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10 Ways To Give Your Kitchen Or Bathroom A Fresh New Look

There’s something about the start of a new season that makes us want to refresh our space, whether it’s an easy update or full-blown reno.

If you’re craving change in the most hardworking areas of the home but don’t know where to start, let this be a source of inspiration for your next big project. From building a breakfast nook to going bold with statement stone, these kitchen and bathroom updates are equally on-trend and timeless.

1. Upcycle An Antique

Choosing pieces that feel like furniture you might have elsewhere in the house (think consoles or desks converted into vanities) adds a dose of personality in the bathroom.

  • Photographer Stacey Brandford
  • Designer Sarah Richardson

House & Home May 2018

2. Build A Breakfast Nook

A casual dining spot in the kitchen is perfect for everyday meals (not only breakfast) but also serves as a homework station or cozy place to sit while you keep the cook company.

  • Photographer Janis Nicolay
  • Designer Kyla Bidgood & Kris Hageland, Bidgood + Co

House & Home March 2019

3. Create A Drinks Station

Given our fondness for coffee and wine, it’s no surprise they receive pride of place in modern kitchens. These stations are a great way to show off those drinks’ good-looking accoutrements, but it also keeps them clear of the main cooking zone.

  • Photographer Janet Kimber
  • Designer Colin Blanchard & Kenneth McRobbie, 31 Westgate

House & Home March 2017

4. Go For Statement Lighting

In a room primarily designed for function, it’s important to add some pretty. Layering lighting with pendants and sconces creates a vibe that’s relaxed yet stylish.

  • Photographer Phil Crozier
  • Designer Reena Sotropa & Alanna Dunn, Reena Sotropa In House Design Group

House & Home June 2018

5. Build A Wet Room

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Wet rooms incorporate a shower that isn’t contained by a cubicle (though it’s sometimes separated by a glass partition) with a floor drain. They create a luxurious, open feeling in a principal bathroom and are often paired with freestanding tubs.

  • Photographer Stephani Buchman
  • Designer Natasha Penzo & James Davie

House & Home March 2018

6. Hang Art

The rise of open-concept kitchens means a home’s busiest workspace is on display. Why not make it as pleasing for guests as it is for you with vignettes of paintings, prints and sculptures?

  • Photographer Janis Nicolay
  • Designer Nancy Riesco

House & Home May 2018

7. Add An Outline

White-walled bathrooms are far from boring, especially when you use black-edged mirrors and wrought-iron vanities to add punch.

  • Photographer Virginina Macdonald
  • Designer Katherine Newman

House & Home September 2019

8. Double Up

Whether you’re a pro chef or just a frequent entertainer, creating maximum workspace in your kitchen is essential. Many avid cooks are opting for two islands and two sinks to get the job done.

  • Photographer Maxime Desbiens
  • Designer Cuisines Steam

House & Home February 2020

9. Add Beams

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This architectural element can be structural or decorative — either way, wood beams are fantastic for adding character to a space.

  • Photographer Maxime Desbiens
  • Designer Lux Decor

Maison & Demeure March 2019

10. Go With Bold Stone

Pale stone on counters, backsplashes, in showers or even fabricated as a sink has been de rigueur for years. More richly veined or colored stone is showing up in some of our favorite kitchens and bathrooms, adding natural drama.

  • Photographer Virginia Macdonald
  • Designer Sloan Mauran

House & Home August 2019