Kitchen Design Secrets Revealed

Food tastes better when it’s made in a pretty space. Now there’s no official study backing that statement, so you’re just going to have to trust us. But have no fear: You, too, can get a gorgeous look. Kitchen designer Cyndy Cantley of Birmingham shows us a makeover project that’s near and dear to her heart―her very own kitchen.

Cyndy opened up the space by using a galley-style layout. With no island, it’s less crowded when she’s entertaining. At the far end of the kitchen, a pair of floor-to-ceiling cabinets flanks a cozy breakfast nook. The top of each cabinet features shirred yellow-and-white fabric panels. The material provides color and hides the hardworking space behind. One cabinet houses the microwave and pantry, and the other keeps baking essentials organized in one place.

A grid of inexpensive botanical prints provides pattern and color. The antique bell jar chandelier is the perfect size to hang above the petite breakfast nook.

Keep the major components neutral, and the look will be timeless. Creamy white cabinets and travertine floors create a soft palette here. The countertops are Calcutta Gold marble, featuring big veins in gray and taupe shades.

Appliances usually take up most of the budget, followed by cabinets and surfaces. Cyndy loves to cook and entertain, so appliances ranked first on her list. But keep in mind, if you’re not a whiz in the kitchen, there’s no need for top-of-the-line appliances.

To make the cooktop more of a focal point, Cyndy inset terra-cotta tiles into the field of subway tiles above.