New Kitchen Project and Design Plan

A new kitchen project (three of them, actually) is underway. A lot of you are fans of 'The Lorey's house', as are we. We've done their master bedroom, tween daughter's bedroom, son's room, dining room, family room and guest room/office. They always had intentions of finishing the house and renovating the kitchen so 6 months ago they called us up and said it was time. It's going to be absolutely beautiful if I do say so myself. Ginny is the lead designer on this project and she has done such a great job of designing and project managing this job.

Here is what this kitchen looked like before:

It's a decent sized kitchen with lots of dated finishes and fixtures. The house is a traditional 1920's Silverlake bungalow. It has classic if not slightly regency finishes and fixtures throughout, with some pattern, color and a general feeling of fun and casual. They/we've done a really great job of making this house feel super homey, happy and family-friendly while modernizing its classic/traditional style. We pulled some of these kitchens for inspiration and general direction goes for the space.

After the general look and feel was approved by the client we moved onto the finishes and detail ideas. Here is the product board that Ginny presented:

They liked it but it still got tweaked. This option had a more traditional tile and more grey-grey's for the cabinet color.

Sources: faucet, brass knob, brass pull handle, fireclay sink

Along with that board we presented a lot of options. Some clients can handle this many options, some can't. Howard and Nicole are two that have really good taste and are fairly decisive but they like to know options and pricing. So we do these boards for each one.

Next up was the hardware. We all knew that they wanted a gold tone because A) its beautiful and, B) that is the finish they have throughout their home. The questions became – lacquered, unlacquered, aged, shiny, matte or satin?? There are a ton of options out there and a lot of price points. So we broke it down for them.

Ultimately because their house is traditional and has a classic feel to it we went with unlacquered brass that is shiny now but will patina and will get more beautiful (and darker and more matte) with age. This was a hard decision because matte brass is technically more trendy now, but we went with the style of the house  which wanted classic, not hip. Also classic is always hip, so there's that.

Next up was sinks:

I love how Ginny includes the 'what to consider' at the bottom. It's not just a question of 'farm style' or inset. There are lifestyle questions that each client has to answer to make sure that they are getting the product that makes the most sense for them functionally – not just aesthetically (same with the faucet and knob/pull conversations above). Can you handle the double handle on a faucet or do you like to do a quick cold-to-hot motion with one hand? With each renovation approximately 9,457 decisions are made. We try to make as many recommendations or even answer a lot of them for our clients, but they still have to approve them. I don't know if they like to soak their pots in one side of the sink or if they are a straight-to-the-dishwasher people.

Meanwhile we worked on the layout. This was in conjunction with a contractor. You can't just draw up a fantasy layout – there are many things that have to be considered and calculated into the plan.

Here is the existing layout:

The questions we had were:

1. Do you want to open the kitchen up into the dining room (which is the left wall in the photo)? We all agreed that while we love the open concept idea, it wasn't right for this house. This is something that I'd like the world to really think about – do you want your kitchen seen from your more formal rooms? The dining room is a really beautiful focal point in the house – the room that you see very first when you come through the foyer. Having it shared with the kitchen would ruin that lovely classic formality that we had created. We are doing another full renovation right now where the homeowner has told us blatantly that she doesn't want her kitchen opened up and we absolutely agreed. She doesn't have young kids anymore, and she loves to make a HUGE mess while cooking dinner parties, so she wants her kitchen to be her kitchen and her dining room to be this formal beautiful space of its own. It's something to think about, for sure.

We did however want it to flow more into the breakfast nook (that was shared with the family room). So we were going to open up that wall a bit and create more counter space there.

2. Do you want to create more space by opening up the pantry and have it become part of the kitchen? We all decided YES.

3. Do you like where are the appliances are both aesthetically and functionally? Not all. The fridge and oven were to move, but the sink and stove stayed in place.

Our contractor worked with Ginny and our cabinet guy to come up with this plan:

We have created so much more storage, counter space AND eliminated some upper cabinets so it feels bigger and more open despite it being narrow.

Ginny refined the design plan with the actual finishes and fixtures that were chosen that were approved. It is going to be GORGEOUS, folks.

For the final plan we chose a more graphic cement tile with a slate blue/gray for the cabinet color.  We ended up going for a 33″ sink instead of a 30″ which works much better with the size of their kitchen and we went with a blue for the cabinets to bring the floor color up into the space.

Sources: faucet, bin pulls, cabinet knobs, farmhouse sink, pendant lights – Baldwin 6″ fitter in unlacquered brass with 12″ Deco stepped shade, wall tiles from Fireclay tile in Blue Spruce, floor tiles from Cle Tile in Big Al and cabinet color Wolf Grey by Benjamin Moore.

The kitchen renovation is underway, but we have a few more weeks. In the meantime, the custom cabinets are coming along very nicely:

At the same time we have demo'd the existing space all out in prep for everything new coming in. The whole project should take 6 weeks, CROSS YOUR FINGERS.

While cabinets are being produced the floor tile went in. YOU. GUYS. IT. IS. STUNNING.

Up next … the cabinet install. Quick note about the cabinets – although this could be its own 10 part series. You have a few options as far as cabinets go – readymade (Ikea, although i'm sure the Home Depot/Lowes have their own) or custom. Ikea is very, very inexpensive, less customizable and ultimately not as good quality. Custom is very expensive (I believe these were $25k) and they will be PERFECT in both style, size, finish and quality for the space. If you are updating your kitchen I would suggest going for Ikea cabinets or repainting or simply refacing your cabinets. But, if you are hiring a designer and contractor to completely renovate your kitchen, then get the cabinets of your dreams. This is a once in a lifetime job and something you will live with for a long time – INVEST or you may regret it later down the line.

A few things you may notice – we took the cabinets to the ceiling. There used to be a soffit above all the cabinets which was completely empty and useless so we removed it and greatly increased the height of the cabinets which meant more storage and a better use of space. To avoid a trend (even though we currently love it) and to keep it classic, we painted the uppers and lowers the same color, while the open shelving on the other side will be either white, marble or wood – it's TBD.

Stay tuned for the full kitchen reveal in a couple months (it has to get finished, shot, styled.) I'm sure you have some questions/comments so go for it and we'll try to answer or update the post if there are large chunks of info missing.

See the rest of the Lorey's home here: Living Room progress | Tween Girl Bedroom  | 5 Tips to Design a Timeless Boys Bedroom | Dining Room | Office Turned Guest Room  | Bright and Airy Family Room  | Master Bedroom 

*Design Boards by Ginny Macdonald for EHD. 

The post New Kitchen Project and Design Plan appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Color Crush : How to Rock Fiesta Red

Hola amigos! It’s Carla here, writing from Arizona where I’m enjoying spring break with the fam. I am happy to report that all of the ladybirds who live in my in-laws’ retirement community are embracing the hot new hues we’ve been posting about this Spring including today’s color . . . FIESTA RED!

Red has gotten a bad rap all these years. When I close my eyes and think of red, I think of Lee Press On Nails (tacky), the convertible Christie Brinkley pulls up in next to Chevy Chase in National Lampoon’s Vacation (sexy), and half of the outfits Samantha Jones wore in Sex and the City (flashy). When it comes to decorating, the use of bright red reminds me of “modern” 90’s interior design – again, flashy and tacky.

As a color swatch, red is vibrant and fun – why can’t it be the same in fashion and interior design? Well guess what . . . it CAN. Take a look at the modern new silhouettes and color pairings below, which look anything but tacky.

Unlike the other trend colors that work best paired with neutrals, or sported on their own, there are roughly a gazillion ways to mix fiesta red into your home. Let’s start simple with some subtle pops.

I love how this super sleek, modern chair is paired with an eclectic mix of patterns and textures.

Again, these chairs have such a refined silhouette – they could go 90’s “modern” fast – but the embroidered pillow and unexpected floral print make for an overall interesting mix.

If you’re new to red – try an easy solid pillow as shown here . . . such a simple way to make a statement.

Red is a fun gender-neutral color to incorporate in a nursery or kid’s room. Without this apple print, this room might be a snooze-fest. That apple adds the perfect amount of color and fun.

These chairs look a WEEEE bit seductive, don’t they? But when countered with a solid wood table the overall look is balanced.

Mixing a bold color with a bold silhouette seems like overkill, but by keeping the rest of this room simple, it’s the perfect mix.

Alright. Party time. While collecting inspiration for this post, I starting finding street style looks that paired perfectly with similarly outfitted interiors. While home trends usually follow fashion trends, it’s hard to tell from the pairings below which inspired which. I love how each of these seven looks and spaces incorporate fiesta red in a totally original way.

1. Fiesta Red + Teal Blue

Pairing bright red with an equally bold teal blue surprisingly looks balanced and chic. Imagine this space below without the pop of red. While the wallpaper obviously stands on its own, the accent chair takes it to a whole new level. This color combo can easily get all “southwestern motif” pretty quick, but when the right shades are chosen, it looks modern and fresh.

 

2. Fiesta Red + Girly Pattern

Mixing a bold color with a sugary-sweet pattern seems like overkill, eh? But as you can see in these two examples, it actually works. This chick is keeping her look streamlined and cool with minimal accessories and perfectly imperfect hair. Walking around with your mouth slightly agape doesn’t hurt either. As for this breezy corner below, floral wallpaper + heart art + stiff cocktail = happiness.

3. Fiesta Red + Dark Green

Oh come on now, gurl. You are just too cool for school, with yer little green bow, flower pin, and armful of books. How is she pulling off red, green, AND a bow without looking like a Christmas present? Likewise, this space below is a crazy-good mix of red and green, and green and red – somehow the symmetrical arches, plants, and patterned floor keep the mix of colored walls from looking like a funhouse.

4. Fiesta Red + Crisp White

Similar to how I paired every flannel or sweater I wore in high school with a crisp white turtleneck (class of ’97), this gal has chosen to complement a fun fiesta red skirt, lip, and heel with a simple white tee and handbag. Similarly, the fun red fridge below takes center stage when paired with all-white cabinetry and walls.

5. Fiesta Red + Head-to-Toe Pattern

No need to flag down that taxi, woman… I’m pretty sure he sees you in your head-to-toe patterned jumpsuit and bright red bag. While on a hanger, this outfit would look like a clown costume, but I must say she looks perfect with her chic sandals and simple little ponytail. She is probably headed home to the cute little tot who inhabits this super sweet little nook. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen two patterned wallpapers paired together – especially not with MORE pattern on the floor. I can’t get enough of this room. It’s just magical.

6. Fiesta Red + Cobalt Blue

This looks comfy and polished at the same time. Pairing two bold colors together can work when the silhouettes are clean and simple. Adding fun pattern through shoes and a little clutch brings personality and visual interest. We’ve got some similar color blocking action going on in this fancy shmancy space below. You would think the floral sofa and leopard pillow would be the showstoppers here, but the bold use of red, blue, and green actually steal the show.

7. Fiesta Red + Neutrals (and a cute hat)

If you’re new to red (like me), this here option is the one for you. When trying a new color, you can’t go wrong pairing it with neutrals. The key is to walk around nonchalantly eating a very small serving of frozen yogurt, with a subtle scowl on your face, like this gal. Speaking of subtle scowls, this bold photograph of Kate the Great shines in this otherwise neutral abode.

And now it’s time for a little ditty called “Get the Look.” Below is a round-up of my fiesta faves. But you guys, it was really hard to edit it down to just these items. Much like the fashion and home inspiration I found, there is no shortage of fun fiesta red apparel, accessories, or home stuff out there right now.

Sooo, what say you? Are you on board with fiesta red? Is it too loud and proud for your liking? Do tell. And if yer keeping track of the top ten colors for Spring, be sure to check out Powder Blue, Buttercup Yellow and Lavender.

Time for this mama to get back to the pool. Adios muchachas!

1. Sunglasses | 2. Red Dress (sold out, but similar found here) | 3. Couch | 4. Campaign Dresser | 5. Bandana | 6. Purse | 7. Blouse | 8. Tassel Pillow | 9. Outdoor Chair | 10. 4 Poster Bed | 11. Kate Spade Tassel Pillow | 12. Leopard Rug | 13. XOXO Keychain | 14. Baseball Cap | 15. Pendant | 16. Tea Kettle | 17. Rain Boot | 18. Danske Casserole Pot | 19. Ruffle Jumper | 20. Purse | 21. Scallop Bikini | 22. Desk | 23. Accent Chair | 24. Pitcher | 25. Smeg Fridge | 26. Maxi Dress | 27. Abstract Painting | 28. Platter | 29. Strap Heels | 30. Eames Rocker

Image Sources: Red Velvet Sofa | Red Trench Coat | Red Hat | Red Leather Jacket | Red Sweater Dress | Red Womb Chair | Vintage Italian Red Chairs | Red Throw Pillow on Blue Chesterfield | Red Apple Play Room | Modern Red Chairs | Red Velvet Arm Chair | Teal & Red Street Fashion | Red Dining Room Chair | Cherry Dress | Gold Barcart | Green Midi Skirt | Red Hallway Accent Wall | Printed Tee & Skirt | Red SMEG Fridge | Printed Jumpsuit | Built In Window Bench | Red Box Sweater | Red Walled Living Room | Red Knit Sweater | Kate Moss Art

*Post authored by Carla

 **Carla Fahden is a Creative Director at a creative agency in Minneapolis with a focus on fashion art direction. Off the clock she devotes her time to writing her blog, designing wedding stationery and watching her Felicity box set. 

 

 

The post Color Crush : How to Rock Fiesta Red appeared first on Emily Henderson.

Spring Plank Sign

Hello! Hello! It’s Melanie and Steffany from Find it, Make it, Love it, here to say- Happy Spring everyone! It’s totally official that it’s Spring now, even if the weather here in Utah doesn’t show it……at least not everyday. I have to remind myself every year that snow, rain, and some sunshine are all normal parts of Spring here…. whether we like it or not. So in honor of those warm Spring days, Steff and I are excited to share this super cute Spring framed plank sign.

These framed planks are coming out at the Wood Connection this Thursday. They are brand new. Are you dying?! We are–they are so awesome! We have so many ideas for these things! They come in a few different sizes and are just so perfect. We are so excited to get our hands on a few more!

Let’s get started with what you need to make this SPRING version:

• Framed plank


• Small letters to spell SPRING


• 5 different paint colors for the letters


• Stain


• White paint


• Masking tape


• Glue


• Foam brushes


• Paper and bakers twine (for the banner)

Start by giving the framed plank a light sand to remove any rough corners or edges.

Next, tape the inside so you can stain just the “frame” part of the sign.

Now, use a rag or a foam brush to put a light coat of stain on the frame.

While the stain is drying, let’s paint the letters.

We went with bright, fun rainbow colors for our letters. (The colors we used are: Think Pink, OJ, Crocus Yellow, Leaf Green, Sea Foam, and GP Purple.)

Once the stain is totally dry, remove the tape from the inside and tape off the stained frame part. Paint the inside white. We did two coats.

Set that aside to dry.

Now for the paper banner. So easy to make, but we will show you exactly how we got the perfect triangle in the perfect size, because I sure as heck can’t free hand a dozen triangles. Or even one that looks right-haha! Start by cutting a square of paper that is 1 1/4″ by 1 1/4″. Fold the square in half. Then cut from corner to corner, be sure NOT to cut the folded side. When you open it, you’ll have a perfect little triangle for a banner! Use that triangle as a template- trace and cut each one out.

Using a small hole punch, punch two holes into the top of each triangle. String bakers twine through each one creating a tiny paper banner.

Use wood glue, or hot glue to attach the letters to the framed plank. Secure the banner to the sign, we just used good old tape.

Isn’t it bright and cheerful?! And are you crazy excited to get your hands on a couple of these framed plank signs too?! Head on over to Find it, Make it, Love it to enter our Wood Connection giveaway! You could win a $25 gift card to the Wood Connection!

Here’s hoping for some sunny Spring days!