Premier Home Upgrades Inc. is a family owned and operated construction company, providing high-end kitchen and bathroom remodels throughout Southern Ontario since 2011. Specializing in custom carpentry and millwork, they offer expert installation, as well as quality craftmanship and attention to detail from the initial planning stages right through to the finishing touches.
Owner and Operator Airik Lenz and his team recently completed a stunning kitchen renovation in Orangeville, ON that helped their client to make the most out of their small kitchen space. “This old 1970’s house was closed off and choppy, with little storage and inadequate counter space. This was a space that was not very functional” says Airik. “Our team designed a new layout, removing all of the walls to accommodate a totally new, open concept space. Our clients now have a very large kitchen which includes an island with tons of storage and a spacious countertop for cooking and entertaining”.
Airik and his talented team of professionals completed this project in a little over 8 weeks, including removal of the walls and design/ construction of the kitchen. It is 100% custom built in maple hardwood and painted to spec in a stunning grey/blue that gives it a fresh, modern appeal that is eye-catching without being overpowering. “We wanted something that would be timeless and understated, but that would still give you that ‘wow” factor when you walk into the space”, says Lenz. “Removing all of the walls posed a bit of a challenge, so we used an engineered beam utilizing modern techniques and materials to accommodate the new design”.
It is not just the striking cabinetry that makes this kitchen spectacular. There are many things that make preparing meals and entertaining in this kitchen so appealing. It is extremely well thought out and meticulously planned, incorporating a wide array of hidden storage concepts and unique features that make it easy to work in and difficult not to envy. In addition to the usual features such as soft-close cabinets and creative storage solutions, the wine cabinet with glass display, under counter microwave and abundance of storage in the oversized kitchen island make this space an entertainer’s delight. “There are so many creative design and organizational options today that can help to make even the smallest kitchen more functional” says Airik. “The possibilities are endless – if you can imagine it we can design and create it”.
The Premier Kitchens design team offered some valuable tips to help make the most of a smaller kitchen space.
LIGHT UP YOUR LIFE
Lighting is key to any kitchen design, but especially when you are working with space restrictions. Under cabinet LED’s, shelf lighting and over-island pendulum lighting as well as strategically placed pot lights can improve your workspace and make the kitchen feel bright and open.
ORGANIZE
Concealed storage offers many opportunities to organize your kitchen and can streamline your space, giving it added visual appeal. Bench seating with storage, hidden garbage and recycling bins, shelf risers, built in slot storage, and pantry drawers are just a few of the available options.
HIDDEN APPLIANCES
Hiding your fridge and/or dishwasher with cabinetry can create a streamlined look in a small space. It not only looks fabulous, it also keeps those appliances clean and fingerprint free!
CREATE PREP SPACE
Working in small spaces is never easy, especially for keen home chefs and avid entertainers. Adding a kitchen island, either permanent or movable can create valuable prep space and additional storage solutions.
USE COLOUR WISELY
Darker colours in a small room can make your space feel even smaller and closed-in, while lighter colours can make it feel open and airy. Large windows and ample lighting can make all the difference, but if this is not an option due to space restrictions, keep your colour choices on the lighter side and consider adding a mirrored backsplash or well-placed wall mirror to make your space feel larger.
GEOMETRIC PATTERNS
Patterns are a popular design trend and show no sign of going away. Using geometric patterned floor tiles or in your décor theme, or installing a white subway tile backsplash with darker grout can give the illusion of a larger space by drawing attention vertically. Be careful not to go overboard as too many different patterns can make your space look small or cluttered
BE CREATIVE
Utilize vertical storage options such as open shelving, over island pot racks, mug hooks and magnetized knife holders to store smaller items and create interest. There are so many creative solutions available so don’t be afraid to explore your options!
Choosing a contractor who is an expert in kitchen renovations can help you to avoid costly mistakes and post-renovation regret. A good kitchen remodel/renovation can give you 80-100% return on your investment in the long run, so it pays not to cut corners. A professional designer can help to maximize your square footage, and create a beautiful, inspired space that you can enjoy for many years to come.
Premier Home Upgrades Inc. is based in Halton Hills, Ontario and serves clients throughout Southern Ontario. They pride themselves on exceptional design and craftsmanship, competitive pricing and defined timelines and they offer a quality guarantee on all of their work. Please visit their website at www.premierhomeupgrades.ca or call Airik Lenz for more information at 647-965-1690.
WRITTEN BY: TANYA BOTTOMLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY: PAUL SPEARS
RESOURCES: PREMIER HOME UPGRADES INC.
