This kitchen€™s handmade blue tile is the star of the culinary show, but never borders on overbearing. €œWe wanted something €˜pretty€™ to play against the steel, concrete and wood in a cool colour tone,€ says New Westminster, B.C.-based Randy Bens of Randy Bens Architect.

The overall palette focuses on lighter shades in only a few tones and textures€”kitchen uppers and towers in soft grey, base cabinets in rift-cut white oak, white counters with subtle veining€”which all work in concert to make the room feel larger. €œIt€™s also filled with light so the neutral palette allows for a mix of existing and new furnishings,€ says Bens.

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