Kitchens

2023 Kitchen Design Tip 3: Mix Beautiful and Durable Surfaces

Pretty and practical (you can have it all): that's the mantra in this Yaletown kitchen designed by Atmosphere Interior Design.

By Western Living /
Eymeric Widling

Pre-renovation, this kitchen in Vancouver’s Yaletown neighbourhood dated back to the Expo 86 days. The homeowner spotted Atmosphere Interior Design’s work on Instagram, and recruited the Saskatoon-based firm to make her new space light, bright and contemporary: a palette of white and grey with glam pops of gold.

The Kelly Wearstler sconces from Visual Comfort that sit on either side of the range help create an elegant transition from day mood to night. “We’re big fans of putting sconces into kitchens,” says Elmy.

And glam it is: heavily distressed mirrors on the upper cabinet doors are inspired by a Kelly Wearstler design in L.A. and help reflect light throughout the space. The natural marble on the backsplash was selected from a sample during those challenging pandemic days, but it ended up being the ideal fit for the space. “It was the perfect amount of grey and warm tones, with hints of gold in there,” says designer Curtis Elmy of Atmosphere. And while the design team went for a durable, grandkid-visit-friendly Caesarstone on working surfaces like the island and perimeter countertops, the natural marble still shows up in a creative installation on the lower part of the island. “It allowed us to interpret the stone in a unique way—and she doesn’t have to worry about it when she entertains,” says Elmy.

READ NEXT: 5 More Beautiful Kitchens to Inspire Your Next Renovation

Western Living

Western Living

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].