Putting on a Front

Its really hard for me to pick favorites, but I think I can safely say that Kitchens are high up on my list of most-loved spaces to design.  Whether it is new construction or a remodel, it is a chance to make the heart of the home a functional, timeless, unique space that the Homeowner can enjoy everyday.  I am working with a new client now on a kitchen remodel (very excited and I promise Before & Afters once we are done) and we are at the preliminary stages of making sure the layout is perfect for how they function.  They have a great island that is one of the first things you see when you walk into the space – Which means a perfect focal point for an Apron Front sink (also on my favorite list)!!

Here are a few inspirations I pulled together to kick off the new kitchen!

This is a great farmhouse style kitchen, with beautiful paneled walls and a soap stone farm sink.  I love the tone on tone color palette where the walls, shelves, and cabinets are all the same color.  It blends so beautifully

(Source Unknown…Apologies)

This is a great remodel shot.  The homeowner deleted some upper cabinetry and added floating shelves, as well as an Apron Front sink. The Mahogany butcher block top really adds some warmth to the clean white space.

(Better Homes and Gardens, July/Aug 2007)

Although the angle of this picture does not spotlight the apron style sink, I think it is a great application.  I also love the use of the antique pastry table as an island – Perfect solution for a narrow kitchen.

(Kitchen and Bath Ideas, July/Aug 2005)

As seen in House Beautiful (Feb 2010), Amy Neunsinger’s personal kitchen, is a great example of how a apron front sink can steal the show!  Oh how I would love that sink to have for flower arranging or just everyday use!

(Amy Neunsinger)

I will follow up tomorrow with a list of different apron style sinks that you may enjoy!! There are so many different styles and materials available now, so you will have to check back tomorrow to pick your favorite…

Enjoy your day!

Revamped Vanities

So hear we are Friday already, this week has really flown by! I was out of town yesterday busy working with a new client on a potential model!  As I was digging through all sorts of inventory, trying to finagle what could be reused, revamped, repainted, etc I started to think about how so many things can be recreated into “New” special pieces, if you are willing to do the work!  I also thought that since I stared this week off with a post on fun finds from Scott’s Antique Market I would post some unique bathroom images I have collected in the “Style Files!”  I love turning bathrooms into a whimsical, somewhat outlandish retreats…when you can add a recycled element, even better!


This is a great shot (although I expect nothing less from Anthropologie!) Here is a very simple, table rejuvenated as a vanity.  I also love the clever way they accessorized below to hide the plumbing.(Anthropologie)


I absolutely love this idea! These two unique looking consoles began their journey as one table.  They were cut in half, and became two freestanding bath consoles that were attached to the wall using french cleats.  Brilliant! I also love how they coordinated the P-trap with the faucet finish.  This is a small detail that makes a HUGE difference.  The standard white plumbing P-trap would have really detracted from the overall look.
(Better Homes and Gardens, Summer 2008)

So this has been one of my favorite powder baths of all time! The image I had is super tiny which I cut out of a magazine sometime ago, hence the poor scan quality, however the inspiration quality is huge and I swear I will use this application in someones home soon…. Can it please be yours? Antique mirrors are very popular right now and you can find them all over.  What a clever way to add character and make a very small space (4′ x 5′) feel much larger!(Apologies,  Source unknown)

I am not a fan of mopping, and would much prefer to use an old pail this way!!(European Homes & Gardens)

This is a great use of an old farm table – The same application could work with just about any console style table if you have the length!  I think it is great that it extends in front of the window.(Apologies, Source unknown)

Here is a few thoughts before you start your rejuvenation project!
1. If you are working with a chest of drawers, make sure the actual frame of the piece is sturdy enough without the drawers in it.  Sometimes having the solid drawers in it is what holding the life in the chest, if you start cutting and reworking the framework, it may not be sturdy enough in the long run.
2.  Check you local codes.  Many times on new construction homes, they will not allow a unique, found object to be used as a sink.  Certain counties require certification for the inspector to approve.  Just be aware and don’t be disappointed if you had your heart set on using the mop pail!

Enjoy the weekend!