Anyone who has recently followed the news is likely aware of the fact that despite rising interest rates, homes are still selling at historic highs because many homeowners are choosing to make the most of their property. Whether you’re looking to sell your home fast or are looking to make your space more enjoyable for the foreseeable future, here are some kitchen design trends to consider in 2023.
Things that matter most to buyers
When buyers are shopping for a home, they often give preference to properties that are move-in ready. The last thing they want is to have to tackle large projects after moving in. With those points in mind, the kitchen upgrades most recommended by real estate agents include creating an open-concept kitchen with a family room (57% of surveyed agents), a kitchen island (52% of surveyed agents), and stainless steel appliances (44% of surveyed agents).
Energy-saving appliances also are top of mind for homeowners as they’ve surged in popularity over the past few years. In 2022, 48% of real estate agents reported that homeowners were prioritizing energy efficiency features in their property to save on utility bills.
While the earlier trends require noticale amounts of work to implement, there are a few trends you can embrace that are much more manageable. For example, smart appliances, eye-catching or designer backsplashes, and under-cabinet lighting are noted by real estate agents as being attractive to buyers.
Upgrading your color palette
Choosing the right color for your home is one of the most important things you can do to create a great atmosphere for your space, and also make your home more attractive to traditional buyers. You may have heard that homebuyers prefer bold colors that pop, however, 84% of real estate agents report buyers still prefer to see light and white color schemes in the kitchen.
If you’re not sure how to choose a color scheme for your kitchen, keep the following information in mind. The top three design elements that agents believe make buyers excited are light or calming color schemes, a white color scheme, and mixed materials – all coming in at 43%, 41%, and 30% respectively.
Other color combinations worth considering include grey or greige palettes, earthy tones, light wood, black or matte black, and deep or bold colors.
Embrace a more modern cabinet design
Cabinets are a core component of any kitchen because they take up the most visual space in the room. One of the hottest kitchen cabinet trends today is the two-toned look. This means choosing two complementary colors and/or textures for similar areas such as upper and lower cabinets or cabinets and kitchen island. Colored and textured cabinets frequently add interest to kitchens because they liven up the space and make it feel unique.
Another notable trend is homeowners moving towards fewer cabinets with more open shelving in their space, or leveraging alternative storage units. This aligns with the overall trend of making properties more welcoming with open wall space and shelving, and larger windows throughout homes.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, orcolorful interiors to make your storage spaces as dazzling as they are practical.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 orlaminate 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.
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.
Accessorizeyour 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.
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.
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,
The kitchen is the heart of the home and whether you are a gourmet or not, you want your kitchen to look stunning! If a kitchen renovation is on your to-do list, take note of the hot kitchen design trends for 2017.
Grey in the Kitchen:
Although white is still a top choice for homeowners, grey is a close (very close 2nd). We started seeing this trend about 3 years ago in the trade shows but now the grey kitchen cabinet is much more mainstream. If you are a bit hesitant, opt for a soft and warm grey tone for the kitchen cabinets. It’s still timeless and neutral but it’s a great alternative to white.
Farmhouse kitchen sink:
Also known as an apron sink. This sink style has been around for a long time but it has really gained popularity with the whole revival of the ‘farmhouse look’ trend. This style of sink comes in all sizes and configurations (single bowl, double bowl…) but it comes in other colours and materials. Plus you don’t have to necessarily have the farmhouse look in your kitchen – you can have a clean contemporary style or an industrial style kitchen – it is a very transitional sink.
Tuxedo kitchen:
We are seeing a lot of tuxedo kitchens in 2017. Not familiar with this term? A tuxedo kitchen is a kitchen with dark lower cabinets and kitchen island cabinets (in a black like a tuxedo but we are seeing lots of variations like navy, dark stained wood and charcoal grey) and white upper cabinets. This adds some visual interest to a kitchen and in our opinion looks best in larger kitchens.
Bold Kitchen Light Fixtures:
Statement lighting is everywhere and we mean in every room in the house and the kitchen is no exception. We are seeing lots of larger and more interesting light fixtures in the kitchen – over the island, the eat-in area and in the kitchen itself. There are so many styles of lighting – so there is something for everyone! Get creative with colour, size and shape – we love this classic lantern pendant in pink and gold – so unique!
Mixing kitchen counter tops:
We are seeing clients get more and more adventurous when it comes to making selections in the kitchen. It can be tough to narrow down your selections – so don’t! Opt to have 2 different counter tops in your kitchen – 2 different stones, a stone one and concrete one, a stone and wood one….the combinations are endless. This is a great way to really make your personality shine in your kitchen!
Navy in the kitchen:
Navy in the kitchen right now is where grey was about 3-4 years ago – just emerging – but we are seeing it more and more in magazines and TV shows, so it is only a matter of time until the navy kitchen is the new grey kitchen! We love it mixed with brass or gold hardware (which is also starting to catch on). A navy kitchen looks incredible with just a simple shaker style door – because the colour is so deep and rich you really don’t need a lot of detail.
Interesting Kitchen Backsplash:
For a while it was all about the glass tile mosaic back splash and then more recently the subway tile but now we are seeing all different shapes and colours – even patterned tiles! We are definitely seeing people take more ‘risks’ this year when it comes to tile. Whether it is a herringbone layout, a hexagon shape or a pattern tile – back splashes are a lot more interesting this year! (We are seeing this trend in bathrooms, too)
“I’m moving into a house this fall and we have a kitchen island. I’m excited to have seating at the island. I’ve never purchased stools before what should I be looking for?”
First off – Congrats on the move! How exciting!!
A kitchen island is definitely something to be excited about – they offer so much extra kitchen space in terms of prepping, serving or just hanging out. We love kitchen islands!
When it comes to seating at your island the first thing you need to be 100% aware of is the height of the island. Is it bar height? Is it counter height? Or is the (seating space) table height? This is the number 1 thing you need to know before making any purchase.
For a bar height:
(This is usually described as a breakfast bar, usually there is a part of the island that is raised. sometimes we see a raised portion on a kitchen peninsula). A 30-inch stool is the perfect height for a standard 42-inch bar or counter top but anywhere between 28″ and 33″ will work . Bar-height stools are also ideal for a work space, like the garage. These are the same size stools you see in a restaurant or bar and are taller than the average dining chair. Ideal for standard built-in bars. Not ideal for small children
For counter height:
This is an island that is the same height as the rest of your counter tops. These stools are the ideal height for a 36-inch counter or to have on their own for extra seating. Counter-height bar stools are smaller than the typical stool you see in restaurant or bar, but are a great addition to your home bar or kitchen space, they range in height from 24″ to 27″. Popular option for kitchen islands and easy to use for most people
For table height:
(We see this a lot in condos) the island usually has a portion of the island that is counter height and then a portion that dips down to table height. This is in lieu of a kitchen or dining table. Table-height stools are shorter than counter or bar stools and can be a good alternative to chairs at a dining table or breakfast nook. Generally between 16 and 23 inches tall. Offers a casual look; often without backs. Great choice for small children and kids’ seating
*this is an example of the kitchen island counter top with only a slight over hang – this would not be the main eating space but perfect for hanging out while watch the host cook.
Other measurements to consider when choosing a bar stool are the spaces between each stool as well as between the stool and the surface height.
For stool spacing…
look to have about 26 to 30 inches measured from the center of one stool to the center of the stool next to it. This allows for optimal space for eating, working, and socializing. For leg spacing, account for 9 to 12 inches between the stool seat and the underside of your counter top or bar surface. We suggest a counter top over hang of 15″-18″ if this is going to be a main eating area.
When it comes to style…
the possibilities are truly endless but take a few things into consideration. If this is a main seating/dining area – mid to full backs are a comfortable option. If your are tight on space look for options that are sleeker and not bulky, backless stools tuck under counter top over hangs really nicely. If you have room for lots of seating but don’t really have a lot of guests over, try mixing styles – that way you have the supportive comfort but also some spare seating when you need it and your kitchen won’t look or feel cramped.
This image is a great example of mixing stool styles. The full back upholstered stools are comfortable and perfect for everyday use. The backless adjustable cowhide stools add some extra seating when needed.
I hope these measurements help you find the proper stools for your kitchen island…use this as a guide and pick a style that suits you, the possibilities are endless!
The kitchen island is almost an essential part of a kitchen these days. We see them in kitchens of all sizes and styles. They are so practical plus we love they way they look – they offer us storage options, serving and prepping space and even a dining area.
Here are some of our favourite kitchen islands:
We love any over sized kitchen island – it is perfect for anyone who loves to cook and entertain. This is also a beautiful piece in this kitchen. Look at the seating for 4 and those lantern pendants really make this island look and feel like a dining space. The sink makes this island a great working area too. We love the storage and the serving space this island offers. This is a perfect addition to a dream kitchen!
Pot and pan drawers are a must in your kitchen island. Look at all of this storage! This oversized island is almost a complete kitchen it’s self. Storage for days, prep space, cooking space a sink and so much more.
Just because something serves a purpose doesn’t mean it can’t also look good! We love a pop of colour so why not add one to your kitchen? When your kitchen island is in a different stain or paint colour it really looks custom and it looks like a piece of furniture. This island offers so much closed storage but it’s a great hang out with 2 stools at the end plus it’s just perfect for serving an prepping look at the over sized flat surface.
Looking to make a statement with your kitchen island? Think about going ‘live edge’. This live-edge walnut kitchen island counter top is a show stopper! It adds an organic element to this sleek and streamlined modern kitchen. We love the wood grain and knots – so much character and uniqueness.
We love a butcher block kitchen island but how cute is this dog bowl feature? If you have dogs at home incorporate them into your decor and design. These stainless steel bowls can be removed for easy cleaning but when in place they are out of the way with no risk of being knocked over and making a mess.
We love the rustic look of this farmhouse kitchen island. The grey stain softens the look of the wood plus it works with the veining in the marble back splash. The open shelving is very convenient when plating and we like the look of these clean, smooth white dishes (and white cabinets) with the rustic wood grain – we love the mix of textures. This island has so much character!
We love this ‘beverage station’ in this kitchen island – it’s perfect if you love to entertain! A wine rack, ice maker and beer/soda fridge in the island is such a great idea! Easy access and it won’t take up space in your main fridge. With it tucked away in the island it won’t take away from the beauty of your kitchen.
We don’t see this often – but we love it! A round kitchen island : this is perfect for a smaller kitchen -the circular shape really softens up the look in a kitchen and appears to not take up as much space; a circular shape offers great flow (that’s why a circular table is often a great choice for a small space). This still has great storage a surface space. We also love the soft tones in this kitchen – the cream, taupe and wood – timeless with a bit of a country feel.
This island has it all – seating, storage, open shelving, surface space and a stove top. this modern sleek look kitchen island offers so much for this kitchen design. We love the mix of black, wood and grey waterfall quartz counter top. The pendant lighting is beautiful and we love how the hood fan is built in so it doesn’t visually block in the kitchen and obstruct the view.
Take some inspiration from this kitchen with a commercial restaurant design. This T-shaped island is perfect for parties – so much space for prepping, serving and let your guests watch while you create! the mix of stainless steel and wood grain is a great balance of modern and organic, warm and cool. So clean and streamlined in every way.
