Tackling a kitchen project: Part 1

Tackling a kitchen project can be not only time consuming but out right SCARY!. There are so many things that need to be taken into consideration. Style, storage, counter tops, backsplash, but the confusion can be minimized with a well thought out plan of execution and can make the experience an enjoyable one.

Planning is the first step to any successful project from the initial layout to selecting finishes and budgeting through to installation.

The Layout

The layout is the most important step in the process of planning your kitchen, an efficient kitchen ensures that everything is right at our finger tips when you need it. Your lifestyle plays a huge roll in how your kitchen should be organized, do you use a lot of spices, do you have trouble bending down or reaching up, are you extremely organized or just the complete opposite, these factors all play a roll and will determine the layout and accessories that best suit your needs. These simple factors are often overlooked as most people put more effort into the aesthetics or the final appearance, but if you take the time to brainstorm how you use your kitchen on a daily basis the end results are much greater.

Below is an example of a plan completed for a client, we designed a pullout spice rack beside the range for quick access when cooking, incorporated lazy susan trays in the corner cabinets for the best efficiency and used a deep pantry cabinet with pullout towers to maximize the storage. This client also wanted a small communications area, where they could pay bills and use a laptop, so we designed a small desk with a filing system for easy access of files. The sink, range and refrigerator are in good proximity of each other creating an efficient working triangle.

A well designed kitchen layout is essential to having an efficient kitchen that works for your lifestyle.

Top 3 areas to spend your renovating budget.

Fall is fast approaching but there is still time to get your renovations completed before the holiday season. Take a look at where you should spend your renovating budget to get the best bang for your buck.

1. Kitchen: The kitchen is the center of many homes and when deciding to remodel or update, ensure the changes work for your lifestyle. Plan your kitchen out in major zones, for example: food-prep zone, cooking zone, storage zone, etc. The time you take to thoroughly plan the use of your kitchen the more time and steps it will save you in the end. If you have the budget go the custom kitchen route which will allow you to customize just about anything from cabinet sizes and heights, to finishes and endless storage and accessory options all at a reasonable cost. For the contemporary minimalistic look, use a slab door available in many styles and finishes, add a simple quartz or granite countertop and finish off the look with glass backsplash, stainless steel appliances and fixtures. For the Modern Kitchen and for a warmer look opt for a shaker style door, flat panel door or even a simple raised panel. Select a granite countertop that compliments the cabinets and use a mixture of marble, stone and glass tile as your backslash. Lastly, don't skimp on the lighting use a combination of ambient light, task and accent lighting as it improves your kitchens function and its looks. 2. Entry/ Foyer: First impressions are the ones that count and the foyer is one area that often gets neglected. Simple updates could have your guests singing praises when they first enter your home. Start by replacing the entrance door or add a sidelight or glass transom where feasible, which will allow a constant stream of light to enter your home or opt to paint your existing door a bold colour and don't stop on the exterior side continue the colour through to the interior side as well. Often underestimated lighting can dramatically change the look and feel of your entrance. Install a statement light fixture, whether it be a chandelier, pendant or surface mounted fixture which will not only give you the ambient lighting needed during the evening hours but will also add to the overall feel. Replace the flooring if possible and incorporate a detailed floor inlay or spread a graphic rug or runner to define the entrance. Lastly, some good old fashioned paint, select a light neutral colour to keep the space bright and welcoming. 3. Powder Room: Like the foyer the powder room is another area that gets left to the list of things to do but should be on the top of your list. The powder room is a place for your guests and it should be better than average. Create a calming oasis by maintaining a neutral colour pallet and incorporating natural and organic elements such as wood, cork and stone for a modern and nature inspired feel. Keep the fixtures white for a crisp, clean look and coordinate your faucet and lighting finishes. Chrome and stainless steel accents are always popular but brass is also making a comeback and looks stunning when paired with modern elements. Create drama when designing your lighting plan and incorporate different sources of light. Install wall sconces at either side of a large mirror in addition to the central ceiling fixture and put it on a dimmer switch to create a sultry evening mood when entertaining. Allow for recessed potlights to illuminate a piece of artwork, or a beautiful sink basin which will create another layer of lighting and add to the visual interest within the space. This is a generally a small space so don't be afraid to have fun with it but keep it simple and cohesive.

6000 Pencils become trade show booth merchandising display

We were recently asked to design a trade show booth for an organization called Faces of Fair Trade, they are group of socially conscious individuals who support low income artisans around the world by purchasing and selling their handmade crafts here in Toronto.

Spring 2011 Toronto Gift Show

The concept for this booth was to create a design that reinforced handmade, natural and organic materials while displaying the products in a modern light . The wall was made up of 6000 natural wood coloured pencils individually placed into pegboard (commonly used in retail applications). The pencils act as shelving to support the product.

I came up with the idea after walking through the aisles of the home improvement store looking for ways I could repurpose different types of building materials.

Spring 2011 Toronto Gift Show

The end product is organic, functional and artistic and modern.

Who says walls are only for picture frames?

How cool are these? These are a great way to add some interest to your walls in your tiny apartments or spaces that have limited closets space. Who says walls are only for picture frames?

Loyal Loot Collective, is based in Edmonton Alberta and involves the individual and collaborative work of Boha Chebib, Carmin Douville, Dara Humniski and Anna Thomas. They have a great collection of home accessories that are meant to be treasured over time. www.loyalloot.com.....Absolutely love it!!!

Interior Design Show- IDS11

I hope you all have you calendars marked....January 27-30, 2011 is the date of this years Interior Design Show in Toronto and it is quickly approaching. With less than 2 weeks left, these are a few of the feature exhibits I'm super excited to see:

Countering Convention

Photo Credit: Luxury Insider

Dupont Corian, invited 7 innovative design studios including Cecconi Simone and Rhed to rethink the use of Corian the traditionally used counter top material. Visit the exhibit to see what these innovators have come up with.

Design within Reach Lounge

Photo Credit: www.designwithinreach.com

A Spectacular collection of indoor and outdoor modern furniture, from iconic mid-century pieces to items designed today.

Photo Credit: www.interiordesignshow.com

This should very very interesting!!! Canada's Most talented Siblings join forces to design a space....TOGETHER!

This exhibit includes well-known designer Sarah Richardson and brother Theo Richardson, My and Thien Ta-Trung, Jason and Lars Dressler and Glenn and David Dixon.