KITCHEN DESIGN TIPS

Here are some of our favorite design and organization features for the hardest working room in the house -- the kitchen!.  While we always aim to create stunning, show stopping kitchens, we never overlook smart organization and storage. Some of these features add impact, value, and serious wow-factor while others thoughtfully integrate, high-use features that bring our clients daily joy.

WORKING PANTRY

 Pantries aren’t just for food and non-perishable storage anymore. Modern pantries can have counter tops, extra refrigeration, a prep sink, small appliances, and concealed storage.  The working pantry is a beautiful, indispensable extension of the kitchen. 

LARDER CABINET

 Inspired by the cool-storage larders of the past, today’s larder-style cabinets bring timeless practicality into the modern kitchen. Designed to efficiently house non-perishable foods, small appliances, and kitchen essentials, these versatile storage solutions often double as dedicated baking centres. With customizable interiors tailored to your unique needs, they offer both organization and elegance in one beautifully crafted space.

STATEMENT HOOD FAN

The range/stovetop is an important hub of the kitchen and a natural focal point.  As such, hood fans are an important design element that should reinforce the design style of the kitchen and make a statement.  Where space permits, a cooking alcove is a classic treatment but cladding with paneling, plaster or custom metal can be equally beautiful.

SHALLOW DISPLAY RACK

 A recessed plate/platter niche utilizes unused space between wall studs and adds loads of charm.  At the end of a cabinet, it can be also an efficient and beautiful way to store cutting boards and serving ware.  Rails in wood or metal keep items secure. 

COFFEE BAR

 Although concealed coffee stations are popular, retractable doors are expensive and can be inconvenient for quick access. Our preference is an open coffee bar that becomes a beautiful kitchen feature. 

UNDER THE SINK  

This hard to reach area is often neglected in kitchen design.  A roll-out shelf that is notched to go around the sink’s plumbing keeps cleaning supplies accessible and makes good use of space.

LID STORAGE 

Dedicated lid storage within pot and pan drawers allows pots and pans to be nested and stacked more easily, maximizing the capacity of these drawers.

HIDDEN PAPER TOWEL DISPENSER  

Concealed paper towel storage helps keep counters clutter-free.  Housing it within a small pull-out cabinet ensures that this high-use item pulls out with little effort.

STEP STOOL STORAGE 

More often than not, we design cabinetry that extends all the way to the ceiling—not only for a sleek, seamless look but also to maximize storage. To make those upper cabinets practical, a step stool can be incredibly useful. With a bit of planning, a slim, space-saving step stool can be neatly tucked away yet always within easy reach.

RECYCLING CENTRES 

These have become standard in kitchens for good reason.  The paneled front makes them integrate seamlessly into cabinetry and an interior shelf is a handy place to store extra bags.  

BIFOLD APPLIANCE GARAGE 

A simple bifold door is a great way to create an accessible appliance garage at the end of a cabinet run that does not wrap to the next wall.