The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

This 1938 South Minneapolis Tudor was ready for a Kitchen remodel that not only improved the aesthetics, but also the function. Luckily, the home was asking for a larger kitchen. By removing what was originally a breakfast room or informal dining, we were able to expand the kitchen for new potential. A new archway was designed to open the new kitchen to the formal dining and living room. We had a small list of “must haves” including a large pantry wall, double oven, and custom bench seating. All new custom cabinetry was designed with practical storage including a lazy susan corner, trash/recycle pull-out, sink tip-out, full extension drawers, shelf pull-outs, silverware organizers, tray tip-up, pocket door appliance garage, a space in the pantry for their vacuum, and a messaging corner. To complement the homes dark woodwork and stone front facade, new porcelain slate tile floors, rich cherry stained cabinets, and natural slate tile backsplash were paired with a neutral Cambria quartz countertop. Fun details were included across the room including a new Kohler cast iron sink, Delta Touch-less faucet, pewter knobs and pulls, bronze lighting, and a rich wall color by Benjamin Moore. The homeowner’s couldn’t be happier and are enjoying the new kitchen with family and friends.

Designer: Emily Blonigen Home Style: Tudor Design Style: Traditional Project Completion Date: November 2016 This 1938 South Minneapolis Tudor was ready for a Kitchen remodel that not only improved the aesthetics, but also the function. Luckily, the home was asking for a larger kitchen. By removing what was originally a breakfast room or informal dining, we were able to expand the kitchen for new potential. A new archway was designed to open the new kitchen to the formal dining and living room. We had a small list of “must haves” including a large pantry wall, double oven, and custom bench seating. All new custom cabinetry was designed with practical storage including a lazy susan corner, trash/recycle pull-out, sink tip-out, full extension drawers, shelf pull-outs, silverware organizers, tray tip-up, pocket door appliance garage, a space in the pantry for their vacuum, and a messaging corner. To complement the homes dark woodwork and stone front facade, new porcelain slate tile floors, rich cherry stained cabinets, and natural slate tile backsplash were paired with a neutral Cambria quartz countertop. Fun details were included across the room including a new Kohler cast iron sink, Delta Touch-less faucet, pewter knobs and pulls, bronze lighting, and a rich wall color by Benjamin Moore. The homeowner’s couldn’t be happier and are enjoying the new kitchen with family and friends.

The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

UpperKey is excited to introduce our latest project: Parisian Bathrooms. We offer a full range of services to design and renovate bathrooms to meet the needs of those living in Paris. Our skilled team of professionals will bring your bathroom vision to life, creating a space that embodies both style and functionality. You can trust UpperKey to design a bathroom that perfectly reflects your personal tastes and requirements. Additionally, we provide a suite of services for property owners, including guaranteed rent, full property management, and Airbnb concierge services. Our specialists will work with you to find the ideal balance between aesthetics and practicality, so that you can have the bathroom of your dreams without any compromises. UpperKey is committed to providing comprehensive resources and support for property owners in Paris. In our latest article, "Everything You Need to Know About Airbnb Management Paris," we share valuable insights and advice on managing your property on Airbnb. From optimizing your listing to navigating local regulations, our experts cover everything you need to know to succeed in the competitive Parisian market. Read the article on our website to find more: https://theupperkey.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-airbnb-management-in-paris

A modern country home for a busy family with young children. The home remodel included enlarging the footprint of the kitchen to allow a larger island for more seating and entertaining, as well as provide more storage and a desk area. The pocket door pantry and the full height corner pantry was high on the client's priority list. From the cabinetry to the green peacock wallpaper and vibrant blue tiles in the bathrooms, the colourful touches throughout the home adds to the energy and charm. The result is a modern, relaxed, eclectic aesthetic with practical and efficient design features to serve the needs of this family.

Our client’s intension was to make this bathroom suite a very specialized spa retreat. She envisioned exquisite, highly crafted components and loved the colors gold and purple. We were challenged to mix contemporary, traditional and rustic features. Also on the wish-list were a sizeable wardrobe room and a meditative loft-like retreat. Hydronic heated flooring was installed throughout. The numerous features in this project required replacement of the home’s plumbing and electrical systems. The cedar ceiling and other places in the room replicate what is found in the rest of the home. The project encompassed 400 sq. feet. Features found at one end of the suite are new stained glass windows – designed to match to existing, a Giallo Rio slab granite platform and a Carlton clawfoot tub. The platform is banded at the floor by a mosaic of 1″ x 1″ glass tile. Near the tub platform area is a large walnut stained vanity with Contemporary slab door fronts and shaker drawers. This is the larger of two separate vanities. Each are enhanced with hand blown artisan pendant lighting. A custom fireplace is centrally placed as a dominant design feature. The hammered copper that surrounds the fireplace and vent pipe were crafted by a talented local tradesman. It is topped with a Café Imperial marble. A lavishly appointed shower is the centerpiece of the bathroom suite. The many slabs of granite used on this project were chosen for the beautiful veins of quartz, purple and gold that our client adores. Two distinct spaces flank a small vanity; the wardrobe and the loft-like Magic Room. Both precisely fulfill their intended practical and meditative purposes. A floor to ceiling wardrobe and oversized built-in dresser keep clothing, shoes and accessories organized. The dresser is topped with the same marble used atop the fireplace and inset into the wardrobe flooring. The Magic Room is a space for resting, reading or just gazing out on the serene setting. The reading lights are Oil Rubbed Bronze. A drawer within the step up to the loft keeps reading and writing materials neatly tucked away. Within the highly customized space, marble, granite, copper and art glass come together in a harmonious design that is organized for maximum rejuvenation that pleases our client to not end! Photo, Matt Hesselgrave

UpperKey is excited to introduce our latest project: Parisian Bathrooms. We offer a full range of services to design and renovate bathrooms to meet the needs of those living in Paris. Our skilled team of professionals will bring your bathroom vision to life, creating a space that embodies both style and functionality. You can trust UpperKey to design a bathroom that perfectly reflects your personal tastes and requirements. Additionally, we provide a suite of services for property owners, including guaranteed rent, full property management, and Airbnb concierge services. Our specialists will work with you to find the ideal balance between aesthetics and practicality, so that you can have the bathroom of your dreams without any compromises. UpperKey is committed to providing comprehensive resources and support for property owners in Paris. In our latest article, "Everything You Need to Know About Airbnb Management Paris," we share valuable insights and advice on managing your property on Airbnb. From optimizing your listing to navigating local regulations, our experts cover everything you need to know to succeed in the competitive Parisian market. Read the article on our website to find more: https://theupperkey.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-airbnb-management-in-paris

This is our first time decorating a house. Starting from knowing nothing at all to now having the hard decoration completed, we have experienced every emotion along the way—anxiety, doubt, tiredness, hesitation, joy, satisfaction, and touch. We learned and explored on our own, and bit by bit, we finished decorating our home. We’ve accumulated so much experience in this process, and now we want to share it, hoping it can be of a little help to all of you who are doing your own home decoration. Preparations in Advance 1、Clarify your own ideas: Whether you are looking online, talking to designers, or copying ideas from friends' homes, you should have a clear vision of what your home should look like before designing—such as the style, color scheme, and elements to be used... It is crucial to avoid wanting to install everything that looks good in others' homes in your own. This way, you can clearly put forward your requirements during the design and decoration process, and also avoid frequent revisions to the plan, which may lead to unnecessary rework. 2、Understand your own needs: You need to first figure out the needs of your family, such as how many people live in the house permanently, how many rooms are needed, everyone's living habits, and daily preferences... A home is always for living in, so functionality is always the most important. It is best to list these needs and give priority to meeting them during the design and decoration. This way, you won't find out after decoration that many necessary things are missing, while a bunch of installed things are useless. 3、Determine your budget: There are ways to decorate with more money, and also ways to do it with less. No matter how much money you have, the decorated house can be both beautiful and practical. Therefore, it is essential to decide exactly how much you want to spend on decoration. In every link, such as designing the plan, making a budget table, selecting materials, and construction, you should act in accordance with your own budget. 4、Understand the advantages and disadvantages of your house: There is no perfect house in the world, and every house has its pros and cons. Your design plan should avoid its shortcomings and amplify its advantages. I once wrote an article about the drawbacks of my house ("My house is not perfect, but I still want to find ways to save it"), so we figured out solutions to these problems during the decoration. 5、Learn as much decoration knowledge as possible in advance: Although you can pick up this knowledge in the subsequent decoration process, it is better to learn more beforehand. This will make you much more calm when facing problems. 6、Know your strengths: Before decoration, you must be clear about what you are good at and what you are not. If you are good at design, do the design yourself; if you are skilled at bargaining, go buy building materials on your own; if you have strong hands-on ability, you can even do the decoration and repairs yourself... During the decoration process, you should focus on what you are good at, and leave what you are not good at to others.

This 1938 South Minneapolis Tudor was ready for a Kitchen remodel that not only improved the aesthetics, but also the function. Luckily, the home was asking for a larger kitchen. By removing what was originally a breakfast room or informal dining, we were able to expand the kitchen for new potential. A new archway was designed to open the new kitchen to the formal dining and living room. We had a small list of “must haves” including a large pantry wall, double oven, and custom bench seating. All new custom cabinetry was designed with practical storage including a lazy susan corner, trash/recycle pull-out, sink tip-out, full extension drawers, shelf pull-outs, silverware organizers, tray tip-up, pocket door appliance garage, a space in the pantry for their vacuum, and a messaging corner. To complement the homes dark woodwork and stone front facade, new porcelain slate tile floors, rich cherry stained cabinets, and natural slate tile backsplash were paired with a neutral Cambria quartz countertop. Fun details were included across the room including a new Kohler cast iron sink, Delta Touch-less faucet, pewter knobs and pulls, bronze lighting, and a rich wall color by Benjamin Moore. The homeowner’s couldn’t be happier and are enjoying the new kitchen with family and friends.

design: Carrie Preston (Studio TOOP) and Jasper Helmantel (Cruydt Hoeck), 2011 location: Appeltern, NL status: built in 2012 by Appeltern Model Garden Complex photos: Olga van Saane, October 2013 Designed as assignment from both the Dutch gardening magazine Groei & Bloei and the television and radio nature program Vara's Vroege Vogels, this garden serves as a model of how homeowners can incorporate lots of plant life and wildlife into the design but without sacrificing practicality or aesthetics. The garden is deliberately contemporary in its style to emphasize that nature-rich gardens need not look a certain way - insects and birds don't care if the lines are straight or curved. At the same time the garden makes use of affordable, simple, no-nonsense materials. The 40x60 cm paving stones are one of the most common and affordable paving options in the Netherlands, available en masse for free on the Internet. Conceptually we imagined a garden completely paved with the tiles (as to many gardens are) and what would happen if took out some of these stones, used them to build benches and structure and added plants where the tiles had been. In the construction of the benches we include other materials such as bamboo sticks and insulation bricks that create habitat for insects such as solitary bees. The plant palette is based on a selection of native and host plants in combination with the 26 plants plan set up by Groei & Boei -- a list of plants aimed at making the use of more plants in gardens accessible and less intimidating. The choice for the number 26 corresponds with the number of letters in the alphabet in line with the famous Dutch garden designer Mien Ruy's comment that if we only need 26 letters to create a whole language, we should be able to combine and mix 26 plants to express far more than we think.

Designer: Emily Blonigen Home Style: Tudor Design Style: Traditional Project Completion Date: November 2016 This 1938 South Minneapolis Tudor was ready for a Kitchen remodel that not only improved the aesthetics, but also the function. Luckily, the home was asking for a larger kitchen. By removing what was originally a breakfast room or informal dining, we were able to expand the kitchen for new potential. A new archway was designed to open the new kitchen to the formal dining and living room. We had a small list of “must haves” including a large pantry wall, double oven, and custom bench seating. All new custom cabinetry was designed with practical storage including a lazy susan corner, trash/recycle pull-out, sink tip-out, full extension drawers, shelf pull-outs, silverware organizers, tray tip-up, pocket door appliance garage, a space in the pantry for their vacuum, and a messaging corner. To complement the homes dark woodwork and stone front facade, new porcelain slate tile floors, rich cherry stained cabinets, and natural slate tile backsplash were paired with a neutral Cambria quartz countertop. Fun details were included across the room including a new Kohler cast iron sink, Delta Touch-less faucet, pewter knobs and pulls, bronze lighting, and a rich wall color by Benjamin Moore. The homeowner’s couldn’t be happier and are enjoying the new kitchen with family and friends.

UpperKey is excited to introduce our latest project: Parisian Bathrooms. We offer a full range of services to design and renovate bathrooms to meet the needs of those living in Paris. Our skilled team of professionals will bring your bathroom vision to life, creating a space that embodies both style and functionality. You can trust UpperKey to design a bathroom that perfectly reflects your personal tastes and requirements. Additionally, we provide a suite of services for property owners, including guaranteed rent, full property management, and Airbnb concierge services. Our specialists will work with you to find the ideal balance between aesthetics and practicality, so that you can have the bathroom of your dreams without any compromises. UpperKey is committed to providing comprehensive resources and support for property owners in Paris. In our latest article, "Everything You Need to Know About Airbnb Management Paris," we share valuable insights and advice on managing your property on Airbnb. From optimizing your listing to navigating local regulations, our experts cover everything you need to know to succeed in the competitive Parisian market. Read the article on our website to find more: https://theupperkey.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-airbnb-management-in-paris

Hand-Cut lino inlay functional practical low profile industrial flooring protection 4 wood, softens tile, cement or stone, great anywhere in standard sizes, custom color palette Made with Eco Friendly Linoleum, Felt backed vinyl and natural adhesive

A modern country home for a busy family with young children. The home remodel included enlarging the footprint of the kitchen to allow a larger island for more seating and entertaining, as well as provide more storage and a desk area. The pocket door pantry and the full height corner pantry was high on the client's priority list. From the cabinetry to the green peacock wallpaper and vibrant blue tiles in the bathrooms, the colourful touches throughout the home adds to the energy and charm. The result is a modern, relaxed, eclectic aesthetic with practical and efficient design features to serve the needs of this family.

Welcome to the CHATEAU BLANC in prestigious British Properties. This magnificent Luxury house combines European architecture and charm with contemporary design. Crafted by the renowned Morez Design and built by MARBLE CONSTRUCTION, the winner of best single family homes in Canada. Exceptional materials include SWAROVSKI light fixtures, Italian tiles and counter tops, illuminated mirrors, water feature , Miele appliances, control 4 and more. With practical and FengShui design in mind, high ceilings, huge rooms with walk-in closets & en-suites, custom kitchen cabinets, and staircase, spice kitchen are just some of the features. Close to Capilano golf course, trails, seawall, park royal, lions gate bridge, top elementary and secondary schools. Enjoy privacy on this 16,553 sqft gated FLAT lot. *** The address of this property had been changed from 374 St. James Crescent to 372 St. James Crescent *** About Maz Majidi Maz Majidi is a Persian speaking luxury real estate advisor based in North Vancouver, specializing in high end homes across West Vancouver, North Vancouver, and Downtown Vancouver. With 12 years of experience, a background in building design from BCIT, and years of hands on construction management, Maz offers strong technical insight into modern homes, construction quality, and luxury property design. Maz has been recognized as one of the top realtors at Angell Hasman and Associates in 2021, 2022, and 2023, representing some of the most desirable homes on the North Shore. He provides expert Persian language service for buyers and sellers, along with high quality marketing for every listing. ارائه خدمات تخصصی خرید و فروش خانه و ملک لوکس در نورث ونکوور و وست ونکوور به زبان فارسی مشاوره خرید و فروش خانه برای هموطنان ایرانی در ونکوور و نورث ونکوور و وست ونکوور www.mazmajidi.ca @mazmajidi

The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

UpperKey is excited to introduce our latest project: Parisian Bathrooms. We offer a full range of services to design and renovate bathrooms to meet the needs of those living in Paris. Our skilled team of professionals will bring your bathroom vision to life, creating a space that embodies both style and functionality. You can trust UpperKey to design a bathroom that perfectly reflects your personal tastes and requirements. Additionally, we provide a suite of services for property owners, including guaranteed rent, full property management, and Airbnb concierge services. Our specialists will work with you to find the ideal balance between aesthetics and practicality, so that you can have the bathroom of your dreams without any compromises. UpperKey is committed to providing comprehensive resources and support for property owners in Paris. In our latest article, "Everything You Need to Know About Airbnb Management Paris," we share valuable insights and advice on managing your property on Airbnb. From optimizing your listing to navigating local regulations, our experts cover everything you need to know to succeed in the competitive Parisian market. Read the article on our website to find more: https://theupperkey.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-airbnb-management-in-paris

Having an eye for great interior design yet no clue on where to start or how to narrow down their aesthetic vision, a young family turned to Décor Aid to bring their drab pre-war Upper West Side apartment to life. With two young daughters in tow, our clients were looking for high style décor grounded in practicality and function – namely for their foyer, living room, dining room, and den. Armed with a variety of inspiration from traditional to ultra-modern, they knew that they wanted their apartment’s interior design to look put together and thought through, but were short on a concise design direction. In comes Décor Aid interior designer Gabrielle G. to revive their stark home with inspired design. After their initial in-home consultation, Gabrielle honed in on key decorative touchstones the couple had interest in and compiled a list of must-haves as an aesthetic foundation for the home. Starting with fresh coats of pure white paint to liven up and brighten each room, Gabrielle took advantage of the apartments closed floor plan and gave each room it’s own design signature rather than having to ensure that everything flowed together – in turn, giving her more freedom. Save for a china cabinet and formal dining table, Gabrielle was tasked with sourcing furnishings and accessories and went for clean simplicity as the couple also expressed that they’d like to have pieces that can move with them as their family grows while also being conducive for family life. As you can see, the space is grounded with soothing neutrals so Gabrielle brought in pops of color and texture through accessories and abstract art for a sophisticated yet casual vibe. The end result boasts concise design and pulled together everyday glamor for this modern family home that our clients adore, and so do we.