Make kitchen stand out in open spaces
Try not to be so matchy-matchy
Dear Debbie: I need help. I am renovating my kitchen, installing new kitchen countertops and backsplash. I don’t know what to match with what. My kitchen, dining room and living room are open concept.
My question is: When picking out my countertop colour, do I match with the kitchen floor or match with the dining-room furniture, which is very dark wood? And do I match the backsplash with the countertop?
Jeanette There should be some connection between the open spaces, but don’t try to match things — I would do the opposite.
Make your kitchen stand out. Light and dark materials abide well together, and often bring out the best in each other.
The important choice in terms of cost and practicality is your countertop. Make your selection according to your lifestyle as well as esthetics. Shown here is a Silestone natural quartz top named Lagoon from their Nebula series.
The clean edge and light colour give a pronounced modern look to the kitchen and brighten the space. (This is a good point to consider if there is no natural light present.)
Silestone by Cosentino, silestone.com, is naturally non-porous and never needs to be sealed. It has a highly scratch, stain and heat-resistant surface, making it a versatile top for preparing food, as well as a stunning desk and buffet top.
Edge options include bullnose, mitred, dove chest and 2x2 eased edge so that you can produce continuity in your overall style.
Have some fun with your backsplash. This is where you can show off a fresh design or colour mix. Ceramic and glass tile will blend with any countertop material.
Since all other surfaces in the kitchen are smooth, here’s an area to add texture. Check out the many varieties and styles online or at your home store.
Your floor is a neutral shade, so it won’t fight with whatever you choose to do. When you are ready for an upgrade, think about linoleum, an excellent product that is soft underfoot, hygienic, and available in modern patterns and shades.
It takes just a few additions to bring in the continuity you are looking for between dining room and kitchen.
Accessorize with a display of colourful crockery, artwork, or an intriguing arrangement of clocks — a clever way to keep track of family or friends who live in different time zones. Dear Debbie: The original fixtures throughout my house were gold coloured, which I really liked and fit the house well.
My property manager has since made repairs and replaced some faucets, light fixtures etc. with chrome or brushed steel.
I am thinking of selling, and I’m perplexed. Should these fixtures all be the same (gold or silver)?
Anon It’s most important that the fittings and fixtures throughout your home are well-maintained. You are on the right track — no need to match up all the finishes.
In fact, today, like in jewelry, it is chic to mix the metal shades. In my bathroom renovation, I am using copper handles along with chrome taps and sink.
Warm, rosy shades of gold, brass and copper are most popular and balance the dazzle and shine of silver or chrome.