COOKING UP STYLE

STORY MICHELLE BERWICK
PHOTOGRAPHY LARRY ARNAL

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When designing a functional kitchen, it all starts with creating your list. Lists are the KEY. They allow you to gather your thoughts around kitchen elements you need and desire. Start with your needs. What are your non-negotiables in the space? 

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Be realistic

Start with the key elements like fridge, range, dishwasher then continue down the list to countertops, hardware, plumbing and lighting fixtures. 

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Get in the know

It is great to know what you like but is also super helpful to know what you don't like too. Sourcing specific items will greatly narrow down your time searching. For example, if you know for sure you don't want your counter stools to be backless, you don't even have to entertain that style while on the hunt!

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Work triangle

It's a bit of a thing of the past. You need to find out how YOU move within your space. In general, you want to have your 3 main work areas (fridge, sink, range) close together, but don't forget this is a guideline.  As long as it works for the way you and your family function that's the main thing.

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No kitchen Blues

Be ready to set up a make-shift kitchen for around 8 weeks. A lot of the time people are unaware of the timeline a kitchen renovation will truly take. Plan accordingly and make sure that BBQ is in working order, and your local pizza joint on speed dial.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Make it functional

When our team design kitchens the majority of the cabinets will be drawer style. You are able to access the entire space vs. a full-height door cabinet, where most of the time the upper part of the cabinet is not being used.  Extra unique storage items add into the design like cookie sheets, cutting board pull outs, pull outs to access blind corners, oil and spice pulls out on either side of the cooking areas for optimal function are also great additions.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Lighting

Above all you want to be able to see what you're doing in the kitchen. Especially when you are using a knife or cheese grater... you all know what I'm talking about. We use lots of layered lighting to help illuminate all of the surfaces in our kitchens. General lighting (pot lights), decorative pendants, and under-cabinet lighting is the bare minimum for us. Trust me, you are going to want all three. As well as add in those dimmers.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Seating

A few things will factor in what type of seating you select. Having a back on your counter stool is always nice, more so if you spend lots of time socializing in your kitchen. Sometimes, if there is a bit more of a pinch point (less than 40" between your countertop overhang and on an object like the wall) you may want to go with something backless. A backless stool will take up less space and can tuck all the way under your countertop Don’t even get me started on built in banquette seating... if you have the space and can swing it the answer is a resounding YES every time. 

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Cook Up Style 

We love to leave areas for little stylish moments. Floating shelves are a great area to display those special dishes, plants, and cookbooks. If you don't have space for floaters you can always do a styling against your backsplash area combining cutting boards, cookbook, and decorative items. 

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

The kitchen is the hub of any home. Give good thought to the design and functional aspects required. If you are looking for a sign to do a kitchen reno, THIS IS IT. Do it. Now Is the time to love your kitchen again. 

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

About Michelle Berwick Designs
Award winning Designer Michelle Berwick is the Principal & Creative Founder of Michelle Berwick Design. For almost a decade, this notable GTA firm has become sought-after for providing livable stylish and uniquely personal interiors.

Learn more: michelleberwickdesign.com

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