Entries in kitchen (572)
Sun, 27 Jul 2008
Barn conversion inspiration
Penny wrote us recently with what I'd have to say is the toughest request yet: "In the next few months, I am going to begin renovating a big barn on my property in France to turn into a "great room" (kitchen/living room). I have been trying to collect photos from magazines with modern kitchens/living rooms in renovated barns, but I have only come across a few. Do you have any such photos that you could post on your blog?" The simplest answer to Penny's question is no. But what I did find are photos of lofty spaces that are multi-purpose, that might help with ideas on layout. Penny - are you ever lucky! A barn conversion would be a blast! Hope this helps get your creative juices flowing.
And now a word from our new sponsor
I could use a green tea right about now (it was a very VERY long day), and considering the state of my kitchen, I could also REALLY use some cabinets from Greentea Design. It's a Toronto based Asian furniture retailer with a large selection of contemporary and antique pieces and a strong commitment to the environment. They've been around for over ten years, and judging by the products featured on their website, I'd say they'll be around for many more. Not only do they carry kitchen cabinetry, but living room, dining room and bedroom furniture as well. Gorgeous!!! (Thanks Michael!)
 |  |
 |  |
 |  |
Kitchen island or harvest table?
Angie wrote in yesterday looking for some inspiration for her kitchen reno:
"I am going to be renovating my 112 yr old home soon. Though the home, itself, is very traditional (10 ft ceilings, gorgeous casings and moldings, wood floors throughout) my personal tastes and decor tend toward a bit more modern. Problem: I am torn between the practicality, functionality and look of a large center island (I just love a dark brown island topped with narrow black and white marble). On the other hand, we lived in Europe for a while and I cannot get the images of old farm tables in the kitchens (surrounded by wooden and upholstered chairs) out of my head. I realize that there are advantages to both. However, I rarely see kitchens with an old farm table (in lieu of an island) in magazines these days. I know what I am getting if I go with the island, but would love to see images of old farm tables in modern kitchens. Help! And thanks!!!" I wrote back to tell her how much I ADORE a harvest table paired with modern chairs, which she loves too. I found some photos of both harvest(somewhat) tables in modern(ish) kitchens and some dark wood islands - but which to choose???!!!
Kitchen island lighting
Jo posted some bathroom inspiration earlier today and now it's time for kitchens. Heather wrote us recently looking for help with kitchen lighting:
"Kitchens are king. They are the both the heart of the house and give it soul. I am renovating a 110 year old townhouse in New York City and my future kitchen will have a center island, as most American kitchens have these days. I am stuck for lighting over the island. I have seen a million beautiful fixtures, antiques, industrial, and modern styled in addition to recessed (yuck); usually there are two or three pieces over the island lighting the area for eating or preparing food. I believe antique lighting over an island is current decor but I am interested in what is next so that my kitchen looks different but classic. Perhaps there is a throw back idea I have not seen. What are the other options for lighting this area? What do other countries do for lighting in the kitchen? Maybe something like lamp lighting. I don't know, I just wonder what options are out there." I personally LOVE vintage pendants over an island but there are many options. I'm not sure how feasible a lamp is, because they don't direct light right onto the work surface like most pendants do. Chandeliers seem to be gaining in popularity, for some extra sparkle and glamour. Here are some photos to inspire Heather and anyone else looking for kitchen island lighting.
