Renovation Adds Charm and Grace

Published July 20, 2012

Renovating this character home’s kitchen was all about making a statement in a small space.

With careful planning and the use of warm bold colours Barb and Kirby Kinnon were able to achieve a stylish kitchen suitable for entertaining and everyday living.

Besides offering a crisp new look, the remodeling of this kitchen added efficiency and brought in a great deal of natural light.

It was important that the design be flexible and family-friendly, one that was easily accommodating for an intimate dinner party or a large family gathering.

“Kirby and I bought the house four years ago and at that time felt the house was comfortable but that one day we would want to update the kitchen and bathroom on the main floor. We wanted the kitchen to be a place where we could be content and relaxed”, Barb remarked.

One of the main goals of the renovation was to open up the existing space and let as much light in as possible. After careful planning of various details the walls were stripped and the room was gutted.

Bob Hutton of Barclay Construction was brought on board to spearhead the project. ” We were given Bob’s name from a relative who was familiar with his work. I heard he was a perfectionist and that was all I needed to hear for I felt confident he had a high standard of perfection”, Barb added.

A wall was removed between the dining room and the kitchen to provide a feeling of openness and room for the family to entertain formally or informally.

Beautiful antique pine and black cabinets were installed by GTW Kitchens and complemented by a countertop of khaki 4 x 4 tiles from World Mosaic Tile. The kitchen’s centerpiece is a substantial island with custom cabinetry that provides plenty of space to pull up a stool for an impromptu meal.

Other details included a stylish armoire finished in the cabinetry stain and outfitted with oversized baskets for easy storage.

The whole look is pulled together with an old-world slate floor that is not only efficient but complements the cabinetry and countertops beautifully.

The appliances were chosen from the Kitchen Aid “Pro Line” family. “We loved the new “fingerprint resistant” stainless finish that Kitchen Aid offered. We were able to install a large fridge and freezer and an oven that sits conveniently in the island “, said Barb.

One of the  highlights of the kitchen renovation is the newly installed windows. The wood windows, by Loewen, were optimally positioned for light but add a unique old-world prospective to the kitchen.

All experts agree that timeless interiors are eminently livable and comfortable. The kitchen should feel very inviting and encourage family and guests to linger. This is a feeling that is clearly captured in this renovation.

In the end, the homeowners feel they have effectively overhauled the kitchen both stylistically and functionally. Barb and Kirby have created a sense of warmth and charm and the small but efficient kitchen is rustic in style and is beautifully adorned with authentic old-fashioned touches.