How to Design "Tasteful" Kitchens
Delicious kitchens can seamlessly blend in to other living spaces including outdoor rooms. Design, storage solutions for functionality, and finish selections can be determined without undue stress.
I begin with flooring that complements the rest of the home. Then I collaborate with owners to select countertops that they have always dreamed of acquiring. I believe in appreciating stone’s changing patina over time. For example, marble countertops can be polished or honed marble. I prefer polished marble with its glossy beautiful gray streaks! However, it does discolor a bit and can show stains more readily than the honed marble. Other popular countertop choices include quartz, granite, and Caesar Stone. Visiting the tile and stone wholesale locations with a designer helps you visualize, feel, touch, and relish the full impact of the countertops.
Next comes the selection of cabinets and backsplashes! There are so many choices for backsplashes so it is important to select the countertops beforehand. The important part is creating textures with continuity that complement your personal design style. Finally, pay attention to design details, details, details! Think about redesigning the ceiling and favorite paint colors, appliances, hardware, lighting, furniture, and accessories.
Ceiling update in progress –
From boring old popcorn to a scrumptious coiffured ceiling!
I love this picture of my husband and the bead board ceiling in our former
home when we began to renovate our kitchen!
Range hoods (wood are my favorite), and different types of lighting that create an atmosphere for family gathering and eating include ceiling chandeliers, under counter lighting with easy replacement bulbs, task lighting, and ambient lighting.
Limit the number of appliances on the counters…toaster ovens are not a pretty sight! Select updated faucets, family friendly islands, unique cabinetry niches with glass or mirrored inserts, and hardware that appeals to your taste!
Idea for storage solutions for small kitchen and laundry room!
A few final tips... Use multiple materials such as stainless steel, wood (i.e., for beams, range hoods), and copper plus complementary paints (Two – three at the maximum). Create a focus or theme that inspires you to enjoy cooking.
Bon Appetit!
