Final Look at Summer Duck

When a project comes to an end, it's always bitter sweet for me.  I love my work and my clients, so it's hard to say "good-bye".  Summer Duck was one of those projects where I had the best clients who trusted me to guide them through the difficult task of building a new house.  What's even better, they trusted themselves to make some gutsy decisions and pushed through to get them done.  I was able to get over one last time before they moved in and of course, the painters were still there doing last minute touch-ups.  I really wanted to have this house professionally photographed, but it just didn't work out.

This entry foyer is a perfect example of what this room should do.  It welcomes you and gives you a preview of what is to come in this home.

The perfect powder bath.  My client found a cute antique cabinet to use as the vanity.  Just needs a mirror to complement that chicken wire light!

I just don't have the words to describe how wonderful this kitchen turned out.

Farmhouse sink with Torquay counters by Cambria. 

My client and I spent a lot of time finding the perfect lights.  Here is one of three vintage ones she found over the summer. 

The family entry, off the garage, with interior brick pavers and board and batten trim.

Here's a laundry room that took a little effort, but so worth it.  Yes, that light is red!

For the sink, my client found a metal tub and paired it with a wall-mount tub filler.  Genius!

Master bath with wood floors.  My first time doing this on a project and so happy with how it turned out.  With just a little extra care, these should last for years to come.

Another vintage light...

Their son's bathroom turned out so great!  Vintage hexagon tile on the floor, white subway tile in the tub and a blue cabinet. 

In my last post about Summer Duck, I promised there would be a red front door.  This is the best photo I could get of that for you.  Oh, and here's the last vintage light. 

You can see more photos of Summer Duck on my Houzz profile and I can't wait to share more projects with you after the new year.  I wish you and yours a safe and joyous holiday.  We will continue to cherish our time with family and do our best to remember the real meaning of Christmas!

Decorating 101 - White Kitchen Updates

In this series, I answer your questions.  I try to pick ones that would be the most helpful, to the most people.  If you have a design dilemma or question, please send it to me.  I would love to help you!

The Question...

I have a super plain kitchen.  White cabinets, white appliances, light colored tile floors and these really bad laminate countertops.  What do you suggest I do (short of a total reno) to give it some personality?

The Answer...
White cabinets are classic and as long as the layout is still functional for you, then I would definitely suggest keeping those as is.  If your hardware is a little plain, then change it out.  This is a super easy and inexpensive way to update your cabinets.  If you have an island, think about changing the finish on just that piece.  Or if you have room, add an island.

from eKitchenIslands

As your appliances begin to die on you, then I would think about changing them out to stainless steel.  This will give you a more modern feel and help break up all that white.

Stainless steel appliances...from Houzz

Changing the flooring is a big expense, not to mention a hassle.  If you can stand to live with what you have then think about just using colorful rugs to break it up.  I've found some amazing rugs at TJ Maxx and World Market that were an amazing bargain.  I'd suggest using a jute rug as they are super easy to clean.  You can also use an outdoor rug in a kitchen.

from Layla Grace

The one big investment I would definitely consider would be changing out your countertops.  That alone would give your kitchen a huge update as well as increase the overall value of your home.  I would also suggest adding a tile backsplash at the same time or soon after replacing your tops.  Not only will that give you another place to bring in some pattern, but it's functional as well. 

from Better Homes and Gardens

Finally, the best way to give your kitchen "personality" is by adding window treatments, furniture and accessories.  If you have a place for them, barstools can add much needed color to neutral space.  Find some with upholstered seats and cover them with fun, colorful fabric.   

Colorful roman shade above the sink...from Houzz

Amazing red barstools and other red accessories...from Houzz

Fabric slipcovered barstools...from Vignette Design

Do you have a design question?  Please send it, along with some photos, to Jennifer@JenniferTaylorDesign.com.  

Thanks for reading,
Jennifer