Page 18 - Forest HIll June 2025

Cooking Up A
Well Designed Kitchen
A great kitchen has many key elements: thoughtful planning, functional layout, solid materials, organized storage, and aesthetic appeal. is is especially important for the family kitchen, which is often the hardest- working room in the house. Over the years, I’ve learned a few lessons to ensure how to create a kitchen that is both stylish and functional.
By DOROTHY TSUI
When renovating, the floor plan should be your main priority. Think about how you intend to use the space. A kitchen should blend seamlessly into your lifestyle. Are you a passionate home chef, or do you prefer to bond with family while cooking? Perhaps you host regular gatherings or need extra space for homework. Open-concept layouts can be great for maximizing space. Eliminating walls creates a more fluid, inviting atmosphere. To make an open layout work, maintain consistency across the kitchen, dining, and living areas. A cohesive material and color palette, along with continuous flooring, can visually expand the space and make it feel connected.
Adding an island transforms a kitchen into a multifunctional space. It serves as an excellent food prep area and doubles as a dining or entertaining space, reducing the need for a separate kitchen table. With an island, you free up room for other essentials while keeping the flow between the kitchen and living areas.
Storage is essential in the kitchen. A well- organized kitchen makes it easier to keep the entire home clutter-free. Plan your storage systems carefully. I often combine open shelving and closed cabinets within my designs for functionality and style. Add custom cabinets and extend them to the ceiling to provide extra storage and a dramatic design element.
Kitchens are a large investment, so keep major components like countertops, cabinets, and appliances neutral. Neutral doesn’t mean boring—accessories like lighting, hardware, and small appliances can keep the look on trend. A classic black-and-white palette, for example, is timeless and sophisticated. Lighting is another essential element of great kitchen design. It’s not just functional; it can also make a design statement. Use layers of lighting— ambient, task, and accent lighting—to create a practical and beautiful space. Install dimmers for better control over the atmosphere, and hang pendant lights or chandeliers about three feet above a counter or table.
Awell-designed kitchen simplifies daily routines, boosts productivity, and provides a space for family to gather. If your kitchen isn’t working as efficiently or effectively as it could, it may be time to rethink its layout and functionality.
Consider partnering with a designer like myself who can help you optimize your space, ensuring it meets your needs while remaining stylish and functional for years ahead.
Dorothy Tsui is the co-founder and Creative Director of Bobeche Interiors, a boutique residential design firm based in Markham, Ontario. The firm specializes in full-service residential design with particular expertise in modern kitchen design.
bobecheinteriors.com @bobecheinteriors
18 FOREST HILL Lifestyle June 2025