3. Artful & Airy
“JUST LIKE THE WALLS OF AN ART GALLERY, IT’S THE DETAILS YOU ADD THAT MAKE WHITE KITCHENS INTERESTING” — Stephanie Houghton
THE BACKSTORY: It’s hard to believe that designer Stephanie Houghton’s 154-square-foot kitchen — with its stylish and soulful attitude — was once an ’80s box lacking warmth. Tackling the sterile vibe was simple: she gutted the space, installed custom cabinets and replaced the old island with a work table. Adding personality was trickier. “I wanted to create some areas that could be used for vignettes,” says Stephanie, who co-owns Emily Griffin Design. So in one wall of built-ins, which disguises the pantry and refrigerator, she carved out a nook for pretty things. She also made room for art by forgoing some upper cabinets. Now Stephanie’s collections are on permanent display, from a Frida Kahlo– inspired piece of art to a pair of woven bird’s nest baskets on the wall. Judicious hits of wood, including the brass-wheeled table and counter stools, warm up the space. When she isn’t expecting company, the recessed bar is a spot for colourful blooms. “I fill my beautiful vase with fresh flowers and enjoy them every day,” she says.