With this kitchen upgrade project, the client’s primary goal was to create a more functional, family-friendly space that could accommodate the needs of their large household. At approximately 300 sq. ft., the kitchen truly serves as the heart of the home. With many people often moving through the kitchen at the same time, it was essential to maximize the flow and utility. To achieve this, an open-concept layout was conceived, with a spacious island and a design that would optimize functionality.
Arching details
Opening the wall between the family room and kitchen created a seamless flow and enhanced the aesthetic and functional qualities of the space. Removing this dividing wall now extends the kitchen into the family room, an open-concept layout ideal for a large family, offering a connection between two of the most-used rooms in the house. Adding an arch detail in the wall opening further optimizes the rooms’ character, an architectural touch that subtly elevates the feel and ties in with other arch details found throughout the home. The arch also serves as a visual cue to draw people into the open kitchen. A nod to traditional design, it blends effortlessly with the contemporary elements, creating a timeless, cohesive look.
Feeling blue
A signature element of the design is the soft French blue cabinetry, which adds a distinct contrast to the white oak cabinetry and island base. This colour brings a calm yet sophisticated feel, enhancing the room’s modern appeal, while remaining warm and inviting. Blue hues are subtly seen throughout the home, so there is a sense of cohesion, as each room feels like part of a larger, harmonious unit. The white oak balances the design beautifully, offering warmth and an ideal touch that softens the coolness of the blue. This blend of colours and materials results in a kitchen that is lively and comforting – a place to which the family naturally gravitates.
A hub of activity
One stand-out feature is the large island, a true multi-purpose hub. It serves as a casual dining area, a station for homework, and a gathering spot for socializing with guests. Above the island hang pendant lights with rattan finishes and brass accents.
These add a textured and earthy detail and were thoughtfully scaled to complement the room’s tall, sloped ceilings, which reach up to 15 ft. This architectural detail creates a sense of grandeur, drawing the eye upward to amplify the kitchen’s airy, inviting ambience. The sloped ceiling is an impressive feature that contributes to a sense of openness and the height makes the space seem larger and more dynamic.
The dining area around the island is complemented with plush, textured bar stools that are comfortable and stylish. The neutral tones echo the white and natural wood throughout the space, allowing the blue cabinetry and brass accents to take centre stage. Together, the island, stools, and lighting create a well-rounded, elegant space that is refined and approachable – a perfect balance for a family that values style and function.
On display
Floating shelves positioned between the blue cabinetry offer the perfect opportunity to add character and showcase personal items, while providing a welcome visual break from the solidity of the cabinets. This provides a versatile display area as well as a sense of lightness to the design. The open display also personalizes the kitchen, contributes to the overall aesthetic, and allows the family’s story to be subtly told through these carefully chosen pieces.
A balance of form and function
This renovation was about crafting a kitchen that reflects the family’s lifestyle and taste preferences. The design called for a modern, inviting and functional area that serves as a true gathering place. With every detail carefully considered, from the choice of materials to the lighting and architectural enhancements, the result embodies a balance of style and functionality. It’s a room that invites connection and inspires warmth, a modern yet timeless heart-of-the-home space that’s ready to embrace all the memories yet to come.