ALL IN THE details

Designing a fabulous kitchen is about more than simply conceiving the perfect layout or finding the right appliances. What make a cooking space special are the small decorative details. It’s those subtleties that decor unenthusiasts might dub unimportant – such as choosing polished over brushed brass pulls or opting for a square-edged countertop instead of a rounded one – that make all the difference. Here, we focus on thoughtful touches that take this issue’s featured kitchens to the next level. Glass backsplash + high-gloss cabinetry Combining reflective surfaces brightens and visually enlarges a kitchen. This space, devised by designer Shirley Meisels, is a case in point. It’s also a great design trick for spaces with few windows. White + whitewashed-oak-look cabinets White is typically the go-to colour in small kitchens, but I love how designer Veronica Martin brings in visual texture with recessed faux-oak cabinetry without overwhelming the space. Matte black fixtures + coordinating grout I’m a fan of matte black faucets and regret not using them in my own kitchen renovation. The designers behind Qummunicate also had the brilliant idea to use a dark-coloured grout (which coordinates with the taps) to enhance the offset pattern of the tiles. Glass cabinet doors + glossy white tiles This combination is another great way to reflect light to create the illusion of a larger kitchen. It’s also a bonus when you have stylish dishware to display in the cabinets. Marble + wood There’s no better juxtaposition than rustic wood floating shelves paired with an elegant marble chevronpatterned backsplash. Eclecticism at its finest!