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kitchen renovation

designing-a-family-friendly-kitchen-tips-and-tricks-for-renovation

Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies, the sound of laughter filling the air, and the sight of your family gathered eagerly and lending a helping hand. This heartwarming scene is not just a distant dream but an achievable reality through thoughtful design and careful planning. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with expert tips to create a family-friendly kitchen that fosters togetherness and enhances functionality. 

From smart layouts and durable materials to clever storage solutions, you’ll discover innovative ideas to design a space tailored to your family’s unique needs. So, let’s create a beautiful, functional, and inviting kitchen that strengthens family bonds and creates cherished memories.

So, What Exactly Makes a Kitchen Family-Friendly Anyway?

A family-friendly kitchen is a magical concoction of thoughtful design, intuitive functionality, and an atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home. It’s a space that caters to the unique needs of each family member, from the culinary maestro to the little sous chef in the making. The secret lies in striking a balance between aesthetics and practicality, creating an environment where memories are made and taste buds are delighted.

In the quest for the perfect family-friendly kitchen, consider factors such as layout, materials, storage, and, of course, safety. Combine these elements with a dash of personal touch and a sprinkle of love, and you’ll have a kitchen that not only looks good but is also a joy to use for the whole family.

Location Matters: Where to Place Your Family-Friendly Appliances and Fixtures

Location matters, especially when it comes to designing a family-friendly kitchen that promotes efficiency and safety. In this endeavor, the arrangement of appliances and fixtures plays a crucial role. So, how do we ensure that our kitchen setup ticks all the right boxes?

Enter the time-tested kitchen work triangle – the ideal placement of the sink, stove, and refrigerator to streamline movement and minimize steps. By positioning these three key elements in a triangular formation, you’ll create a smooth workflow for all your culinary adventures.

But don’t stop there! Consider the proximity of other appliances and fixtures as well. Place the dishwasher adjacent to the sink for easy dish transfer, and locate the microwave near the prep area to expedite heating and cooking tasks.

Incorporating kid-friendly zones is another essential aspect of a family-friendly kitchen design. Designate lower cabinets or drawers for children’s plates, cups, and snacks, empowering them to participate and fostering independence.

If you’re hiring a contractor instead, verify their license and compliance with safety regulations. Failure to do so may result in costly legal proceedings if you decide to sue your contractor.

Picking the Right Cabinet Material 

The heart and soul of your kitchen are the cabinets. They hold your favorite dishes, the spices that evoke memories of grandma’s cooking, and even that secret stash of cookies (we won’t tell!). So, when choosing the ideal material for your cabinets, finding the right balance between durability, beauty, and affordability is essential. 

Here’s a peek at some popular contenders:

  1. Solid Wood: 

Nothing says “welcome home” like the rich warmth of solid wood cabinets. With an array of wood species and finishes, these timeless beauties will surely add a touch of elegance to your culinary sanctuary. Just remember that high-quality wood cabinets can be quite the splurge.

  1. Plywood: 

If you’re seeking a sturdy yet budget-conscious option, plywood cabinets have got you covered. They offer both strength and a smooth surface, making them a fantastic choice for those who value both quality and cost-efficiency.

  1. Particle board: 

Constructed from wood chips and sawdust bound together with resin, particle board cabinets provide an economical option for those on a tighter budget. While they may not be as durable as their pricier counterparts, they still serve as trusty kitchen companions.

Picking the Right Countertop Material 

When it comes to countertops, you need a material that can handle your most daring kitchen escapades while still looking fabulous. Behold a few top-notch options:

  1. Quartz:

Imagine the enchanting beauty of natural stone combined with the resilience of engineered materials. That’s quartz for you! Non-porous, stain and scratch-resistant, and available in a dazzling array of colors and patterns, quartz countertops are a dream come true.

  1. Granite: 

A natural stone classic, granite countertops bring a touch of sophistication to any kitchen. Not only do they provide heat and scratch resistance, but they also come in unique patterns and colors, ensuring your kitchen is truly one-of-a-kind.

  1. Concrete: 

For those who crave an edgy, industrial-chic vibe, concrete countertops are a versatile and customizable option. Cast them in any shape, stain them, dye them – the possibilities are endless! Plus, they’re durable and heat-resistant, making them perfect for even the most ambitious chefs.

  1. Laminate: 

Easy on the wallet but still stylish, laminate countertops offer a cost-effective alternative for those looking to mimic the appearance of more expensive materials like wood or stone. With modern laminate options available in a plethora of colors and patterns, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

So, take a deep breath and embrace the adventure of selecting the ideal kitchen cabinet and countertop materials for your dream kitchen. By considering your unique needs, style preferences, and budget, you’ll be well on your way to creating a space that reflects your personality, nurtures your culinary creativity, and feels undeniably, irresistibly human.

Designating Areas for Preparing and Serving Food

Let’s explore the nuances of designing a kitchen space that fosters creativity, connection, and a dash of human magic.

  1. The Preparation Zone: A Culinary Canvas

The preparation zone is where the magic begins – where fresh ingredients are transformed into mouth-watering dishes. To create an efficient prep area, consider the following:

  • Counter Space: Allocate ample counter space near the sink and refrigerator, allowing for easy access to ingredients and a convenient spot for washing and chopping. Opt for a durable and easy-to-clean countertop material that can withstand the demands of your culinary adventures.
  • Storage Solutions: Keep frequently used utensils, cutting boards, and mixing bowls within arm’s reach to minimize movement and streamline your cooking process. Consider adding pull-out shelves, drawer organizers, or a pegboard for easy access and organization.
  1. The Cooking Zone: Where Flavors Come to Life

Once your ingredients are prepped and ready, it’s time to bring them to life in the cooking zone. To create a functional and enjoyable cooking area, keep these tips in mind:

  • Appliances: Position your stovetop and oven in close proximity to your prep area to facilitate a smooth transition between tasks. Ensure that there’s adequate counter space on either side of your cooking appliances for placing hot pots and pans.
  • Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a comfortable and safe cooking environment. Invest in a quality range hood or vent fan to eliminate smoke, steam, and cooking odors.
  • Cooking Utensils: Store your pots, pans, and cooking utensils near your cooking zone for quick access during meal preparation. Hanging racks or pot rails can be an efficient and stylish storage solution.
  1. The Serving Zone: A Stage for Your Culinary Masterpieces

Finally, the moment of truth – presenting your lovingly prepared dishes to your family and friends. The serving zone should facilitate a seamless transition from the kitchen to the dining area. Here’s how to achieve this:

  • Plating Area: Designate a counter space for plating and garnishing your dishes. Ensure that it’s easily accessible from both the cooking and dining areas, allowing for a smooth flow of dishes from the kitchen to the table.
  • Buffet or Sideboard: If space permits, consider adding a buffet or sideboard to your serving area. It can serve as a convenient spot for setting out dishes, providing additional storage, and even offering a dedicated space for beverages and desserts.

Maximizing Storage Without Sacrificing Style

Let’s take a stroll through the world of creative storage solutions that will turn your kitchen into a delightful haven.

  1. Shelves That Make You Swoon

Think of shelves as the runway models of your kitchen – they strut their stuff while showcasing your favorite items. Open shelves not only offer practical storage but also add a touch of flair to your space. Pick materials and finishes that complement your kitchen’s vibe, and don’t be shy to mix and match for a look that’s uniquely you.

  1. Built-Ins

Why settle for off-the-rack when you can have it custom-made? Built-in storage solutions, like cabinetry, window seats with hidden compartments, or even a pantry tailored to your needs, can effortlessly blend functionality with style. Up the ante with glass-front cabinets, snazzy door designs, or colorful interiors to make your storage spaces as dazzling as they are practical.

  1. Break Free from the (Cabinet) Mold

Who says storage has to be confined to plain-Jane cabinets and drawers? Let your imagination run wild with quirky storage solutions like repurposed vintage crates, hanging baskets, or even a decorative ladder adorned with hooks for your kitchen must-haves. These offbeat storage options inject personality and charm into your space while keeping your kitchen essentials organized and accessible.

By marrying style and storage in your kitchen design, you’ll create a space that’s as functional as it is fabulous. 

Investing in Equipment That Will Stand the Test of Time (and Little Hands)

Let’s delve into the world of durable, kid-friendly kitchen tools and appliances that will keep your kitchen running smoothly while nurturing your family’s love for all things culinary.

  1. Heavy-Duty Cookware

When it comes to cookware, durability is the name of the game. Look for pots and pans made from materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or hard-anodized aluminum that can handle the rigors of daily use (and the occasional roughhousing). 

  1. Knives That Slice Through the Years

A high-quality knife is a kitchen essential, and investing in a set that can withstand the hustle and bustle of family life is a wise decision. Opt for knives with forged blades made from high-carbon stainless steel, as they provide excellent durability and edge retention. And don’t forget to add a kid-friendly knife set to your arsenal, allowing your little ones to join in on the chopping action while keeping safety in mind.

  1. Appliances That Go the Extra Mile

Kitchen appliances are the workhorses of your culinary space, so it’s essential to choose models that can stand up to heavy use (and curious little hands). When selecting appliances like mixers, blenders, or food processors, look for brands with a reputation for quality, durability, and safety features like auto shut-off and secure locking mechanisms. It’s an investment that will pay off in the long run as your family enjoys countless kitchen adventures together.

  1. Utensils That Won’t Let You Down

Opt for utensils made from materials like silicone, stainless steel, or heat-resistant nylon, which offer durability and resistance to heat and staining. And for those little chefs in training, invest in a set of kid-friendly utensils that can handle their enthusiasm without sacrificing functionality.

  1. Unbreakable Dinnerware

With kids in the mix, accidents are bound to happen, and your dinnerware needs to be prepared for the occasional drop or tumble. Look for unbreakable dinnerware options made from materials like melamine or high-quality plastic, which provide the durability and style you need without the risk of breakage. These resilient options will ensure that your family meals remain stress-free and enjoyable, even when things get a little chaotic.

By investing in equipment that can stand the test of time and the curiosity of little hands, you’ll create a kitchen that’s both functional and family-friendly. Choosing durable, high-quality tools and appliances not only enhances your cooking experience but also encourages your family to create lasting memories as they explore the joys of cooking together. 

Brighten Up the Space with Colorful Accents and Décor Elements that Double as Entertainment

Transform your kitchen into a stimulating haven for family fun by incorporating captivating and interactive design elements that inspire creativity and togetherness:

  1. Interactive Wall Art

Revitalize your kitchen walls with something interactive that encourages your children to play and learn. Consider chalkboard paint or magnetic boards that allow them to express their creativity, practice writing, or display their masterpieces, all while adding a touch of artistic flair to your space.

  1. Engaging Storage Solutions

Invest in storage solutions that are both visually appealing and practical, such as colorful shelves, transparent jars, or magnetic knife strips. These design elements not only add a pop of color but also provide easy access to kitchen essentials and keep your countertops clutter-free.

  1. Colorful Dinnerware and Utensils

Incorporate vibrant dinnerware and utensils into your kitchen to liven up mealtimes. From brightly colored plates and bowls to patterned placemats and napkins, these lively touches will turn every meal into a festive occasion, keeping your children engaged and entertained.

  1. A Rainbow of Appliances

Why settle for standard appliance colors when you can brighten up your kitchen with bold hues that reflect your family’s personality? Choose appliances in striking shades that stand out and bring a sense of fun and energy to your culinary space, all while harmonizing with your chosen paint colors.

By infusing your kitchen with colorful accents and décor elements that double as entertainment, you’ll create an inviting and stimulating environment that nurtures your family’s love for cooking and spending time together. 

Implementing Safety Features Into Your Design Plan

It’s crucial to implement safety features that protect your little ones while preserving the aesthetics and functionality of your space.

  1. Rounded Edges and Corners

Sharp corners and edges pose a risk to curious children exploring their surroundings. Opt for countertops and furniture with rounded edges and corners, reducing the likelihood of injuries and maintaining a sleek, modern appearance.

  1. Slip-Resistant Flooring

Invest in slip-resistant flooring materials like cork, vinyl, or textured tile, which offer better traction underfoot and minimize the risk of slips and falls. These materials not only provide a safer environment but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.

  1. Childproof Cabinets and Drawers

Incorporate childproof locks and latches on cabinets and drawers containing potentially dangerous items such as knives, cleaning supplies, or heavy cookware. This safety measure ensures your children’s curiosity won’t lead to accidents while keeping your kitchen essentials secure and accessible.

  1. Appliance Safety

Choose appliances with built-in safety features such as auto shut-off, cool-touch surfaces, and secure locking mechanisms. These features reduce the risk of burns, spills, and other accidents, ensuring a safer cooking experience for the entire family.

  1. Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy kitchen environment, as it helps to remove cooking odors, smoke, and harmful pollutants. Incorporate a range hood or an exhaust fan into your design plan, ensuring clean air and a comfortable atmosphere for your family to enjoy.

  1. Fire Safety Precautions

Equip your kitchen with essential fire safety precautions such as a fire extinguisher, smoke alarm, and fire escape plan. These simple yet crucial measures provide an added layer of security, safeguarding your family and your home.

Conclusion

Designing a family-friendly kitchen is a thoughtful process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. You can transform your kitchen into a haven of culinary creativity, family bonding, and delightful memories by considering the right materials, designated areas, storage solutions, durable equipment, colorful accents, and safety features. 

Remember that your kitchen should be a reflection of your family’s personality, needs, and style preferences, making it a space where everyone feels welcomed and inspired.

If you found these tips and tricks helpful, don’t forget to share this blog with friends and family who may also be considering a kitchen renovation. After all, there’s nothing like spreading the joy of creating a kitchen that’s truly the heart of your home. Happy renovating!

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5-tricks-for-helping-your-older-kitchen-fit-modern-times

The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home. If your space is lacking in design and function, know you are not alone. An older kitchen with outdated design is a common complaint among homeowners. Look no further to learn our top five tricks for helping your older kitchen fit in with modern times.

Thinking about doing some upgrades to sell your home in the spring market? Learn exactly how to sell your property to get top dollar and understand the importance of hiring a real estate professional to help guide your sale.

Cabinet Refresh

A commonplace that makes an older kitchen feel outdated is the cabinets. Giving your existing cabinets a refresh with a coat of paint can make your kitchen feel modern and clean. Those ultra-warm oak tones of the 90s are plaguing your space giving an outdated appeal. Instead, dive into endless color options for playful and modern design.

Consider selecting a rich tone for your lowers, and a bright and clean shade for the upper cabinets. Or go for a clean and crisp white or light gray all over for an airy look to your space.

You can either hire a professional to paint your cabinets or do it yourself to save some money. Know that if you decide to tackle the project on your own it’s best to do some research and understand that it is not a one-day job.

Metal Upgrade

Cabinet hardware and kitchen fixtures are like the jewellery to your space. These finishing touches may seem like they don’t matter, but they can make a big impact. If you’re stuck with an old outdated finish, or builder-grade cabinet pulls, give them a modern upgrade to bring your older kitchen into today’s times. 

Get creative by mixing metals (maybe consider combining edgy black with timeless brass) for added interest and a high-end design. When selecting your hardware, go for something that is beautiful, but also functional. 

Countertops Matter

A large piece of your kitchen real estate is your countertops. If yours are looking dull and outdated, consider investing in some new ones. If you can’t afford real stone countertops, think about looking into man-made stones or engineered stones. If your space is on the smaller side, you can also ask about purchasing a remanent of a slab for a lower cost. 

If these options are out of your budget, know that Formica countertops have come a long way in the last 30 years. They can give you the look you crave at a fraction of the cost.

Splash of Modern

Another way to upgrade your outdated kitchen is to install a backsplash. Selecting a fun, modern tile can make a big impact on your space. If this is too pricey for your liking, consider using a peel-and-stick version to give the look you’re after at a much more reasonable cost. 

Let There Be Light

Our final tip on updating your kitchen space is to upgrade your lighting. This can be as simple as swapping out your existing fixtures, or hiring a professional to add recessed can lighting for a bright, cheerful finish to your space. Consider adding under-cabinet lights for a moody feel in the evenings, and bright light on your countertops while cooking. Lighting can instantly make a space feel more modern.

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how-to-do-a-diy-renovation-of-your-kitchen-on-a-budget

There comes a point in every homeowner’s life when the kitchen starts to look a bit dated. If you are on a strict budget then you may feel like you just have to live with it since kitchen renovations can be so expensive. The problem is that a dated kitchen will eventually be one that is not very usable as things progressively get worse. 

There are ways to save money on renovations, including the kitchen. In fact, with the right strategies, you can update your kitchen for thousands less than you would expect to spend. Sometimes, a renovation can be a hybrid between an actual renovation and a makeover. Both can make the kitchen more functional. 

In this article, we will go over some of the ways you can save money doing a DIY renovation. 

The cabinets

There are two main things that should be changed in a kitchen renovation. The cabinets and the appliances. The appliances are an obvious one since old ones don’t work well and are not nearly as energy-efficient as new ones. Buying new appliances will essentially pay for themselves. 

However, new cabinets will transform the kitchen in many different ways. You can organize your kitchen to be more useful since you will improve its workflow. And it will also look updated and not like a retro throwback to an earlier time. 

RTA kitchen cabinets are the best choice since they are ready to assemble which makes them ideal for the DIYer. Even if you aren’t very handy, installing cabinets yourself is doable and will save a ton of money. 

The flooring

Putting in a beautiful hardwood floor can be very expensive. The materials cost a lot and it requires a professional since it is usually beyond the ability of most DIYers. However, you can have a beautiful-looking floor that replicates hardwood for a fraction of the price and easily install it yourself. 

There is what is called a floating floor or laminate flooring. These are basically planks with a cover on them to simulate hardwood but are actually laminated plywood. They are called floating floors because they are installed over the existing floor over a styrofoam blanket and actually can move around to a degree. 

They cost a fraction of a hardwood floor and can be installed easily in a day if you work in two. They click and lock on each other so there is nothing to assemble really. The only thing you need to do is cut them at their ends to fit against the wall with a gap so they can expand. 

Give it some paint

Once the cabinets and floors are done, a fresh paint job is going to seal the deal. The look of the kitchen can be tied together well with the right color scheme. It is what will update the look and bring it to modern times instead of looking like a blast from the past. 

Pick the colors that will work best with the color of the floor if you decided to go with a natural wood effect. 

FOR THE KITCHEN…

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how-to-give-your-kitchen-a-modern-look

The kitchen is said to be the most-used room in a home. Many of us gather there for chats, family meals, parties, and cooking, so it must be a room you like the look of and enjoy being in. If your kitchen is looking a bit tired and dated, here are some tips on how to give your kitchen a sleek, modern look. 

Paint it

Nothing cheers up and cleans up a room like a fresh lick of paint. You can paint the walls or, if you are really inspired, paint the kitchen units. The latest trend is to paint the wall cupboards a different color than the base units. Black or navy is very “now” and will give your kitchen an expensive, classy look, especially if you accessorize with gold or rose gold trinkets and utensils. If you don’t want to cast gloom on an already dark kitchen, opt for classic white paint. A white minimalist kitchen always looks clean, spacious, and modern.

Build It In

It is essential for a sleek-looking kitchen that all units are flush with the walls and with each other, and no furniture is sticking out beyond the clean lines. Opt for built-in appliances that are hidden behind doors or give them a built-in look by sealing off all spaces and gaps with gratings or panels. 

Change the Hardware

An inexpensive way to instantly update your kitchen is to replace old wooden cupboard handles with funky new ones. Hardware is available in many different colors and shapes, so look for something modern in polished chrome or even gold. If you can, create a super streamlined look by leaving your doors handleless and furnishing them with push-open fittings. A modern fridge-freezer with stainless steel trim will look like a futuristic machine as it sits snugly beside your units.

Upgrade Appliances

The design of kitchen appliances is continuously evolving. A modern kitchen needs modern devices, so rather than spending money on replacing units, invest in a quality built-in oven or free-standing modern range cooker. Stick to white or stainless steel goods as colored appliances can go out of fashion quickly. 

Accessories can make or break a look. Modern accessories will create a modern look. Clutter does not help create a sleek look, so clear all surfaces and keep worktop adornments to a minimum. Ensure you have plenty of storage in which to hide stuff away from sight. If you are lucky enough to have a walk-in larder or utility room, store small appliances and items you don’t use every day in there.

Accessorize your kitchen

Some geometric ceiling light fittings made from gold or copper wire will provide some color and interest to a monochrome kitchen. Framed abstract prints and wall art can personalize your space so that it isn’t too clinical looking.

Small kitchen appliances like kettles, toasters, and coffee machines are available in futuristic-looking designs, and they can look like works of art sitting on your kitchen worktops.

SHOP KITCHEN FAVORITES…

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5-factors-to-review-kitchen-renovation

When the time comes to upgrade your home, the kitchen is often the number one choice for most families. Most of us consider the kitchen the epicentre of any home. If your budget is limited and a complete renovation is not possible, you can still achieve outstanding results by updating a few specific features. However, having a generous outlook on your expenditure will pay off in the long run.

A kitchen renovation will Increase the Appeal and Value of your Home

There are numerous advantages to improving this key area of your home. The illusion of space can be amplified, you will be able to enjoy modern functional updates, and your productivity will increase. When planning the details of the renovation, you should also plan to update the appliances in the room, which improves functionality dramatically. The alluring project can also enhance aesthetics as even the smallest of changes can make a massive impact. Lastly, remodelling radically increases the value of your home, which will make it quicker and easier to sell.

Upgrade your Appliances

There will be times when appliances stop serving their purpose. One way to upgrade is by replacing appliances with modern and appealing models. You can purchase newer models of ovens, microwaves, and cookware. A review of Made In cookware will help you decide on the best cookware you can buy to upgrade the overall functionality.

Revamp your Cabinets

Cabinets are one of the first features to be upgraded as they are an obvious requirement. They are also the first thing to get stained or damaged. If you want to modernize your cabinets, you can start with the hinges, and latches, as this improves the look significantly. Some homeowners even go so far as installing self-closing cabinet mechanisms which prevent slamming and allow you to take whatever item you want out of the cabinet and walk away without worrying if you have left it open or not.

Sinks, Faucets and Hardware

Sinks, faucets, and hardware are the third most replaced elements. These elements are often upgraded together with counters. New fixtures and more efficient faucets can make anything from washing the dishes after dinner to cleaning vegetables for a salad more pleasant. Enhancing these factors can even make your home more environmentally friendly.

Wall Design

The fourth most common design option that will have a massive impact is the walls. Whether you choose flat paint, a unique painting technique, wallpaper, or paneling, the walls can affect the look and feel of the entire room by influencing the first impression your kitchen can offer. Simple paint is probably one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce up the look as well.

As a homeowner, you cannot start tearing down walls or any permanent fixtures in preparation of making significant changes until you have a budget. Your budget should detail all the relevant costs when doing a complete kitchen remodel. If your budget is somewhat restricting, the modifications as mentioned above will undoubtedly cost far less than a renovation. You can still make impactful changes that will make your kitchen stand out more than before and be the space that you envisioned it to be. The features mentioned above are worth considering and will give you the most flexibility in designing your new dream kitchen.

SHOP KITCHEN …

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white-shaker-style-kitchen-will-never

The white shaker style kitchen has been seen in kitchens for years! So is this style ever going out? It seems like very Pinterest board, very magazine and every home improvement show has the white shaker style kitchen.  So why is this style so popular?

The Shaker kitchen

Shaker style furniture is known for it’s simplicity and some may say ‘minimalist’ design.  The shaker design refers to the door style – it is a 5 piece door, with a recessed center.  The shaker style drawer could either be a flat panel (which we see in more modern style kitchens where detail is minimal) or you could see the 5 piece door in a drawer. 

This is an incredibly popular style because of it’s versatility but also it is so transitional depending on your handle choices for instance, you can make the cabinet suit any style of decor.

The White kitchen

Still the most popular choice for homeowners – they are clean, fresh and classic.  White works with all styles – you can easily add or incorporate elements of wood in flooring, counter tops or even some reclaimed wood accents.  You can mix your hardware style and finish.  Add glass cabinets and floating shelves, marble backsplash or subway…you can do so much with this colour of kitchen!

This is the best of both worlds – the simple design in white.  It’s perfect!  You can adopt this white shaker style kitchen to just about any style by adding the hardware and accents like back splash, lighting, faucets and more….

Here are some of our favourite examples of amazing white shaker style kitchens:

This white shaker style kitchen is perfection – the mix of the apron sink with the goose neck faucet, the herringbone marble tile backsplash and the oversized stainless steel pulls – makes this white kitchen anything but boring!

This white shaker style kitchen has a bit of a classic meets vintage quality.  The mix of the pulls and knobs in the antique black finish gives some depth and contrast.  The subway tile in the staggered formation with the dark grout looks vintage (like something you would find in a bistro). The open wood shelving add a decorative touch and keep the kitchen from looking traditional and the marble countertops add another classic element. 

Keep it traditional and add an antique touch to the clean lines of a shaker cabinet by adding some crystal knobs and pulls – this adds a great ‘bring’ factor, too! The white subway tile, the white quartz counter and the glass cabinets keep it classy in this all white kitchen.  The cabinetry style is the perfect back drop for all the more detailed elements!

Yes, brass is making a comeback – some of you are cringing….but it looks so fresh in the all white kitchen!  We love the mix of knobs and pulls – it’s a designer look and it really ups the look of the entire kitchen.  The brass adds great visual impact but also a warmth in this all white kitchen, as does the wood floor.  A simple kitchen cabinet can really stand out with great details.

So why do we think this white shaker style kitchen will never be out?

Because classics are never out of style.  They may fade in popularity but they never fade away. 

So if you are considering a kitchen renovation don’t overlook this classic and transitional style – it is perfect in every way,

SHOP KITCHEN PIECES…

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farmhouse-kitchen-style

The farmhouse kitchen is a style that we are seeing a lot of and it’s a trend that doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon.  I think the timeless nature and the warmth that a farmhouse kitchen offers are just two of the reasons why this style is sticking around.

It seems like we are getting back to basics when it comes to home renovations and design style.  We are turning back to ‘simpler times’ for inspiration and for the kitchen especially – it is the heart and soul of the home – so not only should it look beautiful but it should also be functional. 

If you are considering a farmhouse kitchen renovation in your home…

Here are the 8 essentials in a farmhouse kitchen: –

1.  A generous sized island

So practical for serving and for prepping.  Stock the island with an over sized sink, dishwasher, microwave shelving ,open or glass shelving and don’t forget seating.   The kitchen island is always the ‘hang out’ in the space so going bigger is something you will not regret. 

 

2.  Storage. 

If you have some odd corners consider custom cabinetry for more storage, these spaces are perfect for storing entertaining essentials like extra stemware, table linens and stoneware.  You can customize these pieces to look like old farmhouse style freestanding furniture with upper glass panel doors with mullions and long drawers.

 

3.  A Warm Colour Palette. 

When we think of southern living and farm tables we think warm and welcoming.  So make the colour palette warm – you can still use darker tones but aim for subtle contrast as high contrast in this style of kitchen is a bit harsh. You can still opt for white as well but be sure to add warmth through choice of materials and other accessories, stay away from really high gloss finishes for instance.

4.  Simple Cabinetry. 

Shaker style, bead board details and v-groove give enough detail but stay true to the ‘simpler time’ look.  The farmhouse kitchen is usually a large one so a lot of detail can look too busy in the space. 

 

5.  A functional layout. 

In this style of kitchen, the placement of everything is straightforward so that it all works in harmony.  Even though a kitchen is large you still do not want any wasted space, always consider the work triangle.

 

6.  Symmetry

The cabinets, pendants and counter top configuration from one side of the kitchen to the other need to be as close to exact matches as possible.  Oh course, there will be some different elements (like what is actually on the counter top) but keep size, scale and balance in mind.  The eye is naturally attracted to symmetry, so trust yourself if you feel like something is off balance.

 

7.  Paneled Appliances. 

Remember a ‘simpler time’ is key.  So you can still have multiple (Big family? Consider two dishwashers and two ovens – BTW that’s my dream! ) and/or sized appliances but consider paneling the refrigerator and other appliances like the dishwasher in panels that match the cabinetry – it gives a seamless look in the kitchen

 

8.  Hardwood floors. 

Hardwood in the kitchen is such a warm look, the stain and the natural material brings the farmhouse into the kitchen, the wider the plank the more authentic it will look.  Other great options, if you love the look of natural wood – butcher block counter top on the island or barn beam legs for the island.

 

Remember, if this farmhouse kitchen is just too country or too southern living for you – you can always take elements of the style and make them more modern.  An over sized island with imple cabinetry in bright white or a pop of bright colour and a smooth and uniform caeserstone counter top is fabulous – add that country warmth with your accessories or backsplash even!  You don’t have to go full-country take the pieces that you like and blend the styles together.

The farmhouse kitchen style blends well with a touch of glamour (this adding some sparkle with some simple pendants with crystal detail) but it also works well with an industrial look too (add a reclaimed brick or wood wall and some industrial lighting). You can do a lot with the farmhouse kitchen and not be stuck with an overall country look.

Or, a functional layout and symmetry work for all styles of kitchens.  And customizing odd areas of your home with storage options is always practical.

You can always work with the basics and put your own spin on it!

 

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