Western Living Magazine
2026 Kitchen Design Tip #5: Make a Modern Kitchen Feel Original With Traditional Materials
2026 Kitchen Design Tip #4: Use Bulkheads to Cleverly Disguise Plumbing Systems
2026 Kitchen Design Tip #3: Embrace the U-Shaped Island for Entertaining
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Photos: The Western Living Design 25 Finalists Party
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Maker of the Year Winner Andrea Copp’s Local Favourites
A genius mix of materials from Reena Sotropa In House Design Group.
Designers Alanna Dunn and Reena Sotropa of Calgary-based Reena Sotropa In House Design Group know that all-white kitchens sometimes end up looking sterile: artfully mixing materials is key. We feel it helps add layers of texture and character into a space, says Dunn. It also works wonders at cozy-ing up large spaces.
The duo opted to lacquer this kitchens millwork in Benjamin Moores Chantilly Lace to match the walls and trim, while wrapping the hood fan and island in white oak to anchor the room with warmth and depth (the end-gables chevron detail repeats throughout the home). The perimeter counter and backsplash in veined quartzite effortlessly balance against the islands showstopping soapstone slab.
READ NEXT: More Expert Tips for a Beautiful and Functional Modern Kitchen
The editorial team at Western Living loves nothing more than a perfectly designed space, place or thing: and we’re here to tell you about it. Email us your pitches at [email protected].
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