was being wasted . The new layout offers functionality the homeowners will actually use !
CREATIVE BUDGET-FRIENDLY TOUCHES
Where possible , using items you have and updating existing ones that are well placed and functional is a great way to save a little in the budget . This home had existing storage in the hallway , connected to the kitchen which was actually well used and so this feature was kept . Instead of creating new cabinets , Belynda re-faced the existing doors to blend in perfectly with the rest of the kitchen . She used wood shelving that matched the wood floors to break up the white and bring more warmth into the space . The homeowner happened to have the perfect cream plates tucked away in the basement , just waiting to be displayed so instead of buying something decorative , what previously lived in storage now has its own space to shine .
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
Don ’ t be afraid to explore new uses for existing spaces ! One of the features in this kitchen is a big island with the capacity to host a large group of people , sitting around , taking part in the preparation ( or consumption ) of the next feast ! In the old layout , the kitchen table , attached to the island had to be removed to make space for a 10 foot long island . The designer encouraged them to use the dining room , adjacent to the kitchen , for more seating . It took a bit of convincing to get the homeowners to see the potential of maximizing the proximity between the kitchen and dining room . Being attached to the traditional idea of a kitchen table , would have overcrowded the newly extended island . Since the dining room is directly adjacent to the kitchen , Belynda helped them see the potential new use of a familiar space . Perhaps traditions could be forged , like using the dining room as a new hub to eat together as a family on a Sunday afternoon !
The pandemic has brought us the opportunity to review how , where , and when we do things . Many people have become interested in creating separate , boundaries spaces in the home : moving our “ office ” away from the kitchen table , to a room that was previously used for storage ; using the dining room as a place to meet for a glass of wine in lieu of going to a bar ! We often have spaces in our homes that aren ’ t being used on a regular basis , or to their fullest potential . It just takes flexible thinking , a little bit of encouragement , and some creativity to expand how we see and live fully into the possibilities of our home .
Space Designed by Belynda Chen www . belyndacheninteriors . com Photography by Heidi Lau www . heidilau . com
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