Decorating & Design
A Timeless Trad Kitchen By Olly + Em
Published on November 8, 2024
The owners of this newly built Georgian-style home in Toronto’s west end had two asks for their kitchen: it needed to suit their young family but also have classic style with gracious entertaining amenities. They tapped Brittaney Elgner of Olly + Em, who delivered in spades. A Lacanche range, apron sink and island with reeded details anchor the space, but what really instils classic charm is the French blue butler’s servery and the warm, off-white pantry.
Scroll down for our Q&A with Brittaney, and take a look inside this timeless, traditional kitchen!
House & Home: How did you meet your clients’ needs?
Brittaney Elgner: They’re a young couple who wanted their home to have a refined, grown-up feel that was still family-friendly and not too stuffy. The decorating elements had to stand the test of time. They like to entertain, so we created continuity and connection between the living room and kitchen by bringing in a mix of new items and antiques, so it felt like the home had always been here.
H&H: How did you keep the traditional style fresh?
BE: The lighting choices make a big difference, and we added a bead to the framed kitchen cabinets for another layer of detail. For a more contemporary feel, the quartzite counters have a leathered finish, and the hardwood floor and oak island warm up the white millwork and walls so they don’t feel sterile. This is their forever home — a place that welcomes you every time you cross the threshold.
H&H: What was on their wish list?
BE: The clients really wanted the double Lacanche range. It was a late addition that enhanced the kitchen and complemented the design of the home. They also wanted more functionality and a double dishwasher that would make cleaning up after a dinner party a breeze.
H&H: Tell us about the beautiful butler’s servery and pantry.
BE: The butler’s servery is a French blue space between the kitchen and the formal dining room that has a built-in coffee bar. It feels special, unique and very elegant. The pantry is located just off the servery. It’s a practical yet charming room; the lower cupboards have functional pullouts, while upper shelves display some of the clients’ pottery collection.
A breakfast area is tucked into the bay window adjacent to the kitchen, with soft sheers to filter the light.
To give the living room a more formal look, Brittaney had a cast stone French limestone mantel installed. Arched doors overlook the pool.
Virginia Macdonald
House & Home
Richard Wengle (architecture)/Brittaney Elgner (design)