In small kitchens, every decision counts. Get it right, and the result feels bigger, brighter and undeniably personal. That was the vision behind this renovation: A space where smart storage meets a mid-century-modern sensibility, layered with the homeowner’s love of greenery and bold colour.
“It was about packing as much function and personality into every inch as possible,” says designer Tamara Robbins Griffith of Kerr + Field Interiors. Although the footprint of the kitchen remains largely the same, strategic upgrades unlocked hidden potential. The design team raised the height of the cabinetry to take advantage of vertical space and extended the fridge wall to include cupboards where a freestanding unit once sat. “It was all about maximizing what we had to work with.”
Visually, the objective was to reduce clutter and allow the homeowner’s unique style to shine. Carefully considered sightlines and the removal of some bulkheads helped keep the space feeling open and intentional. “We wanted to give her room to show off her love of accessories and plants without overwhelming the space.”
Mid-century references shaped the look, though never in a literal way. “It’s all about the mix,” Robbins Griffith explains. Vintage cues were balanced with sleek cabinetry, a contemporary faucet and hand-made ceramic backsplash tile, resulting in a kitchen that feels curated rather than themed.
A stand-out element in the space is the use of walnut wood — a choice that adds warmth and sophistication. The designer started with the condo’s existing flooring, a rich medium brown tone that set the stage. From there, they layered in a slightly darker cabinetry finish and walnut display cubbies for visual continuity. “We’re careful when mixing wood tones,” notes Robbins Griffith. “The goal is always to create harmony, not competition.”
Colour is another key tool used to infuse the space with personality. With plenty of natural light and a collection of thriving houseplants, dark green teal lower cabinets felt like a natural extension of the homeowner’s world. “She had a coral velvet sofa she loved, and once we knew that was staying, the dark green teal was an easy decision,” says Robbins Griffith. The rest of the palette followed: Soft greys, creamy whites, black and brass accents and a hint of blue in the handmade backsplash.
As an avid baker, the homeowner needed a kitchen that supported her passion. The old double-height countertop was replaced with a single-level peninsula and counter-height stools, making it easier to roll out dough and prep for long baking sessions. A large undermount sink replaced the builder-basic two-basin model, and thoughtful storage was added for baking tools, including a convenient space for her stand mixer.
Ultimately, the renovation was about more than just updating finishes – it was about creating a home that felt personal. “She had lived with builder-basic for a long time,” Robbins Griffith says. “This was her moment to finally express who she is, and the result is a space that’s beautiful and uniquely hers.”