Shea McGee proves how classic this kitchen color palette can be
Certain color and material combinations instantly conjure images of particular aesthetics. And while some feel more synonymous than others, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea of rigid kitchen styles.
There’s one kitchen color combination in particular that I’ve always felt points to one interior design style – a palette of white, blue, and natural wood tones. While it’s considered a classic choice, it’s also heavily associated with coastal style. And living in the countryside far from any beach, it’s always felt like the complete opposite of any kitchen ideas that feel right for my home.
That was until I saw this Studio McGee kitchen with that exact color combination. Considered shade selections and an elegant balance of materials used throughout the scheme have resulted in a timeless kitchen that feels far from cliche coastal – here’s a closer look at the sophisticated kitchen design.
‘We designed this kitchen years ago and I love that it still feels classic and fresh today,’ says designer Shea McGee in the reel. And classic is the perfect word to describe the space.
‘It’s where function meets character and that is all about choosing materials that will stand the test of time I think one of the most classic combinations is white, wood, and deep blue,’ she explains.
And it’s the choice to introduce a deeper shade of blue rather than something lighter that makes this scheme feel classic and sophisticated. Introduced to a run of wall-to-ceiling cabinets to the side of the kitchen and the lower cabinets surrounding the cooker, it feels chic and adds a grounding hue to the space.
In a coastal kitchen, I would expect to find white or wooden countertops. But to achieve the classic look of this design, a beautiful blue-toned natural stone has been introduced. It not only ties in seamlessly with the kitchen cabinets but also adds an unexpected detail that feels more unique.
(Image credit: McGee & Co/Studio McGee)
In contrast, the wooden island at the heart of the room gives the whole scheme a warmer finish. Not only does it hit one of this year’s biggest kitchen trends, but it introduces a softer, more natural finish – without which it would feel much colder and lack that sense of character that’s essential to the overall look of the design.
For me, the way the white has been introduced is what really ties the kitchen design together. Kept to the ceilings, walls, and the island countertop, the splash of white gives the room a freshness without feeling like the dominant color.
White has been carried through the decorative elements, too, from the pendant lights above the island to the upholstery on the bar stools, giving the scheme a cohesive finish. The combination of these features has created a design that would feel right at home in a new build or an older, period home.
But what I love most is the choice to go truly classic with the finishes. Warm metals work beautifully with blue and white, so the gold finish on the handles, faucet, and even the light fixture adds an element of traditional style that works so well with the overall scheme.
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned from this design, it’s that no aesthetic owns a color combination. While I’ve always thought of blue, wood, and white as a combination best suited to coastal kitchens, this design has proved the right tones can actually create an incredibly elegant and timeless scheme – no matter the style or age of your home.
A beautifully designed counter stool helps to create a seamless finish in your kitchen design. This stool, which features in the white, wood, and blue kitchen by Studio McGee, adds so much texture and visual interest.
Lighting is so important in a kitchen. Not only does it help with the functional elements of the space, but it’s key to the aesthetic too. These oversized white pendants are a stylish addition hung above your kitchen island for a layered, ambient design.
Oksana Distressed Cement Planter
Decor is the best way to bring extra interest and texture to your kitchen. The more rustic finish of this planter plays into the natural textures used throughout the scheme – and it’s perfect for potted herbs!
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel this year, take some extra time to consider the colors and materials you plan to introduce. The idea that certain colors are reserved for specific aesthetics is just another kitchen design myth to avoid falling for – and when designed right, you can create a truly elegant, timeless kitchen, as this Studio McGee design proves.
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