Kitchens are a reflection of personal style. Just as you add new pieces to your wardrobe when the seasons change, kitchen updates keep spaces fresh and current. The following three tips, inspired by fall/winter interior design trends from design duo Blazys Gerard, offer splurge versus save ideas to bring a unique flair to your kitchen and entertaining space.
Go glam
Splurge: Streamline your layout to evoke a sleek and sophisticated vibe. Integrating built-in appliances, such as a Jenn-Air 30-inch single wall oven in Floating White Glass, adds polish and maximizes under-counter space. For entertainers, an open-concept living space with an oversized island creates a central hub at parties. The addition of an under-counter beverage centre is always a hit with guests and wine lovers alike. For texture and elegant contrast, select a high-gloss stone countertop and dark-stained floors.
Save: Backsplashes are a blank canvas and offer the opportunity to create a big impact. Whether you embellish the space with mosaic tile, glass or even stylish marble, a show stopping backsplash creates a feature wall that is as beautiful as it is functional. Another option is to install a statement light fixture, whether architectural or ornate, to shine new light onto the space.
Turn up the heat
Splurge: Take inspiration from a modern gastropub and incorporate a fireplace into your kitchen. While this is a significant design commitment, a fireplace is a modern addition to the kitchen and unites living spaces, particularly in open concept homes. Richly stained cabinets exude further warmth and provide a restaurant-at-home feel. Keep the lines of the cabinets and countertops slick and you'll have a contemporary, eclectic space.
Save: If you live in a condo where the addition of a fireplace isn't an option, bring in warmth through accessories. Cookbooks, cozy throw pillows and banquette seating will soften the space and create a relaxed atmosphere. A vintage settee in place of two chairs at the table is another way to add a touch of luxury and comfort.
Add rustic charm
Splurge: Create a chic space with rustic touches: butcherblock countertops, a reclaimed wood dining table and wide wood plank floors. Clean cabinetry with built-in stainless steel appliances provide the ultimate base and maintain the focus on your overall design.
Save: Adore the look of a built-in fridge but not ready to splurge? Jenn-Air offers cabinet depth refrigerators that appear built-in and are mounted flush with the cabinets; custom overlay panels can even be added to further blend with surrounding cabinetry. Bring in additional rustic elements through thoughtful accessories: a reclaimed wood plank is a beautiful table runner, especially when stained to complement your kitchen, and a vintage milk jug doubles as a statement vase.
As a final tip (and the quickest and most simple of all), stop by your local farmers' market or flower shop because fresh blooms add visual interest and bring instant life to any space.
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