Etsy Urban Chic Décor: The Kitchen

I would like to begin this post by thanking Nicole for the opportunity to do this décor feature. It’s an honor to be included in your excellent blog, Nicole. I actually decided to focus this first post on Nicole’s favorite room, the kitchen. She’s a wizard in the kitchen, isn’t she?

One can achieve an urban chic design in the kitchen quite affordably. Etsy has many wonderful artists who create amazing, fresh designs to fit any budget and style. So, as you can imagine, I didn’t have any trouble finding enough items for this feature. It was more of a problem trying to narrow it down to just a few.

What is my idea of “urban chic”? I envision it as crisp, clean, neutral in color with perhaps a splash of sharp color, more textural and unisex in design, simple lines for furnishings, a mix of natural elements and industrial, elegance, and a splash of surprise in the form of edginess, urban decay or humor. That’s how I define the look in my mind and in the vision I have for this post.

In my opinion, every room should have original artwork. One can manage this quite easily. There are many affordable pieces out there. If you’re really strapped for cash, make your own original art and display it proudly. I have chosen one of my favorite Etsy artists, the inspired Aiysah Ang, for this room’s wall art. This gorgeous original mixed media painting creates the exact right mood.



The simple, clean lines of this kitchen island by robrray is a good combination of warmth from the wood and modern from the metal. The fact that this piece was created from reclaimed wood salvaged from an old building on Times Square makes it extra special. Any kitchen, and any chef, would benefit from this unique piece. Not only is it functional, but it has lots of storage space on the bottom shelf as well as fabulous racks on the ends to hang towels and other necessities.



A touch of whimsy combined with an industrial look creates a fun décor statement for this urban chic kitchen. With this vintage chalkboard from blue bell bazaar you can achieve just that. It’s a must-have! Just think of the fun you would have writing a quote of the day, a love note, messages, menus, lists, drawings and anything else you can come up with. It’s sleek and perfect in design with the attached stand because it doesn’t take up too much valuable counter space.



This light fixture by resurface is the epitome of my idea of the all important urban decay element. I’m in love with this piece! The look of graffiti, the splash of color, and the fact that it provides good lighting makes it an essential addition to any room, especially our urban-themed kitchen. You could hang it over your center island, an eat-in kitchen table or if you have a tiny kitchen, center it over the entire room. It will be the star of your kitchen.



White plates, platters, mugs, bowls, vases…White is the best choice for your urban chic kitchen. White shows off whatever it’s being used for; whether it’s food, flowers, plants, anything at all. You can mix and match shapes and textures and designs and white will always look fabulous and fresh. I’ve chosen two fabulous pieces for our kitchen look:

The first item is this long, oval, white porcelain tray. It would be an ideal addition. You can use it for any occasion as a serving dish or to display some fresh produce. It has texture with a handmade organic look. Not too much detail, but enough detail to make it an interesting accent piece.



The second item is from the Alyssa Ettinger’s “Milk” collection. A perfect, white porcelain replica of the old-fashioned milk bottle. Isn’t this the most marvelous vase you could ever find? I love the idea of this antique styled piece set into a modern kitchen. A magical combination of old and new.



An urban chic kitchen needs to be functional as well as stylish, and what does every chef need in a well-stocked kitchen? A chopping block. This end grain cutting board by appcraftsmen is not only beautifully made, it’s durable. I love that it has rubber feet on the bottom so there is no worry about slipping while working with that sharp knife. The design of the wood is so gorgeous.



And last but definitely not least, what every kitchen should have; sweet treats. No explanation necessary, right? My idea of an urban chic treat (yes, I do believe food can be urban chic) is a delectable smackeral of sweetness in the form of Whimsy and Spice marshmallows. Here are the maple marshmallows which, of course, would be an excellent accompaniment with tea or coffee. The only problem you’ll have with these marshmallows is sharing them.

There you have it, a few of my décor suggestions for the urban chic look. I hope you’ve enjoyed browsing through these exceptional shops, and perhaps you’ve been inspired. It’s my wish that you are inspired by something you’ve seen in this post. Achieving a certain look shouldn’t be intimidating; it should be fun and exciting. That’s my message to you. Decide what style speaks to you, know your budget, look for the inspiration, and achieve your goal of creating that perfect room. After all, your home is an expression of who you are.

Thank you so much for spending this time with me…

~ Dennice of fringe