Article written by Sheila Yong while employed at Fenwick & Company
Originally published in the MB Home Decor & Renovations Magazine
Volume 15 Issue 6 – Dec 2013/Jan 2014
Download the full issue here

What does your space say about you? From choosing the right finishes to finding a style that represents your uniqueness: it’s important that your cabinets reflect your personality. There are many factors that come into play when choosing a cabinet style and layout. Here are some pointers to help you determine how to select cabinets that represent your individual style.

GLITZ AND GLAM
You enjoy a dazzling night filled with martinis in one hand and hors d’oeuvres in the other. Soirées are your thing. You are the life of the party.

Selection Tips
Think contrasting colours and clean details. The juxtaposition of colours, if coordinated correctly, will provide a very glamorous look to your kitchen. Pair that with some “bling” in your lighting and accessory choices.

BUSINESS CASUAL
You are the casual classic type. The women would pair a suit jacket with that bold and charming top. It yells uniquely you. The men, on the other hand, would wear a pink dress shirt and a skinny tie from Burberry (aka tie with a tartan pattern)… and it looks soooooo goooood. After work, you replace your dress pants with jeans and you’re good to go. Some may call this “Miller-time’!

Selection Tips
Look for a clean cabinet door style with a soft finish. Add an element of surprise with some unexpected moments – i.e. open shelves for display or maybe a play of depth in your cabinets. Think of the finishing touches – similar to adding a belt to your dress pants, adding crown moulding to your cabinet will give it a sophisticated look. Be aware of pull placement. You’d be surprised how much of a difference it will make!

RUSTIC MODERN
You are inspired by handmade vintage items from the countryside but you enjoy life in the city. You enjoy both worlds – not one excluding the other. Entertainment for you is a quiet night with your family, accompanied by a shared bottle of wine.

Selection Tips
Simple elegance would describe your kitchen perfectly. Your style stands the test of time – not too traditional; not too modern. Select a cabinet with warm tones, along with a bold and dynamic backsplash in order to add contrast to its simplicity. The reverse would work also – a dynamic cabinet with a softer backsplash. Pair that with some of your favourite antiques. Just remember it’s not about matching, it’s about coordinating.

General Tips
Your cabinets should reflect your unique personality and suit your lifestyle. Consider all your options in the planning stages – kitchen layout, cabinet details, materials and so on.

Ask questions. There are infinite questions and options when it comes to planning. Sometimes these questions and available options may overwhelm you. Just remember to take it one step at a time – analyze your lifestyle and make a “needs” and “wants” list. Lastly, ask this question at every stage of the process – “is it really me?” and “will this work for me and my family”?

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