Words by Michelle Heslop. Photography by Jody Beck.
Armed with a binder of inspiration images, the design-savvy homeowner of this mid-1990’s Metchosin home knew exactly what elements she needed to create a kitchen that would function as the heart of their home. Topping her wishlist of requirements was an open-concept farmhouse feel with an inviting central island in the kitchen where guests could gather at one of her many dinner parties. She turned to David Nykl of NYKL Contracting to transform the home’s burgundy colour palette and enclosed kitchen into a bright and airy space that was functional for entertaining.
“In an open-concept space, flow is always the most important design element to start with,” says Nykl, who adds that depending on how the owners want to use the space, the flow will impact how the space functions and feels. An unobstructed connection to the large deck was also essential to the homeowners to foster an accessible indoor/outdoor feel.
The well-appointed kitchen enjoys shaker-style cabinetry, top-of-the-line appliances that include two concealed dishwashers, built-in Sharpe microwave drawer, AGA coffee machine and station, and 47” AGA gas stove, and a concealed pantry. Herringbone tile in matte white with contrasting grout creates visual impact. Hickory flooring throughout ties the main floor together and lends itself to the authentic farmhouse feel while the white cabinets with black hardware and LG Karis quartz countertops add a hit of high contrast.
The five-seater island in black hickory with waterfall quartz countertops houses the bar fridge for accessibility to the living area. The multifunctional island boasts soft close drawers, customized storage capabilities, and a concealed charging station. “We custom built a steel frame to support the handmade rustic wood box to house the three pendant lights over the island,” says Nykl.
Together with Nykl, the homeowner pulled together a light-filled kitchen with high-contrast materials and concealed appliances for a relaxed farmhouse vibe that is now the heart of the home. “Tackling this reno was a positive experience overall, the owners are very happy with the result and can now comfortably entertain in their space,” concludes Nykl.
