Kitchen Confidence – Renovation

The kitchen was a problem. Cramped, dated, and not functioning the way it should, it was an uncomfortable space that didn’t fit the needs of a family who enjoyed entertaining. The family called in Clarenville-based design pro Jamie Chaulk of Damon James Design to solve their problem.

Jamie urged the couple to go ahead with the house addition they were contemplating – it was really the only way to give them the kitchen and dining space they needed, says Jamie. Had he been limited by the existing space, the changes would look good but wouldn’t solve any of the real problems the kitchen had, he says.

Flow and function were the primary concerns when Jamie designed the new kitchen together with Christine Brown at NuWay Kitchens. As a designer, says Jamie, he’s all about functionality and practicality. The kitchen layout is the result of a back and forth between Jamie and the homeowners, with Jamie revising the plan until they had a layout that would help the homeowners make the most of their new kitchen. The microwave was placed in the island, the cabinet sizes and styles were configured for their intended uses, and work surfaces were placed where they would be most used.

The extension to the back of the house now holds the new kitchen, while the previous kitchen space is now a dining area with an eight-seat table ideal for dinner parties. A beverage fridge and counter area works as a serving station or bar area when dining.

Jamie chose white cabinets to create a bright space and used patterned tile backsplashes and stone countertops to create visual interest. Oversized lights with glass shades make a statement without obstructing sight lines.

The brightness and openness of the kitchen is carried through into the newly renovated living room, where Jamie used a similar colour palette to tie the spaces together.

A contrasting stained-oak built-in unit adds contrast in the living room while providing additional storage space.