Design Notes
The kitchen plays a central role in the home. It is a place where we come together to enjoy food and conversation. Designing this space involves multiple considerations, including the features to include, such as pull-outs and utensil drawers. There are also certain design features that transform an ordinary kitchen into the heart of the home, such as the choice of wood for the cabinets or the type of countertop material. Personalizing your space with the features that you love is what transforms your kitchen into the favorite gathering place for everyone. There are numerous ways to achieve the look you love, but we will focus on some of the more popular features in the kitchen. Let’s see what they are and how they might be used in your upcoming renovation.
Pull-out drawers
This feature remains a popular one, along with roll-outs, since it provides the perfect solution to storage needs for people of all ages. The younger members of your family can quickly pull out a snack and see all their options in one easy movement. For the more mature, it lets them see what they need without having to get down on the floor to pull out every item to get to what they want. Pull-outs are suitable for lower cabinets as well as pantries, accommodating a wide variety of needs, including food items, pots and pans, dishes, and more. A favorite is, of course, the pull-out spice rack, which lets them reach any spice with ease. Traditionally, they are located near the stove since that is where they will be used most. These pull-outs are not limited to spices, but also include baking materials and large utensils, such as spatulas and ladles. Some homeowners and designers have gotten creative by using a pull-out to store all their cleaning supplies, which solves the problem of a messy kitchen sink cabinet. Our designers have completed multiple projects using pull-outs and our clients love them.
Larder cabinet
Food storage is a priority in the kitchen. After all, where would we keep all the ingredients for those amazing meals? Traditional cabinets are great for storing dishes, pots, pans, platters, and the always-important food containers, but not necessarily for cans, flour, sugar, and boxed pasta. This is where a larder cabinet matters. It is a cabinet, typically full-height, dedicated solely to various food items. It can be free-standing or incorporated into the cabinet design, a favorite choice for our clients. Because they are shielded from the sun’s rays, these spaces make them perfect for storing items in a cool, dry environment. A larder cabinet can also be fitted with roll-outs, making it super simple to keep track of everything you have, which reduces food waste. Even if you have a pantry, having a larder cabinet gives you the ability to separate your items, such as canned goods and dry ingredients, from others like snacks and bagged items. Our experienced team at Greenbrook Design can help you create just the right size and style for your kitchen.
Drop in front apron sink
The kitchen sink is a staple for your design as it is where food is rinsed, hands are washed, and dishes cleaned. For many years, there were limited options for the sink, but now companies are offering a wide variety of styles and sizes. The farmhouse design has remained a beautiful choice for many homeowners who love the calm and charming vibes provided by it. This style brings back the classic drop-in front apron sink, but it is not limited to white. Stainless steel as well as porcelain, natural stone, and even copper. They are a beautiful touch to your home and bring unique character to the space as well. Plus, they add a little hint of Fixer Upper to your home!
Quarter sawn white oak cabinets
These are not your mom’s oak cabinets. Quarter-sawn white oak is a trending material for kitchen cabinet design. It is a stunning choice, with elegant grain lines that add significant texture and visual interest to the kitchen. The soft color scheme is another plus as it immediately lightens and brightens a space. It can also complement a wide variety of design styles, including farmhouse and traditional, as well as materials such as glass and metal. Quarter-sawn white oak is a good choice for two-toned kitchens, which remain a popular trend. Opting for painted perimeter cabinets and a quarter-sawn white oak island makes a dramatic statement that will be loved by all. Browse places like Pinterest and Houzz for inspiration.
Under cabinet lighting
Lighting is crucial in areas like the kitchen, which are typically task-oriented spaces. Under-cabinet lighting, often referred to as task lighting, makes it easier and even safer to complete chores like cutting food and cooking meals because shadows are minimized. Homeowners are realizing the value of incorporating these features into their kitchen renovation projects. Under-cabinet lighting works well in the evening too, as a soft light option, meaning you can find what you need and move around easily without having to turn on those bright lights. Be sure to discuss with your designer the possibility of including them in your upcoming project.
Gentle spray kitchen faucet
We know the kitchen sink matters, but so does the faucet. More homeowners are opting for a gentle spray kitchen faucet option which minimizes splashes and works well when rinsing dishes and food. As it is used throughout the day for a wide variety of tasks, having a gentle spray option is great for kids and those who enjoy cooking. Manufacturers have created various styles and finishes to accommodate customers’ demands, so you should have no problem finding one you like. There are also several models that come equipped with smart features, such as touch buttons and different faucet widths. Find the one you love for your kitchen sink.
Nature inspired quartz surfacing and veined
Countertops are considered the workhorses of the kitchen, as everything from food preparation to family gatherings is done on and around them. Nature-inspired design is a significant trend this year, and its influence is extending to countertop choices as homeowners seek beautiful veins that resemble natural or organic patterns. Quartz is currently one of the top options, particularly since it is both durable and low-maintenance. Neutral colors inspired by nature are also trending, as are textures, such as matte surfaces. These options also work well with multiple design styles and layouts, making them a versatile piece in the final outcome. Your designer will know where to look and what to recommend based on your personal preferences and layout.
Walker Woodworking The kitchen sink has often been used to describe someone who packs everything they can think of when going on a trip, but in reality, it is a vital part of the kitchen and one of the most frequently used elements. It’s how we maintain a clean environment as we wash our hands, food, countertops, and dirty dishes. Our entire meal prep revolves around the sink since it is where most of the food is cut and prepared to be turned into a delicious dish for the family, and all the pots are filled. With so much happening around the sink, and it fulfills many roles, the type you choose is important. It should have the capacity to do everything needed in one easy design, which is why Greenbrook Design is proud to be a dealer for the Galley Workstation, a company that has reinvented the sink. Let’s talk about what it is and why you should choose it for your new kitchen sink.
Home is more than just a place to prepare for the next day, to sleep at night, and to eat your meals. It is a place where memories are made. It is where you can take a break from your routine and do something fun with your family. While everyone enjoys gathering in the kitchen, it is not the most ideal area of the home to play a board game or watch a movie. Many homeowners enjoy the idea of having a separate area where the kids can play, or they can host a Super Bowl party. Carving out a place in the home dedicated to just fun is a great way to enjoy family time without worrying about making a mess. Let’s talk about some ways to build your home for entertainment.
Walker WoodworkingThe kitchen is the center of the home, which means it should be given good consideration when planning its layout. This is especially true when it comes to cabinet design. Closed, glass front, and open shelving are the options available for kitchen cabinets. Open shelving has become a popular choice with homeowners and designers alike due to the elegance and style it brings to the kitchen. Let’s talk about the benefits it can bring to your home and some helpful design tips.
Walker Woodworking The bathroom plays a key role in everyone’s morning routine, but more specifically, the bathroom vanity. It’s the place where the kids go to brush their teeth, fix their hair, and where all the necessities are stored. They can also maximize limited space and give you the storage you need, but how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s explore some of the common questions about bathroom vanities to help you find the perfect one.
Greenbrook DesignEnvironmentally friendly products are trending, and that includes the design world. More and more homeowners are looking for ways to lessen their carbon footprint, and companies have risen to the task by providing a large selection of products. Our showroom offers a variety of products sourced through multiple companies that allow you to get exactly what you need for your home while keeping Mother Nature safe. Let’s talk about some of the latest sustainable design trends that are now available to you and your family.
Walker Woodworking
Walker Woodworking