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The versatile and popular Mission style, often called the U.S. counterpart to the British Arts & Crafts movement, came into being in the early 20th century and has never entirely left the scene since.

This American artistic movement drew its influences from such eclectic sources as traditional Japanese prints and furniture, the British Arts & Crafts movement, Shaker furniture in the heartland, and much more.  Just as the British movement had turned away from the Industrial Revolution's mass production and the Victorian era's decorative excess, the Mission style strove for simplicity, straight lines and natural, subdued materials. Some years later, Art Deco took a cue from Mission's uncluttered look and came up with a sleek, streamlined look of its own.

And, as its heritage suggests, the Mission style has a simplicity that belies its sophistication, making it a harmonious fit with a surprising variety of decorative schemes.

The Mission style's essential qualities: clean, square or rectangular lines, especially on door frames; medium to dark wood tones, often with wood specially chosen for beautiful effect (e.g. quarter-sawn oak); even in the most rustic setting, a simple elegance and fine craftsmanship that speaks for itself. Many Mission cabinets incorporate inlays or other subtle decorative treatment - leaded glass insets, hardware with a handcrafted look. When in doubt, with regard to these accessories, err on the side of simplicity.

Mission cabinets can be a great setting for dishes as diverse as Chinese porcelain, Fiestaware or handmade pottery, and they work well with a variety of appliance styles and finishes. It's essential to choose their design with a view to the overall effect, of the whole kitchen and the adjacent areas. With the Mission style's clean lines, there's a lot of flexibility, but the whole look has to work.

When you're discussing your plans with your building expert, make sure you mention any special pieces you want to showcase, and the surrounding furniture that should harmonize, not clash, with your new kitchen.

Mission Kitchen Cabinets / Shaker Kitchen Cabinets / Country Kitchen Cabinets / Italian Style Cabinets / Asian Style Kitchen Cabinets / Primitive Kitchen Cabinets / European Style Kitchen Cabinets / Contemporary Kitchen Cabinets