City Homes
April 10, 2024
How One Couple Dreamed Up An English Country Kitchen In The City
The popularity of Mad Men sparked a renewed interest in mid-century modern interiors. Many homeowners were eager to embrace the sleek style — but not Chris Beech and Erin Svara. The Toronto couple looked further afield for inspiration when it came to revamping their suburban ’50s kitchen in the East York area. “They like cooking and family time, hosting and entertaining,” says designer Ashley Montgomery, who was brought in to reimagine the space. “Chris is from Nottinghamshire, England, so he wanted to recreate that English country warmth.” They were drawn to English country kitchens for their inviting feel and wanted that vibe to spill over into the rest of their house, which had a second storey added in 2012.
Erin and Chris wanted something that felt timeless, but fresh. “We saw many newly built homes that were beautiful, but too modern for us,” says Erin. In 2020, they found this property and saw the potential to make it their own.” Erin and Chris wanted to include beams and brick elements to conjure the feeling of a real country home. Now, it’s easy for guests to gravitate toward the new kitchen — it’s as inviting as a hot cuppa. “The island is our favorite place,” says Erin. “We use it for breakfast and lunches, and it’s a great entertaining spot for a spread and glass of wine when we have guests over. We wanted a home that felt cozy and lived-in, like a nice big hug!”
Scroll down for a look inside their English country kitchen in the city!
According to Ashley, everyone should create a Pinterest board to convey their vision before the start of a project. “It doesn’t need to be strictly interior images,” says Ashley. “It can be anything that feeds your soul, whether that’s food or lifestyle shots.”
Keep scrolling for her expert design and reno tips!
Bring Detail To The Island
To make the island look more antique, shiplap detailing was installed on the ends and the oak was stained a rich walnut tone. The floors were replaced with engineered planks and traditional wall detailing was removed.
Add Architectural Detail
Exposed beams aren’t common in older suburban houses, but they can be added to create instant country heritage.
Have Ample Seating
“The kitchen is the heart of the home, so we made sure there’s space for everyone in the family at the island,” says Ashley.
Accessorize with “Jewelry”
Ashley sings the praises of beautiful fixtures like this bridge faucet by Perrin & Rowe. “I feel like I use this in every single project — it’s like the jewelry of the kitchen,” she says. Stylistically, the dark island acts as a foil for the lighttoned range, which is accentuated by a tall backsplash.
Choose Finishes With Soul
Unlacquered brass or oil-rubbed bronze materials have living finishes that add lots of dimension.
Be Choosy About Cabinet Colors
For designer Ashley Montgomery, the cabinet color sets the tone for everything else. Her goal for this heritage-inspired kitchen was to find a shade that brought warmth but wasn’t too overpowering. This mushroom grey with sage undertones fit the bill.
Mind Your Appliances
Stainless steel is too industrial for a country kitchen, says Ashley. She chose a porcelain range to be the focus and panelled the fridge to make it disappear.
Add Panelling for a Heritage Feel
Vertical tongue-and-groove panelling injects architectural character while appliances like an enamel-finished range (a budget-friendly alternative to pricier European models) brings authentic country charm. “The pot filler really dresses up the backsplash,” says Ashley. “It’s a nice focal point because it matches the brass knobs on the range below.”
Create A Focal Point
Finishing off the look are oversized pendants hovering above the island, an updated take on old schoolhouse lights. “The house is open: you can see right back to the kitchen when you walk in the front door,” says the designer. “We needed something there that would draw your attention.”
Solve Two Problems
With One Custom Piece In the mudroom, a custom-made cabinet with built-in bench allows the kids to sit to pull on boots whether the doors are open or shut. The reclaimed brick veneer floor conceals messy footprints and salt stains, and vent holes in the cabinet doors let gear dry out. Off-season items are stashed in the top cubbies.
Get Playful in Small Spaces
Layering a rich botanical wallpaper by William Morris and dusky blue wainscotting makes this petite powder room feel extra special. Originally, the powder room was increased in size and outfitted with a new vanity and paint. “But as the build went on, it felt like something was missing in the powder room,” says Ashley. “I’m super happy we decided to do something fun and add the botanical wallpaper.”
Order Early
Even when supply-chain issues aren’t plaguing the industry, it’s safest to order appliances and plumbing fixtures as early in the process as possible to account for delays.
Lauren Miller
House & Home