Sep 9, 2015

Kitchen design: Classic Parisian charm

1 Create smoke and mirrors

While the mirrored wall framed within the cabinetry produces the illusion of more space on one side of the room, a collection of smaller vintage mirrors on this side mimics an artistic gallery display.

2 Go back to black

In the wake of go-to white kitchens, black is making a striking comeback. Here, slim, deep drawers offer organized storage for smaller items like flatware, utensils, spices and linens.

3 Have brass roots

Elegant yet convenient details, such as a brass-railed shelf for glasses and brass rods for hanging everyday pots, pans and dishcloths, lend an air of a fashionable French bistro.

4 Reach for the sky

Stacked glass-fronted floor-to-ceiling cabinetry accentuates the kitchen’s height and drives home the boulangerie look – especially when filled with delicious breads from Ontario-based Ace Bakery.

5 Add a touch of whimsy

This hanging bike pays homage to a favourite Parisian scene: commuters bringing home baguettes in the baskets of their bicycles. 6 Strike a balance The cooktop and range hood are intentionally centred with the island and its two sinks rather than with the ceiling-height cabinetry they sit between – a design move that reminds us of old Parisian restaurants. 7 Have a sinking feeling Two well-spaced sinks in the island mean many hands can simultaneously be hard at work in this kitchen, whether prepping, cooking, cleaning or just tasting. 8 Cast a hex Modern hexagonal cement-look porcelain floor tiles offer a stunning juxtaposition to the otherwise traditional space.