Decorating & Design
October 28, 2021
Pale Wood Warms Up A Classic Black And White Kitchen
Building a home from the ground up is no easy task — especially in the middle of a pandemic — but for busy doctor Melanie Toman and her five-year-old son, Gabriel, relocating from Oakville, Ont., to downtown Bowmanville, Ont., was a chance for a fresh start. She hired designer Orsi Panos to give the home a curated feel with a classic kitchen. “The intention was to create a kitchen that didn’t look new,” says Orsi. “The mix of finishes made it feel like it had evolved over time.”
The 430-square-foot space features a classic black and white palette layered with pale woods and soft neutrals. The sophisticated look brings together painted and white oak millwork, matte black and brass hardware, statement brass pendants, a two-tone copper faucet and handmade glazed ceramic backsplash tile. Scroll down to tour this classic kitchen!
“The room slowly unfolds as you notice the details and layers,” says designer Orsi Panos.
For the perimeter cabinets, the designer chose a combination of soft white and oak. “A touch of wood always adds a dash of charm,” she says. Adding to the softness is counter-to-ceiling artisanal backsplash tile, for an inviting, layered space perfect for making new memories.
The table gets a lot of use, says Melanie, who loves to cook. “It’s where new recipes are made and enjoyed.” Mid-century-style dining chairs follow the table’s curves.
“The tiled vent hood was a huge leap of faith for me,” says Melanie. The island colour, however, felt closer to home. “When I showed Melanie Farrow & Ball’s Railings, it was love at first sight,” says Orsi. Shades of white on the walls, tile and perimeter cabinets create a floor-to-ceiling backdrop for the dark-toned island. Oversized brass pendants create a dramatic focal point.
Mixed metal hardware and a matte black and copper faucet are an unexpected touch.
Open shelving and a reeded glass-front cabinet show off glassware and dishes. A combination of painted and white oak cabinets further sets this kitchen apart.
Patrick Biller
House & Home October 2021
Catherine Therrien
Orsi Panos