The Look
Instead of settling for one or two island heights, why not have three? Here, a raised bar with stools, a sizable length of standard-height counter for the main island for cooking and a low, table-height area to create a bar or buffet space.
Villa Kitchens & Fine Cabinetry. Tile backsplash, Saltillo Tile Imports. Jake bar stools, Sarah Richardson Design. Kitchen cabinetry, Breakfast table, island pendants, white ceramic accessories, Of Things Past. Chandelier, Elegant Garage Sale.
Eschew White
While white is classic, cheery and bright, it can also be stark and clinical, so why not try a cooler shade? Here, two distinctly smoky greys create a looser, more flexible vibe, easily transforming the kitchen from lunch counter to wine bar depending on the hour of day.
Paint colours: Walls and ceiling: SR 18 Jetstream (P2103-04) Trim: SR29 Snowfall (P5223-14D) Perimeter cabinets: SR43 Shoreline (P2718-04) Island: SR73 Herringbone (P5244-52D)
High Quality Appliances
When it comes to selecting appliances, get the best you can afford, especially in terms of stoves. By channelling your inner chef, you may soon find that your favourite restaurant doesn’t require a reservation.
Refrigerator, dishwasher, range, vent hood, beverage centre, Jenn-Air Appliances.
Use Fabric
Chairs are far more welcoming when dressed with seat and back cushions. As long as you pre-wash your fabrics to avoid shrinkage and use removable covers with zipper closures, the sins of sticky fingers and messy eaters can be erased with a quick spin cycle.
Faux bamboo chairs and shelf: SR43 Shoreline (P2718-04), Sarah Richardson Designer Palette for Para Paints. Faux bamboo chairs, Of Things Past. Fabric, Kravet Fabrics.
Simple Interventions
Mouldings and trim details are the hallmarks of a custom builder, yet can easily be added to give rooms more stateliness.
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