A few years ago, I began considering Kitchen details for a house we were renovating. At the time, I wasn’t busy with work, so cooking was, and still is, a much-loved ritual and a way to unwind. Fast forward to today: I never seem to have the time to cook.

But having said that, I still find refuge in the kitchen. It makes me feel grounded and organized. And I love food…who doesn’t?

I thought I would share a few of my favorite “Chefy” kitchen details and why I love them so much.

#1

This is a very modest kitchen size-wise but has incredible pantry storage running on both sides of a long hallway. I like to use furniture in kitchen design, and this kitchen is somewhat “unfitted” in that the built-ins are hidden, and the table becomes the stand-out. I enjoy kitchen islands, but I love anything you can chop on, spill on and otherwise make a big mess on. Now we use this table not only as a work surface, but we love to eat here.

#2

Tile all the way up. If you can…do it. Tile is the best way to add texture to an otherwise plain surface.

#3

Add some shelves. Even if you are not a fan of open shelving, add just a few small shelves for collections and the items you use daily.

It can be a place for art, a small pot of greenery, or spices and herbs. Get creative and change your shelf displays often to keep it fresh and fun.

#4

Plan for sight-lines to other rooms. Many new homes now have the kitchen and family spaces all as one. I like this idea but I also don’t want to feel like I’m cooking in my living room. A little bit of separation can be a wonderful way to keep the cook and the kids happy

#5

Create a budget and try to stick with it. Changes are always inevitable in kitchen design but planning and sourcing as far ahead of time as possible is the key to a great finished room. That might just mean you buy a sink ( the great big huge one at 50% off) and let it sit in the garage for a year. When you see a great find trust your instincts and buy it.