Condo kitchen: Funky, not clunky

A basic black, white and wood color scheme contrasts with colorful backsplash accent tiles and varied wall paint colors to give a fun, updated look to this row condo kitchen. Fun and funky details, like open portholes to the basement staircase, add playfulness.

Also included in the design is an eating area for two, small appliance storage, full-size appliances and more counter space. Since the existing kitchen was small, it couldnt be expanded. The designers faced several obstacles including a staircase bulkhead projecting into the room, an open wall and a railing to the upper staircase.

The open wall and railing were closed in, and the wall to the dining room was opened to visually increase the space and to provide natural light and a view of the garden. The small portion of the wall that remains accommodates an alcove for a built-in refrigerator. The sink wall countertop was deepened to allow the staircase bulkhead to be built in and hidden by false door cabinet panels.

This solution also opened space for deeper upper cabinetry and a flush microwave. The centered curved hood range is topped with a soffit that houses ducting to the exterior. The peninsula doubles as a work surface and an eating counter.

This kitchen earned a first-place award in the small kitchen category of the National Kitchen and Bath Association's 2003 Design Competition

Designers: Erica Westeroth, CKD; Tim Scott XTC Design Inc.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Photography: Donna Griffith Photography