Dreamy Blue and White Kitchens

Source: houseofturquoise.com via Wendi on Pinterest

Do you LOVE a timeless WHITE KITCHEN as much as I do?

For me, a white kitchen is like a blank canvas, ready to be transformed into a breathtaking work of art with a few brush strokes of a new and beautiful accent colour!

Source: decorpad.com via Wendi on Pinterest

When I see a gorgeous white kitchen perfectly accented by delicate touches of SOFT BLUE... I instantly fall head over heels in love!

Source: Houzz.com Designer: Dallas Kitchen And Bath B&S Woodworking Inc.

Soft blue is such a lovely complement to classic white cabinetry, dark floors and stainless steel appliances.

Source: Houzz.com Designer: Huntington Kitchen And Bath Mountaineer WoodCraft

Don't you think the blue washed ceiling and sapphire light pendants create a wonderful, summery atmosphere in this kitchen?

Source: Houzz.com Designer: Portland Interior Designer Jenny Baines, Jennifer Baines Interiors

Blue also naturally accentuates the blue-grey undertones in white marble, and makes polished silver sparkle!

Source: bhg.com via Wendi on Pinterest

Even a solitary splash of blue injects life and interest in an all-white kitchen.  I love how the little velvet stool holds such a strong presence in this room.

Source: blackeiffel.blogspot.com via Wendi on Pinterest

I just had to include a picture of my dream kitchen in this post.  I love everything about this space, but the french blue chairs in the sitting area are the icing on the cake!

Source: houzz.com via Wendi on Pinterest

I'm planning on adding a touch of dreamy blue to my own white kitchen in the new year.  I can't wait!

What about you...  Is there a new accent colour that you'd love to try out in your home?  I'd love to hear about it!

~ Wendi ~ xo

My Thoughts on Traditional Island Lighting

(via Pinterest)

I love the look of a beautiful light fixture (or two or three) above a kitchen island. There are so many design choices available to suit any decor style.

Below are just a few of my favorite options for island lighting in a traditional kitchen setting.

A double swag fixture with large drum shades looks simple and elegant.

(via Pinterest)

A single chandelier is the perfect compliment to a small center island.

(via House Beautiful)

Two matching chandeliers add a beautiful touch of glamour and sparkle.

(via House Beautiful)

A trio of classic, cage pendants look sharp and stylish in this family kitchen.

(Beckwith Interiors)

Timeless black lanterns are one of my favorite lighting options for a white kitchen.

(via BHG)

Another personal favorite of mine is the etched glass urn style light fixture.

(via Style at Home)

Glass bell jars offer an unobstructed view of the elegant cabinetry beyond.

(via BHG)

Simple glass orbs look lovely hung in triplicate above this stunning marble island.

(via Pinterest)

With so many striking options to choose from, it's easy to add your own personal sense of style with some beautiful island lighting.

What is your favorite type of island lighting?  I'd love to hear your thoughts!

My Thoughts on Marble Backsplashes

It's no secret that I LOVE a white kitchen.  White cabinetry, or a mix of white and dark wood, creates a classic look with timeless appeal.

A marble backsplash is a beautiful addition to a traditional white kitchen.  Here are just a few of my favorites.

Simple, white marble subway tiles are always in style.

I love the look of grey-toned marble with white cabinets and black counters.

A custom design inset above the range becomes a striking focal point.

This intricate pattern is a lovely complement to the understated, white cabinetry.

This marble was cut and installed to give the appearance of old brick.  I LOVE this!

Tiny subway tiles, laid in a herringbone pattern, reach from floor to ceiling.

A carerra marble countertop and backsplash makes an elegant design statement.

Your kitchen will never appear outdated when you combine classic white cabinetry with a beautiful marble backsplash.

Do you appreciate the look (real or imitation) of marble?  I'd love to hear your thoughts!

  

Timeless Design: Elegant White Kitchens

(via Pinterest)

Interior designers and homeowners agree that a white kitchen is TIMELESS in its appeal.

White kitchens always appear fresh and current.  They embrace all design styles, from sleek and modern to country casual.

I'm naturally drawn to white kitchens that imbue a sense of classic elegance.  Here are a few of my current favorites...

     

(via Pinterest)

(via Little Green Notebook)

(via Pinterest)

(Jessica Helgerson)

(Jillian Straky)

(via Pinterest)

(via Traditional Home)

(Matthew Quinn)

(Karen Williams)

(Thomas Paine)

I will always LOVE a classic WHITE KITCHEN.  Which of the above images speaks to your personal sense of style?

Open Concept Kitchens & Dining Rooms

via Decor Pad

In response to the continued demand for open concept living, the majority of new homes are  designed with a combination kitchen/dining room.

These floor plans are tailored to a relaxed and casual lifestyle, but they can also be decorated to suit those who prefer a more chic and sophisticated design scheme.

As illustrated in the following images, a white kitchen creates a wonderful backdrop for an elegant dining space.  Its classic aesthetic is conducive to a more formal setting, and makes the flow of the room appear naturally seamless.

Stacy Curran - South Shore Decorating

via Archzine

via Home Decorating and Staging

via Decor Pad

Kendall Wilkinson

via House Beautiful

via Conspicuous Style Interior Design Blog

via The Enchanted Home

via Suburban Style and Design

My Home

A simple, classic white kitchen and an adjoining dining space can be designed to function beautifully from morning coffee through to after-dinner drinks.

Create an environment that best suits your lifestyle, and transform your open concept space into the perfect setting for a well-lived life.

Unique and Inspiring Kitchen Island Ideas

My inspiration file is filled with images of white kitchens with islands.  I love the timeless elegance of a white kitchen, especially when a unique ISLAND is added into the design.

My own white kitchen is an example of the results that can be achieved when working with a very small budget.

We angled the ISLAND to aid in traffic flow, and add visual interest to the space.  The mahogany finish is repeated in the buffet and flooring, providing definition and contrast.   

White kitchens with dark islands continue to grow in popularity.  This ISLAND has a second sink and a cantilevered breakfast bar - practical choices for a busy family. 

A butcher block ISLAND is one possible option for a kitchen with a narrow footprint.  It serves as a convenient prep area, and provides extra storage for large bowls and cookware.

An L shaped island provides the backrest for this charming banquet, providing ample seating and work space in one pretty package.

This ISLAND is an unconventional alternative for those who love to host large dinner parties.  An additional counter surface during the day, it easily transforms into a fabulous buffet table in time for evening entertaining.

If space is limited, the kitchen table can function as extra work space between meals.   The upholstered dining chairs are an unexpected and sophisticated design choice, preventing the heavy table from appearing too utilitarian. 

When space isn't an issue, dual ISLANDS are the ultimate in luxury.  Different wood finishes provide contrast, while repeated details in the cabinetry create a cohesive flow throughout the room.

This kitchen also houses two ISLANDS.  The round serving table is creatively designed to appear like a standing piece of furniture, subtly echoing the curves found in the glass cabinet doors.  

The ISLAND is an opportunity to personalize and customize your space, and can be the difference between a pretty kitchen, and a pretty amazing kitchen!

What does your dream ISLAND look like?