Kitchen Kraze

Over the last few months I've seen a growing interest in kitchen renovations from clients, friends and family.  My Real Estate Agent friends also tell me that people are looking to buy homes with mediocre kitchens so that they can build the spaces of their dreams to meet their specific needs.  It's worth the investment too because a good kitchen renovation can increase the value of your home by up to 15%!

I love a classic white kitchen with marble counters, open shelving, and restaurant grade appliances - it's a favourite look in the design community and the shelter magazines because it's timeless, elegant and works for almost any style.  

BUT... I also want to see something different. 

So where to start, you ask??

With any kitchen client, the basic functional needs are similar:  good storage, ample counter space, improved lighting, and overall better flow and integration with the rest of the home for the way people are living today.  We spend a lot of time getting the layout right to maximize every inch of space and provide a highly organized work space customized to the client's specific culinary needs (or lack thereof!).

However, from an aesthetic point of view, the sky's the limit! 

Once we've determined we're going classic, transitional or contemporary, 

the options for finishes are extensive.

Here are some recent inspiration shots that were chosen for 3 different clients - all of whom said they didn't want a white kitchen.  

You'll see a variety of styles for classic, transitional and eclectic kitchen styles.

I love how the quartz top on the counter was used for shelving on the island.
Open and closed storage allows for function and pretty to live together in harmony.

I like the different materials used for the island to create interest and drama

Industrial pendants and metal cabinet doors really make a statement in this eclectic kitchen by Nate Berkus.

A classic white kitchen with a twist - the punch of blue cabinetry with wooden counter top on the island turns this traditional kitchen into a real showpiece!

How smart is this?  See how happy mom is?

I would love to see these finishes in a loft with concrete floors and exposed brick walls.

Aya Kitchens

I think grey is the new white - it's definitely a classic look!

Now, scroll back to the top and look at how different all the light fixtures are in each space.  Each kitchen style can accommodate a variety of lighting options based on the feel of the space.  

Lighting is an integral part of kitchen design; whether to add sparkle and drama, or to contrast with the cabinetry, enhance counter tops and of course, provide much needed task lighting.

This is just a tiny sample of how you can create a truly unique space that fits your family's lifestyle and your design aesthetic... 

and why it's a great idea to hire a designer to help you get the best looking kitchen in the neighbourhood!

images via

Kitchen Lighting

I'm about to start work on a new kitchen project and while researching for lighting options and looking through my archives I realized how much I dislike seeing the traditional recessed lights that provide the necessary but completely unappealing overhead lighting around the perimeter of the counter surfaces.

I then ran into some gorgeous... 

Diamond Baratta

These vintage fixtures are a stunning contrast to the slick granite counters sitting on the traditionally carved wooden legs of the island.  And, as long as you're looking up... how about these ceilings?  Wow! 

via Decorati

I love the unabashed luxe of this chandelier as it reflects off a stunning silver textured ceiling.  What really made me do a second take was how intriguing it was to use sconces along the top perimeter walls instead of recessed lighting in the ceiling.   Of course, with the intricate treatment on the ceiling you wouldn't want to interrupt it with spots of pots!

via Dabble Design by Erinn Valencich  Photo by Adrian Anz

For a modern kitchen like this one, I like that the fixtures are so sleek and simple.  There are actually a few recessed lights, but the white on white blends seamlessly into the ceiling and the drop pendants really draw your eyes down and away from the ceiling.  How about this curved island?  What a nice way to soften the otherwise clean lines of the space.  I like the glitter of the back splash too!

Tommy Smythe

The mix of rustic and modern elements in this black & white kitchen by Tommy Smythe is classic but the massive wrought iron lantern truly takes center stage almost dwarfing the farmhouse table.

Does the back splash tile look familiar? (see Decorati photo 2 shots above)

Amy Lau

The kitchen cabinetry plays a supporting role here as the backdrop for the multi-coloured showstopper of a chandelier and the clean lines of the mid-century modern dining table and chairs.  Exquisite as expected from designer Amy Lau.

This little display goes to show that you don't always have to stick to the rules when it comes to lighting.
Express your personal style and look for alternatives to recessed lighting - you may just end up with a piece of art hanging from above and create a one of a kind kitchen you'll love to come home to.