2 minute read
Modern family
by ERIN FEASBY AND CINDY BLEEKS • photos ANGUS FERGUSSON
It’s all about balance in this multi-purpose kitchen brimming with personality
What makes a great kitchen? We believe it should be equal parts personality and functionality, with lots of storage to spare. This unique three-in-one kitchen, dining and entertaining space is an open-concept, family-friendly oasis ideal for modern living.
Inspired by the homeowner’s charming collections, we set about creating an 800-sq.-ft. liveable main-floor space which would incorporate the family’s eclectic finds and a streamlined design in each of the three defined zones.
With a sightline running directly from the front foyer straight through the kitchen to the back of the house, we needed to think about creating a cohesive design flow. To achieve that, we placed a 10-ft.-long island to anchor the space – this separated the functional cooking zone from the prep area. The island also doubles as an informal eating area ideal for weekday dinners and schoolwork. Topping the island is a white marble counter with subtle grey veining – something the homeowners welcomed the opportunity to invest in.
Inspired
Best friends Erin Feasby and Cindy Bleeks founded Feasby & Bleeks Design in 2009 as a fullservice interior design firm. Renowned for creating comfortable and contemporary spaces that are as family-friendly as they are sophisticated, Feasby & Bleeks Design is a luxury brand and sought-after household name. feasbyandbleeks.com
An oversized tufted banquette upholstered in a rich olive green cotton velvet elevates the eat-in kitchen to a proper dining space that can host large family dinners, while still being practical. The custom wood dining table was designed with that same level of practicality, while also picking up the welcoming, warm tones seen throughout the space.
Brass cabinetry hardware and lighting punctuate the space with that same warmth, as light layers illuminate from recessed, sconce and task lighting. A unique single pendant over the island complements the look with a contemporary sensibility.
What sets this project apart from other open-concept kitchens and living and dining spaces is the extension of the kitchen and dining area through an open bar and servery area. This extension was specifically designed for cocktail parties, buffet-style entertaining or an at-home workspace. It’s a bright and useable area thanks to windows allowing natural light to pour in. We strategically used Farrow & Ball’s Off Black paint colour on the lower cabinetry in the bar area along with a high, glass-front storage cabinet, which provides a zone separation between the dining area and the bar itself.
Designed to evoke a lived-in feeling while giving homeowners much-needed storage for pantry items, countertop appliances, and serving pieces, the classic contrast between dark accents and the generous use of white provides the perfect balance of aesthetics and efficiencies. The result is a custom multipurpose family space that is comfortably contemporary.
