This early 90’s kitchen was in need of a drastic update. There was not enough storage for these clients and the finishes were beginning to show their age. Although we didn’t change the locations of the sink or stove, we did extend the cabinets in the fridge are closer to the breakfast room area to create more storage.
To achieve this, we changed the central table to a banquette that only takes up space on one side of the room. So, why does this kitchen look so drastically different in the after photos than it did in the before photos? It’s all in the details.
This kitchen had dark accents before, which made the space feel gloomy and small. The black appliances were updated to stainless steel. The wood cabinets were replaced with fresh, off-white ones. Needless to say, changing the backsplash from the black, ceramic tile to a classic, white and grey basket weave provided instant appeal. The plastic laminate counters were changed to hardwearing quartz composite in a Carrera-like colour scheme.
The generous ceiling heights made it possible to add a second row of upper cabinets, providing more storage and visual display. We accented all glass cabinets by painting the interiors in a pale grey colour, tying in the grey veining in the countertops, backsplash and the floors.
I created a beverage center for these clients to house their bar fridge and to store their glassware. This is placed between the fridge and wall oven so that it doubles as a place to put down hot items from the oven or multiple items from the fridge. A pot filler over the stove adds glamour and convenience in the cooking area. A touchless faucet over the sink is an added convenience and a conversation starter.
Lighting makes the most impact in this space. This kitchen previously had only a central light, which created shadows in the corners. Adding enough pot lights to illuminate all areas helps to highlight the beautiful finishes and make all areas bright and cheerful. Under cabinet lighting not only illuminates the task areas but also makes the backsplash sparkle. A central light over the kitchen table provides a focal point and adds glamour.
Cut out kick panels takes the heaviness away from the base cabinets and provides some subtle detailing. Decorative pilasters were added at the ends of the base cabinets, and new hardware was selected that was in better proportion to the cabinetry (the previous ones were too small). We chose to have a different handle on the drawers than on the doors, again to create some visual interest and detailing.
The combination of these details provides sophistication, sparkle and style to a previously bland kitchen.
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