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Dated Kitchen Makeover

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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 This dark outdated kitchen is a good size as is the dining space, but with the wall dividing them both areas felt cramped and isolated.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

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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.

Thanks for reading!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have a Blue, Blue, Blue Christmas

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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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The Thanksgiving Table

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The holidays are just around the corner, and by around the corner I mean Thanksgiving is this Thursday! Every year I find that autumn and the holidays sneak up on me and I am always rushing around trying to shop, do all the seasonal activities, and of course decorate for each festivity.

Decorating for Halloween and Christmas are pretty straightforward: pumpkins, haystacks, and spooky ornamentation; Christmas trees, Santa’s, and ornaments galore. Even though Thanksgiving is just as celebrated as the rest, I find that it’s the more humble of the holidays—when it comes to decorating. Primarily, the table is the essential focus of the Thanksgiving gathering.

And while the table is the highlight of the holiday, it doesn’t mean you have to come up with a extravagant arrangement. I find that keeping things simple can be just as cozy and elegant, and can be put together on short notice without hurting your wallet.

Keep simple items on hand that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. White dinnerware can be used everyday and for special gatherings. Neutral toned table runners and table clothes are the perfect backdrop for your table. Inexpensive burlap is not only great for a rustic feel, but can also be incorporated in a more elegant table setting. Simple white candles: pillar; tea-light; etc., all add warmth and give you that feeling of cheer we all yearn for during the holidays. Pair these simple items with some evergreen trimmings and small gourds from your local garden center, and your table will feel simply cheerful.

 

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