls. And in the high end projects we see, it’s about adding reclaimed wood that has developed patina you simply cannot duplicate without the passage of time.
![Rustic wood ceiling over marble waterfall kitchen island. Interior design by Michael Del Piero (Richard Powers - photo) for TRAVELED AND TEXTURAL (Beta-Plus, 2023). #modernrustic #michaeldelpiero](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/michael-del-piero-fond-du-lac-richard-powers-kitchen-waterfall-marble-island.jpg)
I love how creative homeowners think about smaller areas where wood planks can make a big statement.
Sometimes homes come with dated features that no longer serve such as garden bay windows (hello, 1970s) or bump-outs that don’t make sense with windows that are failing.
So if you’re renovating and have the chance to elevate them and turn them into a design feature? Score.
It also bears mentioning that rustic wood kitchen ceilings don’t belong in every home. Cottages, mountain lodges, farmhouses, and rustic country houses are more likely going to be a good fit.
![Rustically elegant French country cottage kitchen with reclaimed wood ceiling and glazed green tile baskplash inspires! Decor de Provence.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/hello-lovely-desiree-ashworth-home-42.png)
But there are wood ceilings that are less rustic and feel right at home in more modern homes.
![Modern farmhouse white kitchen with beautiful wood ceiling detail and breathtaking architectural design - The Fox Group. #modernfarmhouse #thefoxgroup #kitchendesign #woodceiling #traditionalkitchens #twotonekitchen #zinchood #whitekitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/the-fox-group-white-modern-farmhouse-coastal-kitchen-scott-davis-photo.jpg)
And even in kitchens with low ceilings, there may be an opportunity to enjoy wood beams that won’t compete.
What a blessing when your rustic wood ceiling is original and who knows…maybe hiding within popcorn texture.
Notice the difference a light painted ceiling makes when compared to…
![Modern French farmhouse kitchen in home near Round Top, TX, designed by Kirby Mears for Eleanor Cummings, interior designer.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/eleanor-cummings-kitchen-round-top-milieu-magazine-french-farmhouse-2.jpg)
a richly dark one:
![New England style kitchen designed by Artichoke with Michael Smith for a Kensington home. Handpainted cabinetry, steel, and antiqued zinc were the primary materials in this amazing bespoke kitchen. #englishkitchen #londonkitchen #bespoke #artichoke](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/artichoke-kitchen-london-4.jpg)
![Happiness quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #happinessquote #inspirationalquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/anxiety-quote-brain-survival-everywhereist-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
How to Add Rustic Woodsy Warmth
If you love the look and feel of rugged old wood but won’t be touching your ceiling, think about how you can add it with useful items that double as decor.
![Antique Decorative Rustic Wood Board, Pottery Barn. #rusticwoodboards #europeancountrykitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-39-1440x1296.png)
It’s so easy to find old boards these days everywhere. I have four rustic wood cutting boards on my counters this minute.
![Antique Decorative Rustic Wood Board, Pottery Barn. #rusticwoodboards #europeancountrykitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-38-1440x1296.png)
Some will be decorative only and can be hung on the wall or styled near the range. But don’t underestimate the power of new boards as well.
![Antique Decorative Rustic Wood Board, Pottery Barn. #rusticwoodboards #europeancountrykitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-40-1440x1296.png)
After all, with use and time, they will begin to age and get better looking!
![Seagrass Produce Bowls on a terracotta tile floor - Jenni Kayne Home. #seagrassbowl #warmmodernrustic #rustickitchen](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/image-34.png)
Texture from seagrass bowls is another way to bring a bit of warmth that feels relaxed, timeless and casual.
![Etty Hillesum quote from Holocaust about love on Hello Lovely Studio. #holocaustquotes #lovequotes #ettyhillesum](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/ETTY-HILLESUM-quote-about-love-and-source-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
Alternative Wall Cabinets
Whether you are redesigning your kitchen and repurposing existing cabinets as we did or buying new, you need not line the walls with upper wall cabinets if you don’t need the storage.
![Serene white and light grey European country kitchen with Viatera Muse quartz counters, calacatta gold backsplash, and Pavilion Gray painted cabinets - Hello Lovely Studio. #eiderwhite #modernfrench #europeancountry #viateramuse](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/IMG_5544.jpg)
So many American kitchens are characterized by jamming as many wood boxes on the walls and floor as possible.
![Traditional and elegant white farmhouse kitchen with grey and brass accents - The Fox Group. #kitchendesign #modernfarmhouse #traditionalstyle #classickitchens #thefoxgroup #beadboard #greykitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/white-grey-modern-farmhouse-kitchen-the-fox-group-salazar-photo.jpg)
But you skip wall cabinets completely if desired. Or skip the doors. There are so many creative ways to get a more relaxed European inspired look in the kitchen. Look what happens when you add a decorative custom trim to door-less cupboards:
And it’s not as though you have to make a solid commitment if you’re toying with the idea. As long as you finish the inside of a cabinet so that it is pretty to your eye, you can always change your mind and re-install the door.
Even including a teeny bit of glass on an upper cabinet can be glorious:
![#costello_fine_homes - Farrow & Ball Parma Gray painted kitchen. #farrowandballparmagray #bluekitchens #bluekitchencabinets](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/farrow-ball-parma-gray-kitchen-costello.fine_.homes_.jpg)
What a difference it makes when you tile the full wall and can enjoy it through glazed doors!
![@allisonabneyinteriors - Farrow & Ball Bancha and Vert de Terre in a beautiful bespoke green kitchen. #farrowandballbancha #farrowandballvertdeterre #greenkitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/farrow-ball-bancha-vertdeterre-allisonabneyinteriors-green-kitchen.jpg)
Adding just one glass door for your pretty things to glow is going to be an opportunity to inject personality and interest.
![@honeycollinsinteriors - Farrow & Ball Parma Gray on kitchen cabinets. #farrowandballparmagray](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/honeycollinsinteriors-parma-gray-farrow-ball-kitchen.jpg)
![Funny quote about laundry on Hello Lovely Studio. #laundryhumor #momhumor #momquotes](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/funny-laundry-quote-humor-on-hello-lovely-studio.jpg)
Realistic Idea for Adding an Alternative Upper Cabinet
If new, custom cabinetry is not in the cards, what about adding a freestanding cupboard for storage and display?
Another possibility is to remove a door, finish the inside, and add a few decorative molding pieces like this:
![Yellow coastal kitchen - @cameron_ruppert_interiors (Stacy Zarin Goldberg). #yellowkitchens](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/cameron_ruppert_interiors-stacyzaringolberg-yellow-kitchen-classic-coastal.jpg)
An Effortless Look (Or at Least It Appears Effortless!)
You can’t get too much more laid back than a Leanne Ford approach, and her sensibilities seem to echo those of European country.
![Hello Lovely's white European country modern French kitchen with Minuet Viatera quartz counters, farm sink, industrial cart, and marble subway backsplash.](https://www.hellolovelystudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/hello-lovely-studio-white-kitchen-oak-floor-marble-subway-backsplash-industrial-cart-stool-1.jpg)
Stay tuned for Part 2, and find more kitchen inspiration HERE.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
Thanks for shopping RIGHT HERE to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!
Hello Lovely is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
So many beautiful kitchens!
Love the quote about brains! So true.
Author
Great to hear from you, Elizabeth – happy new week to you, friend.