Style at Home editor-in-chief Erin McLaughlin helps her sister renovate her kitchen into an ultra-stylish space.

If you’re Alexis McLaughlin, "hiring" your stylish sister – Style at Home editor-in-chief Erin McLaughlin – to overhaul the tired kitchen in your new home is a no-brainer. And when Alexis picked up the phone, Erin eagerly weighed in. In fact, according to Erin, the e-mails started flying back and forth almost before she hung up.

When it came to the look, Erin and Alexis agreed the space should evoke a modern elegance – a steamlined, contemporary design combined with beautiful, timeless accents. But with two young children, Alexis wanted the kitchen to be family friendly, as well as include lots of storage, top-notch appliances and a living space.
 

Stylish kitchen A once-tired kitchen is transformed into something wonderful. The open layout and new French doors visually expand the space.

Glass cabinets Alexis reaches for her matching white dinnerware, which looks clean and elegant behind glass cabinet doors.

Open shelving Alexis loves this small section of cantilevered shelves, reminiscent of one of her favourite features in her previous house.

Spacious island Erin advised Alexis and her husband, Hughes, to install a large island that could accommodate storage, as well as function as a table. The hand-blown "fishbowl" pendant lights add a dramatic, modern touch.

Streamlined appliances A great kitchen starts with good bones: appliances and millwork. Erin and Alexis chose the appliances for both form and function. To create a streamlined look throughout the space, they used the same Carrara marble for the countertop and backsplash.

Smart storage Shelves in the island hold frequently used dishes and echo the cantilevered shelves above the counter.

Sitting area The best part about having your sister decorate? Thoughtful touches: the two bamboo chairs are from Erin and Alexis's childhood home, and the artwork is by family friend Cybele Young.