12 Classic Kitchen Details to Copy
The most beautiful kitchens are often defined by the thoughtful details—those classic elements that add character, function, and a sense of permanence. From traditional millwork and decorative glass to hardworking features that make everyday life easier, these 12 kitchen details are worth considering when designing a space that feels both timeless and collected.
1. Decorative mullioned glass kitchen cabinet doors
From my home tour with Mannerly owner, Elizabeth Anne, where her 1990’s home was transformed into a Southern home masterpiece.
2. Cooking niche above range for oils and everyday seasonings
From my home tour with interior designer, Mary Margaret Underwood, of the home she grew up in and later purchased from her parents. With a thoughtful renovation to preserve so much of the history, Mary Margaret restored this Charles Barton Keen estate into a modern day haven.
3. Decorative pierced cabinetry
From my home tour with interior designer, Anne Pearson. Anne’s eye for color and fabric is highlighted in her own home where you can see room by room how to pulls it all together with soft, elegant layers and soothing paint colors — including this Sherwin Williams color in her kitchen.
4. Paneled side by side refrigerator
From my home tour with Becky Nielsen at one of her Charlotte, NC projects. The seamless integration of this large appliance allowed the kitchen to feel larger and warmer. You can see the full home tour here.
5. Double islands
What’s better than a large kitchen island? Two! From the same kitchen as above, these two islands serve as prep areas and casual dining or homework workstations. Notice the soapstone countertop on one and the butcher block on the other.
6. Ogee countertop edging
One of the easiest ways to infuse a timeless sense of style to your kitchen. Before ordering countertop material, ask your fabricator about adding an ogee edge. It’s usually not too large of an investment and makes such an impact. Budget friendly pro tip! Only do ogee edges on the island for a low cost, high impact detail! From my home tour with the founder of Eastover Collection — all the details here.
7. Casement windows that crank open
From one of the most popular home tours with Nashville interior designer, Kate Figler. You can see my home tour with her here!
8. Paneled pantry door
This one is also from my home tour with interior designer Mary Margaret. This small detail made the entire kitchen feel larger and added a bit of whimsy when you did open it!
9. Butcher block kitchen island
From my home tour with business owner, Laurie Simmons of Celedore. The butcher block countertop adds a warm contrast to the creamy white kitchen cabinets and subway tile backsplash.
10. Small outlet plugs
Plus other innovative kitchen design details from my home tour with interior designer, Whitney Sturge.
11. Two dishwashers next to the sink (with two faucets!)
From my amazing home tour with the homeowner and interior designer of this historic Myers Park home.
12. Tongue and groove ceiling
From my home tour in the countryside of Tennessee just outside of Johnson City. The estate built on family land is one you shouldn’t miss!
Whether you’re planning a renovation or simply looking for inspiration, these classic details are a wonderful place to start. For more traditional home tours, design inspiration, and ideas for creating a beautiful, gracious home, be sure to visit the Garden & Grace YouTube channel.
3 Things to Know About Timeless Topiaries
Whether you have a pair flanking the front porch or small trio perched in a kitchen window we love a topiary at Garden & Grace. Its structured imperfections and verdant color instantly elevate a room with sophistication and whimsy.
Whether you have a pair flanking the front porch or small trio perched in a kitchen window we love a topiary at Garden & Grace. Its structured imperfections and verdant color instantly elevate a room with sophistication and whimsy.
For today's post we'll dive into a few topiary tips, and, of course, share inspiration of these bulbous beauties along the way.
1. Many Plants Can Be Topiaries
A number of plants can be twisted and sculpted into towering (or tiny) topiaries. The best choice depends on which zone you live in. Boxwoods, one of the most commonly used plants for topiaries, thrive in zones 4–9, while Dwarf Brush Cherries prefer 9–11, according to the pros at Better Homes & Gardens.
Juniper, Monterey Cypress, Dwarf Alberta Spruce, Myrtle, Lilac Standard, Hydrangea Standard, Holly, Arborvitae and Waxleaf Privet also take home the topiary trophy. Most photos in this post include a variation of boxwood and myrtles.
2. They can grow indoors or outside
Topiaries thrive in the ground or in a container that can be displayed indoors or out. If you want to use a container, consider choosing one that's slightly smaller than twice the size of its nursery pot. Since topiaries tend to be quite vertical, choose a sturdy planter to ground it.
If you're planting the topiary outside, the pros suggest digging a hole two to three times wider than the root ball with the root flare peeking just above the soil. Surround the base with about two inches of mulch.
Get inspired: Tour a Storied North Carolina Garden
3. Upkeep is simple but constant
Topiaries require consistent, but restrained trimming about every four to six weeks, per The Cottage Journal. These plants often need sunlight and a healthy dose of hydration.
If you're not so keen on the upkeep, you can always order some of my favorite faux boxwoods from Amazon (pictured up top) or a small, preserved bunch.
Lately on the blog... interior designer Kate Figler shows off her masterful ability to layer color and patterns for one personality-packed Nashville home.