Decorating & Design
A Lackluster Kitchen Becomes The Ultimate Family-Friendly Hub
Published on October 1, 2020
When her sons officially left the nest, this homeowner decided to downsize from a spacious two-storey property to a ranch-style house nestled in Langley, British Columbia. Sure, the 1970s-era box lacked architectural charm and was in serious need of a facelift, but it was perfect for those precious days ahead she’d spend as a new grandmother and entertaining her family during the holidays. With this checklist in mind, designer Jamie Banfield got to work and, a year later, the once-dated dwelling was transformed into a bright, open-concept space with a classic vibe that calls for nothing but more company.
The kitchen is now the focal point for family gatherings. Featuring a large island, handsome quartz counters and decorative wooden beams on the ceiling, the space doesn’t disappoint. “Design sets the tone for how your guests will feel,” says Jamie. “We wanted the space to feel relaxed, layered and not fussy.” It might have taken a little sprucing up, but this kitchen makeover is worth celebrating over a dinner party, or maybe two.
It’s easy to get swept away by the endless possibilities when planning a major makeover. According to Jamie, the secret ingredient to a space that’s perfectly tailored to you is simpler than you think. “Why do you like grabbing coffee at your favorite coffee shop? Do you enjoy the large harvest table?” he asks. “Find out what makes you happy and makes you feel good, then use those elements in your own home.”
In this case, it’s the island that’ll allow the homeowner to have grandchildren in the kitchen for cookie-baking and girlfriends over for a glass of wine. Prioritizing features for a client’s lifestyle compatibility rather than trend appeal will create a space they’ll love to live in.
Benjamin Moore’s Gentleman’s Gray gives the kitchen island and lower cabinets an inviting splash of color. “We wanted something to ground the space to create a focal point,” says Jamie. The blue is balanced by white uppers and ceiling panels for timeless appeal. This unique vent hood cladding adds rustic texture.
Opening up the kitchen to enhance flow took knocking down a few walls, removing a built-in pantry and taking over the dining area — otherwise known as a total layout revamp. “When laying out a kitchen, try to remove as many corners as possible as these aren’t ideal for function, work surface or storage that’s accessible and useful,” says Jamie. “L-shaped with two sinks and a large island — this layout can accommodate everyday living and a large gathering with multiple chefs in the kitchen.”
Having a hardworking chef’s sink on the perimeter counter plus a sink in the island doubles the workspace, making entertaining a piece of cake. “During large gatherings, dessert can be set up on the island while the main sink can be used for cleaning up dishes from dinner,” he says. Striking glass globe pendants add a touch of luminescence.
To keep the space from feeling fussy, Jamie added casual items such as plants, loaf pans and a bowl of corks on the open shelving. “Mix-and-match pieces show your guests that it’s OK to place a glass of wine on the counter without a coaster, or to open the fridge and grab some juice,” says Jamie.
Janis Nicolay
House & Home Kitchens + Baths 2020
Jamie Banfield