KITCHEN APPLIANCES: BLACK RANGE

I've noticed a few kitchens with really beautiful, oversized black ranges and range hoods. They create a definitely focal point in a kitchen especially when they're in a kitchen with white cabinets or counters. I find they look striking and create a distinct style and the black range hood is a statement. Here are a few of my favourite looks. Often they are made by Viking, Bertazzoni and a few other brands. Love the shot of this actress in her gown cooking. I like the black and brass combination.

A more traditional kitchen.

It can also suit a much more modern kitchen.

Image source: 1: Domino magazine 2. Domaine Home 3 & 4. unknown

PEDESTAL SINKS & STORAGE IDEAS

Pedestal sinks might not be great for storage, but they make up for it in charm and character. I was happy I could re-use the original pedestal sink in my renovated and relocated bathroom (above). This one is quite old and very large, which makes it even more unique. Here are a couple of other bathrooms with pedestal sinks that also show where you can add some storage. You can add a large medicine cabinet on the wall, or even a bureau for all your storage requirements.

Storage on the wall.

Adding a dresser for more storage.

Or even a small shelf over the sink.

WHITE ROOMS WITH MOULDING DETAIL

I love the look of white moulding in a room. It adds so much character and architectural detail. Even in a very plain room this can be a way to bring it to life. Here are a few of my personal favourite pictures of this classic style.

LIGHT OR DARK FLOORS?

When you're doing a new hardwood floor, a big decision can be the exact colour of stain on the floors. I've done homes with dark floors and light – either choice can be beautiful. When I was working on my own place (above) I felt I wanted a light colour floor to keep the space open, airy and casual. Sometimes I find a lighter floor has a more casual feel. The floors in the image above are Nova Scotia milled maple with a clear coat of finish, it does naturally get darker over time. But here is another with dark floors. This was a custom stain, in quite a matte finish and I also loved the colour of these floors. I find each house is different so the decision can depend on a number of factors.

Here is a good example of how they can look side by side.

DOORS PAINTED BLACK

After the post on painted white floors yesterday, why not wrap up the week with a contrast – black doors! A set of doors or a single door painted black can add drama and impact to a room. I've painted my double doors black in my kitchen (above). These first two images were my inspiration for this.

I also love these two images of doors in black – beautiful!