If you want to give your kitchen a touch of elegance and a cozy feel, why not take inspiration from the charming ambiance of a bistro or restaurant? Bistros are known for their water and music, colorful artworks on the walls, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. This collection of 14 bistro kitchens will give you plenty of ideas to create the perfect design for your own kitchen.
Bentwood is a material that feels right at home in a bistro setting. With its rich history and timeless appeal, it adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. The large collection of bentwood chairs and bar stools at Richard Allison’s Bistro and Restaurant bring a charming Parisian flair to the space.
Inspiring detailing can be found in the lighting fixtures and sconces that adorn the walls and ceiling. Scrolled ironwork and decorative glass shades create a romantic and cozy atmosphere that feels like a vintage café in Paris. Over at Tasco, a popular neighborhood bistro, the black and white tiled floor is a nod to the classic design elements of a French bistro. The simple yet elegant color scheme of black and white is timeless and will always be in style.
If you’re looking to add a pop of color to your kitchen, consider using vibrant tiles. The Perigord collection at Olympia Tiles offers a range of colorful options that will make your kitchen come alive. Whether you opt for a bold statement piece or a subtle accent, colorful tiles can transform your kitchen into a work of art.
When it comes to storage, bistro kitchens are all about efficiency and functionality. Open shelves and cabinets with glass fronts make it easy to showcase your collection of dishes and glassware. A built-in banquette or a cozy corner with a small table and chairs can provide the perfect spot for a quick meal or a leisurely breakfast. Don’t forget to incorporate a kitchen island for additional storage and countertop space.
The key to designing a bistro-style kitchen is to create a space that feels warm, inviting, and full of character. Whether you want to recreate the ambiance of a bustling French bistro or give your kitchen a quaint and cozy feel, these design ideas and inspiration will help you achieve the perfect balance of style and functionality. So why not take a tour of these 14 beautiful kitchens and bring a taste of France to your own home?
Industrial Chic
If you’re tired of the same old bistro-style kitchens and want something a little more edgy and unique, the industrial chic style might be the perfect option for you. Incorporating elements of raw, unfinished materials and vintage-inspired details, this style takes inspiration from the urban industrial settings and creates a warm and inviting kitchen with a touch of coolness.
A Little Bit of History
The industrial chic style originated from the remodeling of old factories and warehouses into living spaces, where the exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and large metal windows became aesthetic features instead of construction details. It’s all about embracing the raw, unfinished beauty of the space and highlighting its authenticity.
Key Elements
In an industrial chic kitchen, you’ll find a mix of materials such as wood, metal, and stone. Exposed brick walls and concrete floors create a rugged backdrop for the kitchen, while vintage-inspired light fixtures and metal shelving add a touch of nostalgia. Open shelving allows you to display your favorite dishware and add a personal touch to the space.
The color palette in an industrial chic kitchen is typically neutral, with shades of grey, brown, and white. However, you can incorporate pops of color in your accessories, such as vibrant artwork or a Moroccan-inspired backsplash.
For seating options, consider adding bentwood chairs or stools to add a classic touch. A large communal table made of reclaimed wood can be a focal point in the kitchen and provide plenty of space for family and friends to gather.
Creating an Industrial Chic Kitchen
To create an industrial chic kitchen, start by choosing simple materials and focusing on their natural beauty. Replace your tired old cabinets with open shelves made of reclaimed wood or metal. Instead of a traditional backsplash, consider using subway tiles or even a chalkboard wall for a unique and functional detail.
For lighting, opt for vintage-inspired pendant lights or sconces that will give your kitchen an authentic bistro feel. Add some industrial-style bar stools for seating and consider incorporating metal details into your appliances or hardware.
Finally, don’t forget the finishing touches. Add some artwork or framed posters to the walls, and don’t be afraid to mix in some vintage pieces or repurposed items from flea markets or antique shops. These small details will give your industrial chic kitchen a unique and personalized touch.
Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet neighborhood, an industrial chic kitchen can be a great option if you’re looking to create a stylish and functional space. So let your creativity run wild, and transform your kitchen into your own little “bistro” with these industrial chic design ideas.
Rustic Elegance
If you’re looking to create a warm and intimate vibe in your bistro-inspired kitchen, incorporating rustic elements can be an excellent option. Known for their modest and traditional charm, rustic kitchens are popular for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
When it comes to the décor, pottery is a great way to add a touch of rustic elegance. Whether it’s a little pot on a shelf or a large serving dish on your dining table, pottery can bring a subtle and colorful contrast to the overall design. You’d always find these decorative pieces in a traditional bistro.
Another way to embrace rustic elegance is through the use of wood. Whether it’s the flooring, cabinetry, or shelves, incorporating wood elements adds warmth and character to the space. You can even build a platform or an island using distressed wood for a more authentic and rustic feel.
For lighting, consider using pendant lights with a woven or cortina design. These lights provide both functionality and style, giving your kitchen a warm and cozy ambiance. You can also opt for more traditional lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers or wall sconces, to add a touch of elegance to the space.
When it comes to the seating area, bentwood chairs and round tables are usually associated with the “bistro” vibe. These classic pieces provide a charming and intimate seating arrangement, perfect for enjoying a meal with your spouse or hosting a coffee break with friends.
In terms of tableware and storage, open shelves with woven baskets or wooden crates can add a rustic touch while also providing excellent storage options. You can display your colorful plates and bowls on these shelves, adding pops of color to the overall décor.
Whether you’re tired of the same old kitchen design or looking to create a cozy and intimate space, incorporating rustic elements into your bistro-inspired kitchen can transform the room into a warm and inviting oasis.
Modern Minimalism
In the world of bistro kitchens, a popular design choice is modern minimalism. This style embraces clean lines, simplicity, and a sleek aesthetic. A common element found in modern minimalistic kitchens is a backsplash made of sleek and glossy tiles, creating a minimalist yet sophisticated look.
When it comes to the color scheme, neutral tones such as white, black, and grey are usually favored in modern minimalism. This allows the focus to be on the clean and uncluttered design, which is essential in bistro-style kitchens. The main goal is to create a space that is inviting and inspiring, without overwhelming the senses.
To achieve the modern minimalistic look, open shelving is often used to display kitchenware and accessories in an organized and aesthetic manner. Scrolled detailing on the shelving adds a touch of elegance and European flair. Additionally, the use of chalkboard paint on the walls or cabinets can be an interesting and functional design element, allowing for notes, menus, or recipes to be written or drawn.
Lighting is a crucial aspect of modern minimalism, as it helps create a warm and inviting ambiance. Pendant lights with clean lines and simple designs are often used to illuminate the kitchen island or dining table. Under-cabinet lighting is also recommended to bring more light to the countertops, making meal preparation easier and more efficient.
In terms of furniture, a round table in the center of the kitchen is a popular choice. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also creates a more social and inviting atmosphere. Whether you prefer a small bistro table or a larger dining table, the round shape enhances the bistro-style feel of the kitchen.
For the countertops, materials like quartz, marble, or granite are commonly used in modern minimalistic kitchens. These materials not only provide a sleek and timeless look but are also durable and easy to maintain. Integrated sinks are recommended in this style, as they create a seamless and clean look, while also being within easy reach for food and dishwashing.
One designer who is known for her modern minimalistic bistro-style kitchens is Ingrid Mazen. She has transformed many homes, particularly in Toronto, into inviting spaces that embody the essence of a Parisian café. Her use of neutral colors, clean lines, and minimalistic detailing creates a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic.
If you’re looking to build or renovate a bistro-style kitchen in your own home, consider incorporating the principles of modern minimalism. It’s a design style that not only looks amazing but is also affordable and practical. Whether you’re a fan of the sleek and simple look or prefer a more colorful and vibrant kitchen, modern minimalism can be tailored to suit your personal taste and style.
When it comes to bistro kitchens, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re inspired by the classic and inviting look of a traditional French bistro or the modern and sleek design of a café, there are numerous ways to bring this style into your own kitchen. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a space that not only looks amazing but also functions perfectly for your culinary adventures.
Vintage Charm
If you’re tired of the usual modern and sleek designs in kitchens, then a vintage-inspired bistro or restaurant-style kitchen might be just what you’re looking for. There’s an undeniable charm and timeless feel to these kinds of spaces, which always seem to exude a warm and welcoming vibe.
One word that’s often associated with the vintage bistro style is “Parisian.” Known for its excellent cuisine and romantic atmosphere, Paris has long been an inspiration for many restaurant and cafe owners. In fact, the term “bistro” itself is derived from the Russian word “bystro,” meaning “quickly,” showing how these establishments were traditionally known for their fast service.
In a vintage kitchen, you’ll usually find a mix of materials and textures that create a cozy and intimate space. Wood is often used for the cabinetry and island, while subway tiles or wallpaper with subtle patterns serve as the backdrop. Iron fixtures and rattan chairs or banquette seating add to the french cafe feel, while shelves filled with vintage dishware and artwork complete the look.
One of the key features of a vintage kitchen is the use of vintage appliances. These can include antique stoves and ovens, such as the ones made by Wolf or Cortina. Oversize industrial-style pendant lights are also a common fixture, adding to the old-world charm.
If you’re considering creating a vintage bistro or restaurant-style kitchen in your home, there are a few essential elements to consider. First, the layout should be designed to allow for easy movement and flow, whether you’re working alone or entertaining guests. Second, the color palette should be kept understated, with muted tones and shades of grey. Finally, incorporating vintage elements, such as Thonet chairs or a rustic farmhouse sink, will truly bring the vintage charm to life.
Design Ideas and Inspiration
Here are a few design ideas and inspiration for creating a vintage bistro or restaurant-style kitchen:
1. Parisian Flair
Incorporate elements inspired by the cafes and bistros of Paris, such as wrought iron detailing, round bistro tables, and classic French typography on the walls.
2. Vintage Appliances
Add a vintage stove or oven as a focal point in your kitchen. These appliances can be functional and stylish, giving your space a truly authentic feel.
3. Artwork and Decor
Hang vintage or vintage-inspired artwork on the walls to add character and charm to your space. Consider using Cafe de Paris or Parisian street scenes as inspiration.
Overall, creating a vintage bistro or restaurant-style kitchen is a way to bring the elegance and charm of Paris into your own home. With the right mix of materials, furnishings, and decor, you can design a space that feels intimate, timeless, and full of vintage charm.
Farmhouse Flair
If you’re looking for farmhouse-inspired kitchen ideas, then the 14 bistro kitchens featured in this article will give you plenty of inspiration. One of the standout design choices in these kitchens is the use of blue. Whether it’s on the walls, cabinets, or in decorative accents, the incorporation of blue adds a subtle touch of style and sophistication.
Bring the Cafe Vibes Home
One of the key elements in bistro-style kitchens is the use of an island as a focal point. This can be a large, round table with seating for family and friends, or a more practical choice like a chef’s work platform. Whatever the choice, the island serves as a gathering place and adds a touch of Parisian charm to the room.
There is also something about the herringbone floors that give these kitchens a certain je ne sais quoi. The herringbone pattern, reminiscent of a French cafe, provides a timeless backdrop for the rest of the room’s design.
Inspired by Paris, Designed for Your Home
One of the designers who contributed to this collection is Colin Wikkerink. He founded the 14 Bistro Kitchens project in February 2022. Inspired by the world of bistrot and restaurant kitchens, he wanted to create a platform to showcase the creativity and practicality of these spaces.
If you love rattan and wicker furniture, then these kitchens will be a dream come true. Many of the featured kitchens incorporate rattan chairs or stools, giving them a laid-back, inviting feel. The use of rattan also adds a subtle texture to the space, creating a visually interesting contrast with the stone or tile floors.
Lighting and Storage Solutions
When it comes to lighting, fixtures with an industrial or vintage look are a popular choice. These fixtures add a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the space. Whether it’s a large, statement chandelier above the island or a row of pendant lights hanging above the bar, the right lighting can truly transform the atmosphere.
Storage is also a key consideration in these kitchen designs. From open shelving to built-in cabinets, there are plenty of options for keeping your kitchen organized and stylish. Banquettes are also a popular choice for seating and storage, providing an inviting spot to enjoy a meal while keeping extra linens or utensils close at hand.
By incorporating farmhouse flair into your kitchen, you can create a space that feels both chic and inviting. Whether you’re looking to bring a little slice of Paris to your home or simply want to add a touch of rustic charm, these 14 inspiring kitchens will give you plenty of ideas to work with.
So, if you’re ready to give your kitchen a makeover, why not take a cue from the 14 bistro kitchens featured in this article and bring some farmhouse flair into your own home?