Kitchens

March 30, 2017

4 Elements Of A Modern Family Kitchen

With the homeowners’ third baby on the way, Toronto designer Sam Sacks had six months to update an ’80s kitchen. In addition to increasing the square-footage and bringing it into the modern era, they needed lots of storage, plus room for hosting laid-back dinner parties. “The owners are both creatives, and they were willing to have some fun with the design,” says Sam.

To create more breathing room, the kitchen was relocated from the back of the house to the center, where the dining room had been. Sam then added plenty of clean-lined white oak cabinetry — including two spacious pantries — a guest-and kid-friendly breakfast bar, and stunning chevron flooring to nod to the Victorian home’s elegant bones. Eye-catching light fixtures and pops of color in the seating, artwork and accessories put a creative spin on this contemporary kitchen. Take a virtual tour of the space below, and discover how to create a similar look in your own space.

Welcoming Breakfast Bar

1-Creative-Modern-Kitchen-Sam-Sacks

 A generous bar and upholstered stools set the stage for casual dinners and mingling. “The owners wanted to chat with each other, and their guests, during meal prep,” says Sam. Honed Calacatta marble on the counters and backsplash has a luxe quality and marries well with the warm cabinetry, which was designed by Sam and fabricated by Rettie Restoration.

Striking Fixtures

Sam Sacks Kitchen

Modern sconces from YLighting and artful pendants from 1stdibs elevate the space. The luxe fibreglass light fixtures over the island were a worthwhile splurge.

White Oak Floors

Sam Sacks Kitchen

White oak chevron flooring brings historical charm to the kitchen. “It screams ‘Parisian flat,’” says Sam.

Casual Dining Area

Sam Sacks Kitchen

A light wood table from Design Within Reach makes room for the whole family, while art and sculptural lights add personality. Architectural components like the graphic black windows and open sight lines are among Sam’s favorite features. “We had very long discussions about where the person sipping wine and talking to the chef would most comfortably lounge,” says Sam. If you’re planning to build an outdoor kitchen or dining area, you may get in touch with a house addition contractor and discuss your plans.

Author: Reiko Milley
Photographer:

Alex Lukey

Source:

House & Home October 2016

Designer:

Sam Sacks