How to achieve an Italian cafe-style kitchen

Published on: 26/07/2010Homeowners aiming to install a new kitchen with an Italian cafe feel can do so in various ways, according to one expert.

Helen Green of the Terry's Fabrics blog says this particular kitchen design can be a good way to bring charm into a property.

She notes that the Italian cafe look tends to make use of dark colours on the walls - including deep reds, greens and browns - that are complemented with lighter hues such as cream.

Decorative, bistro-style tables also suit this type of fitted kitchen, while dark or black woods are "the way forward" in Italian traditional kitchens - materials that could be particularly ideal for kitchen units.

"If you have a larger family make sure you can at least tick these boxes when a bistro table doesn't offer enough dining space," Ms Green says.

Homeowners may also want to make use of kitchen accessories such as a coffee machine displayed alongside a collection of Italian coffees in continental canisters and coffee mugs showcased on shelves or a hanging rack.

Posters and art prints with Italian text and images may also be a suitable addition to Italian-style kitchens.