A new kitchen is more than just a space for meal prep – it’s the heart of the home, a blank canvas awaiting your personal touch. Designing this space to reflect your lifestyle requires careful thought, as every choice impacts both function and aesthetics. When designing a model home, I always start with the kitchen, ensuring it anticipates the needs of future homeowners while highlighting its full potential as an efficient and stylish space.

Built-ins that impress

A cosy built-in banquette can instantly transform an underutilized corner or bare wall into a chic and versatile gathering spot. Beyond providing additional seating, it enhances the kitchen’s aesthetic and lends a custom feel to the room. For added practicality, consider integrating drawers or cupboards beneath the seat for extra storage.

Depending on your style preference, the millwork can blend seamlessly with the cabinetry or stand out as a striking contrast. Upholstered seating and decorative cushions in accent colors further personalize the space. Complete the setup with a dining table and chairs, then elevate the ambiance with a statement pendant light. To add a distinctive touch, display framed family photos or travel snapshots above the banquette.

Built-ins are also a game-changer in the dining room. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry along an empty wall adds storage without overwhelming the space. By incorporating glass doors – whether reeded, tinted or clear with mullions – these cabinets are transformed into elegant display cases, perfect for showcasing fine china, glassware or curated collections.

Another excellent placement for built-ins is flanking a fireplace. In a former model home, we recessed glass-fronted display cabinets on either side of the mantel, integrating storage and decorative shelving while adding warmth and character to the living area.

Fireplaces: A warm welcome in the kitchen

A fireplace in the kitchen? Absolutely. With today’s range of gas and electric options, adding one to your kitchen and dining area brings a wonderful sense of warmth and elegance. To maximize functionality, consider raising the fireplace insert above floor level and incorporating a built-in bench where the hearth would traditionally be. Not only does this provide extra seating, but it also creates a cosy focal point perfect for relaxed gatherings. The glow of a fireplace enhances both dining and social experiences, especially during cold Canadian winters!

A niche for coffee lovers

For those who savour their morning brew, a dedicated coffee nook adds an element that is well-appointed and efficient. This simple addition keeps everything organized, adding luxury to your daily ritual. Many kitchen manufacturers now offer accessories such as drawer inserts designed specifically for coffee pods, keeping essentials within easy reach while maintaining a clutter-free appearance.

Tip: Position your coffee station in an accessible spot; close enough for convenience, but away from main cooking zones to prevent congestion.

Investing in lighting: A bright idea

Lighting is one of the most impactful, and often underestimated, elements in kitchen design. In every model home I work on, lighting is never an afterthought; it’s a foundational design feature. If you’re purchasing a pre-construction home, take full advantage of opportunities to customize lighting placement; from ceiling fixtures to integrated ambient lighting within built-ins. Undermount lighting beneath upper cabinets not only elevates the aesthetic but also improves task visibility.

If pot lights are included in your purchase, be intentional about their placement. Layering light sources is important, and the addition of dimmer switches provides flexibility to adapt the mood throughout the day. It’s worth inquiring about adding pot lights as they’re a relatively low-cost upgrade that dramatically enhances the overall feel and usability of the space.

Tip: Treat light fixtures as an extension of your design. Whether you opt for glass, marble, metal or fabric elements, ensure your lighting choices complement your overall colour palette and decor style.

The finishing touches

A well-designed kitchen seamlessly combines style, functionality and personalization. From built-in banquettes and bespoke cabinetry to thoughtfully placed layered lighting and cosy fireplaces, every detail contributes to a home that’s both beautiful and practical.

Coming up next…

In my next column, we’ll turn our attention to bathrooms – spaces that offer endless opportunities for customization. Whether you dream of a spa-like retreat, a guest sanctuary or a chic yet functional powder room, I’ll guide you through the choices that bring your vision to life.