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Dated Kitchen Makeover

The kitchen is said to be the heart of the home, where family and friends gather to eat, drink, and spend quality time together. So naturally when it comes time for a remodeling project, a kitchen update is at the top of the list.

Personal style is a huge factor when it comes to renovating any room, but in designing a new kitchen, function is key. This dark outdated kitchen is a good size as is the dining space, but with the wall dividing them both areas felt cramped and isolated.

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

To make the most of the space, we took out the wall between the two rooms to create an open floor plan. This allowed the natural light from the sliding glass door to  brighten up the entire space along with the addition of triple pane windows over the kitchen sink.

 

 

Adding classic white shaker cabinets, subway tile, neutral granite counters, and hardwood floors transformed a dark kitchen into a bright and airy space.

 

 

The peninsula really maximized function by adding additional storage, and creating a large prep area and counter seating.

 

 

Lastly, we added a dining banquette to carry the cabinetry look into the dining space. Now the dining table isn’t directly in front of the slider allowing for easier access to the back deck. So, as everyone gravitates to the kitchen, as they do, there’s plenty of room for a cook or two, as well as for gathering.

Before                                                                               After

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Light Up Your Life

The coming of a New Year brings the desire for change of some sort in our homes. But change doesn’t always have to be a lofty or expensive one. Many of us simply don’t have the time or money to take on a large project, but small updates can make a dramatic change to that room that needs a little sprucing up. A great way to add more character, or give your room that needed update is with new lighting fixtures.

Changing your lighting fixture can help you achieve a completely new look for the space. Using fixtures that incorporate rope and various metals will give a nautical vibe to the space.

 

 

These pendant lights can also create a rustic charm if that’s more your style.

A popular trend and easily attainable look is farmhouse design. White kitchens accented with contrasting black fixtures, like an industrial style bowl pendant perfects the look. If the stark black and white contrast isn’t your thing, choose other painted colors or metal finishes of your liking.

This bowl pendant from wayfair has the perfect farmhouse look.

 

 

If your taste is more transitional, lighting fixtures with clean lines and sleek profiles will work great in your space. Drum pendants work well in many areas from foyers, bedrooms, living and dining areas.

This drum light from Restoration Hardware  would fit anywhere with its clean lines, and round profile.

 

 

The best part about updating your lighting fixtures is that is doesn’t have to break the bank.  You can find beautiful fixtures at every price point. It might be just what you need to see your room in a new light.

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Have a Blue, Blue, Blue Christmas

According to surveys, when asked our favorite color, 44% of us say blue. I personally suspect that percentage is much higher based on my clients’ requests. I honestly can’t tell you the last time blue was not the first color mentioned when asked color preferences for a new design project.

Ok, maybe gray was named first, but you know what I mean!

So, for those of us that already live in homes filled with our favorite color, why not make holiday decorating simple and easy, and stick with the color we love. Wrapping presents in navy paper and ribbons while adding touches of gold, silver and white looks festive and beautiful under the Christmas tree.

 

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These are a Few of My Favorite Things

Year after year I try to come up with fresh gift ideas for my friends and family. This year, instead of worrying about finding the right size, or in lieu of those gift cards we find ourselves reverting back to every holiday season, check out some of these very special homey items on my favorite things list. You just might find inspiration while searching for the perfect gift for the ones on your shopping list.

1. The Everyday Co.’s  24” Navy Windowpane Pillow/Mama

What’s great about this oversized pillow is that its windowpane pattern can fit in many different spaces. Its denim chambray cotton outside and down feather insert makes it the perfect pillow for lounging. As a bonus, it comes in different sizes. Visit The Everyday Co.’s Holiday Pop-Up-Shop at 19 Drydock Ave. Boston, and/or their studio. See their website for hours.

Find it here: http://www.theeverydaynapkin.co/throw-pillows/navy-windowpane-linen-mama#more-info

2. Jill Rosenwald’s Sprout Water Pitcher

Part of Jill Rosenwald’s Field Notes collection— these pitchers are a real eye catcher and a great accent piece for any table. Hand-made to order here in Boston, and it comes in endless colors!

Find it here: https://www.jillrosenwald.com/collections/round-hill/products/sprout-water-pitcher

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