One blends an overtly English sensibility with contemporary practicality. One uses colour and antique finishes to convey its country roots. And despite its obvious mod-cons, the final one achieves a traditional country mood via its mix of old-world inspiration, generous use of wood, and classic, beautifully articulated details.
While it's the variety of materials and finishes used that determine each kitchen's character, these rooms are, first and foremost, real work spaces, designed for efficient storage, preparation and cooking. And so, as evidence that you don't have to sacrifice function for good looks, we offer to you the voice of experience: Roberto Fracchioni, executive chef of Jordan, Ontario's renowned Inn on the Twenty, dishes up a few constructive comments. Take note, homeowners: Rob says that he'd jump at the chance to cook in any of these kitchens.
CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY STYLE
From its charming leaded windows and simple wood cabinetry to the practical pantry and colourful Cath Kidston linens, this new kitchen in an old Montreal house has a discernable English air about it. It's an atmosphere influenced, in part, by the fact that the young owners once lived in Europe, says decorator Eros Greatti, who also contributed to its look. “The owner had a very clear idea of what she wanted: a Miele dishwasher, a wall-mounted stove, some cheerful kitchen fabrics - some of the things you'd find in a beautiful European home, but with a North American twist.”
There are several contemporary features that update the vernacular, chiefly the overall clean lines, the choice of high-powered appliances, and the fact that the room encompasses both an eating and living area. There's also the sharp stainless steel backsplash and powerful exhaust fan that enclose the high-octane range, the combination of recessed halogen lights and pendant fixtures, and the graphic diamond pattern that defines the hardwood floor.
Taking his cue from the room's natural light and from the cool marble countertop, one of the first features chosen, Eros devised a scheme of restful colours and finishes using Farrow & Ball paints. “The light in the room can determine everything,” says Eros, “including whether or not to go light or dark, flat or glossy.” In the end, he and the client settled on Blackened (a soft blue) for the walls, Ringwold Ground (a warm white) for the floor, and Pointing for the trim and ceiling.
“Anything anyone could ever want in a kitchen, this one has it,” he says.
CHEF APPROVED
Rob agrees with designer Eros Greatti's final assessment of the kitchen. In particular, he applauds:
• the two sinks, one of which is in the island directly behind the range - “exactly where you want it when you're blanching vegetables, so that you can plunge them into cold water”;
• the stainless steel cladding around the range, which he admires for its looks and practicality;
• the variety of light sources, which make for a light, bright work space.
His only quibble: the position of the spice rack next to the oven, where the heat will diminish the lifespan of dried herbs
0 Comment