Where have all the uppers gone?

I have been noticing a detail that I like more and more each time I see it...no upper cabinets in the kitchen.

I hear you say: "Whatever, that's completely not practical," or "such a waste of a space". But, you would be surprised how clever storage planning can provide a home for everything you need. I'd like to see more exposed shelves or windows instead of walls of upper cabinetry (*glass inserts are also a good option for those of you with cold feet). You might as well display your pretty glassware and dishes, even if they are mismatched.

 images via my "Kitchens" board on Pinterest.

Kitchen Islands

My parents are planning to renovate their kitchen that has not been touched since 1981. I was with them last weekend and provided my input [whether they liked it or not].

One element they are looking to change is the kitchen island. Right now it's a square and there is seating on both sides. They want to make it more narrow and change the seating arrangement.

I'm going to point out the details I like and dedicate this blog to my parents. Everyone needs a visual!

Below: I like the detail under the sink.

Lighting layout: all pendants are not directly over the island. Interesting.

The cabinet doors under the island are similar to what you have for your spices and pans- if you still need the storage space.

The glass fronts keep a dark kitchen feeling light.

*Notice the backsplash and microwave placement in the photo below*

This is more traditional than your liking, but you'll have a similar layout

I am obsessed with this kitchen and those hicks pendants- glass front cabinets flanking the hood keeps the kitchen feeling open and light.

Note the backsplash and countertop.

Since I cannot sit in the same room with you as you plan, I hope this helps.

History Repeating.

If only I knew about these retro under counter refrigerator's when we renovated our kitchen. Perhaps I can trade in our beverage fridge for this pink or blue one?

This cottage, featured in Coastal Living-with-the-pink-fridge, made a big impression on me.

This looks great as well...

Do you think you need a second home for all the fun things like painted stairs, pink refrigerators and bunk beds? I used to, but I'm beginning to believe you don't need to separate time and place to enjoy the snazzy stoves or funky fridges.

More photos of colorful appliances here

Kitchens on my brain.

I've been helping with a kitchen renovation, the best kind of renovation if you ask me.

It's for a home that was built in the 70's, and the clients want a dash of modern.

I'll share some images I've been studying.

Most images via Canadian House and Home with some Phoebe Howard in the mix (and others I cannot remember, sorry!)

Ways to break up a Dominating White Kitchen

I've been giving our kitchen serious thought as my desires are leaning towards white cabinets, subway white tile backsplash and marble countertops. In the pictures below are some ways to add little splashes to keep the room from looking mundane.

All glass fronts would be hard to hide our Gordos and FSU plastic cups, but I love the painted blue.

Tall ceilings make everything better. Open shelves-also a wonderful remedy, but not for me.

Last (and my favorite): copper hood, tan paint and brown roman shades. perfection. (by erika powell)

I'm out.

Renovation is more detailed than wedding planning

I love details. I like having 100 bases to cover and remaining stress free throughout the process. This is a strength of mine and I pride myself in this attribute. In general, it takes a lot to rattle me. For example: planning the wedding. What a breeze. We had a five month engagement and we could have done it in three. (A special thanks to my Mom, Dad, Diane and Tiffany). Okay Okay, I'll stop complimenting myself and let you know how much I am learning about the increasing details that are required to renovate. I am juggling trying to please the husband (who ultimately trusts my decisions), make my selections "re-sellable" to your average Joe (i.e. do marble countertops scare everyone or just the OCD and those who don't find them as stunning as I do?) and narrow down the many styles that I am drawn to into a classic kitchen.
In the pictures above, the subway tiles on the backsplash are popping out to me. Also, in the last picture the countertop (I believe it's a quartz) is the first example I've seen that I could live with. I'm also loving the drop in cooktop and the glass inserts on the cabinets.

Marble Countertops

Countertops is the one part of this renovation that has me stumped. I've been wanting something without bold variation in the color palette. There is no perfect countertop, which is great because I can't keep my house perfect anyways.

What I do know is: I love that marble back splash and what better choice than a marble countertop to maintain unity throughout the design? It has been said that marble is soft and likely to be stained and nicked. Here is a man who has done thorough research/testing of marble. (here is more info on countertop pros and cons)

Like I said, our home was built in the 1940's and I find it very fitting for white cabinets and marble countertops. The husband thinks its too formal. This this might be a general male preference like labs over chihuahuas's; steak over tofu; flat screen tv purchase before the couch or a football game over a j.mayer concert. ( I would also take a lab and steak over the options I gave and my husband does endure those concerts with me)

“White marble is still the most requested kitchen countertop material, although clients are now using marbles in other colors as well.” —Matthew Quinn from Atlanta Home Magazine