Without seeing a photo of your kitchen, I would suggest some rustic accessories to downplay the contemporary look of your cabinets. The wenge cabinets in this inspiration photo are sleek and modern but the rustic barstools, warm wall color and natural accessories remove the "edge".

Since I do not have an island, what kind of table and chairs would you suggest that are not minimal yet do not look out of place in the modern kitchen I have described ?And what light fixture would tone down the modern look? Remember, I don't want it to look "old", just less minimal.

Since my area of expertise is countertops, I would say add a soapstone countertop. Soapstone has a very vintage/historic feel, but it's also coming back into vogue in newer homes with modern designs, so it will tie in the cabinets with any other English country design elements you add. Also, try lighting with bronze or black frame and seeded glass! That will instantly give the room a warmer, more traditional look than if you were to add stainless steel.

Like the lighting suggestion. Unfortunately we won't be able to make any more changes to countertops.They are cream and look fine. We estimate remodelling is in our next five year plan. However, I will certainly keep the soapstone countertop in mind.Has anyone got any suggestions for kitchen table and chairs? Should I just keep it simple and forget about the English look for now?

Change the hardware on the modern cabinets. Try To find a distressed table. Update lighting and there you go. These small things make a big impact. Hope that helps. Charmean Neithart

Bar stools could be an industrial, reclaimed wood combination. Back splash could be redone a white subway tiles pattern, adding decorative legs underneath the island overhang. Rustic hardware and faucet in an oil-rubbed bronze. Bead board, different lighting. There is a lot that can be done tastefully. New door and drawer fronts, new vent hood in a copper. Crown molding above cabinets. Paint the trim around the window white, add a cornice or a valance in a toile type print. Change your wall color to something lights....etc. A contrasting island color could be a real showstopper.

A distressed/rustic table would be right at home in your modern kitchen.

You can find really cool antique furniture on ebay and craigslist...something very unique that will be the focal point of the room.

Two year old post. Happy to help if you still need it?

Adding interesting hardware (pulls and knobs), granite countertops, and rustic lighting fixtures can do wonders for your modern kitchen cabinets. The best way to make them look more traditional is to make them look more warm, cozy and rustic looking.