Photo: Courtesy of Closet Factory

The pantry, often overlooked and under-appreciated, is a vital part of any kitchen. It holds everything you need to feed your family, yet it’s often left to descend into chaos. If you’ve ever bought pasta not realizing you already had two boxes at home, or had to dig through a mountain of expired canned food, you know what we’re talking about. Here, we offer eight easy tips to whip your pantry into shape and transform it into a model of organization and efficiency. 

1. Throw out expired food

Transforming your pantry starts with a blank slate. Take everything out. Yes, everything. Emptying your pantry allows you to assess what you have, discard expired or stale items, and identify duplicates. Once the shelves are bare, give them a thorough cleaning. This is also the perfect opportunity to refresh the space—consider adding a coat of paint or decorative shelf liners to make your pantry inviting and bright.

2. Categorize the contents

Photo: Courtesy of Closet Factory

Whether you want to organize by type (staples, vegetables, etc), by packaging method (cans, bags, etc), or another method that makes sense to you, think about the types of food you buy most often and how it’s packaged. This step will help you visualize your pantry’s transformation. 

3. Use containers 

There’s a good chance you already have enough shelf space in your pantry to effectively organize the supplies you need. We recommend using soft organizers made out of canvas or plastic for rigid packaging like cans and bottles. You can even color-code these organizers so you know at a glance where to find the can of soup or bottle of balsamic you’re looking for. 

4. Organize your spices

Photo: Courtesy of Closet Factory

You probably already own something like a spice rack, but there’s a good chance you don’t have enough room in it to store all your spices. Take the time to upgrade, and when you do, buy one that’s much bigger than you’ll need. Or if you can easily categorize your spices (e.g. high use spices vs rarely needed), get two smaller ones and position them appropriately in your kitchen. 

5. Label everything

We know how perfect organization breaks down; you start by putting one thing where it doesn’t belong, believing that you’ll come back later and fix the situation. By labeling your shelves and organizers, you’ll immediately recognize when something is out of place and be encouraged to put it where it belongs. The longer you abide by your labels, the easier it will be to stay organized. 

6. Store heavy items on the bottom shelf

Photo: Courtesy of Closet Factory

Bulky, heavy items, such as supersized options bought at warehouse stores, belong on the bottom shelf of your pantry. Not only will you save yourself muscle strain or accidental drops, you’ll extend the overall life of your pantry.

7. Store paper products and cleaning supplies elsewhere 

Paper products, trash bags, cleaning supplies and other non-food items are best stored in a separate space, such as in your garage or under your kitchen sink. Your pantry should be dedicated to food items only, in an environment that keeps them fresh and untainted. 

8. Finally, commit to maintenance

Photo: Courtesy of Closet Factory

Organization isn’t a one-and-done task. Periodically check your pantry to ensure items are still in their designated spots and nothing has expired. A quick once-over every couple of weeks should keep your pantry in top shape.

By following these eight simple steps, you can transform your pantry into a well-organized, functional space. Not only will it make meal prep easier, but it’ll also save you time, money, and frustration. Your pantry will no longer be an afterthought—it will become command central of your kitchen, inspiring creativity and order in your daily routine.

Doug Lestikow is the CEO/Owner of Closet Factory, an award-winning Denver, Colorado company which has been creating completely personalized and unique storage solutions for their clients for 31 years. View their profile or, to set up a design consultation, contact them at 303.690.6901.

Content for this article provided by Closet Factory.

Photo: Eric Lucero Photography

THE PEAK DESIGN AWARDS GALA 2024, held at Mile High Station on June 20th, witnessed an array of design submission from the Rocky Mountain Chapter members. These submissions were exceptional, fostering creativity and reflecting the latest trends in design. The event was PURE GOLD at this year’s theme of 24 Carat Gold! From dazzling red carpet looks to hilarious jokes from our favorite emcee, it was an evening of fun and celebration filled with golden moments that made the night shine.

SMALL KITCHEN WINNERS

1st Place: SLOE GIN FIZZZ Ashley Christensen, Lindy Design Build

Photo: Tru Blu Images

2nd Place: HARMONIOUS SAGE Jeremy Parcels, CKBD, Leslie Hranicky, Parcels Design Studio

Photo: Tracy Rivera Photography

3rd Place: LET THERE BE LIGHT Elizabeth P. Lord, Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design LL

Photo: MG Photography

MEDIUM KITCHEN WINNERS

1st Place: BLENDED BLISS KITCHEN Eric E. Parlin, Exquisite Kitchen Design

Photo: Memories by Janae

2nd Place: I’D BE BLUE WITHOUT THIS KITCHEN Christine Spillar, CMKBD, Christine Spillar Interior Design

Photo: Tracy Rivera Photography

3rd Place: CURVED VIBES ONLY  Elizabeth P. Lord, Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design LLC

Photo: PLV Photography LLC

LARGE KITCHEN WINNERS

1st Place: CHASIN WATERFALLS Eli Hariton, Damn Good Interiors

Photo: FBG Studio

2nd Place: SUMMIT VIEW Kaimee Martelli, Enchanted Kitchens

Photo: Justin Doty Photography

3rd Place: IN MY ARCHES ERA Kaimee Martelli & Courtney Wells, Plum Kitchens & LuSi Design

Photo: Eric Lucero Photography

SPECIALTY ROOM WINNERS

1st Place: SHAPEN, NOT STIRRED Eli Haritone, Damn Good Interiors

Photo: FPG Studio

2nd Place: GOLDEN MERCANTILE PANTRY Dawn Wilkinsin and Amber Howard, Six Walls Interior Design

Photo: Burd’s Eye Creative

3rd Place: A ROOM FOR ETHAN Doug Walter, Doug Walter Architects

Photo: Photography by Steve Edwards

SMALL BATHROOM WINNERS

1st Place: BURIED TREASURE Christine Spillar, CMKBD, Christine Spillar Interior Design

Photo: Libbie Holmes Photography

2nd Place: COZY BASEMENT BATH Doug Walter, Doug Walter Architects

Photo: Philip Wegener Photography

MEDIUM BATHROOM WINNERS

1st Place: THE NINETIES GOT NUKED Kara Hayes, Melton Design Build

Photo: Studio Q Photography

2nd Place: RAISE THE RELAXATION Elizabeth P. Lord, Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design LLC

Photo: Nate Polta Photography

3rd Place: FACE THE FACETS Ashley Christensen, Lindy Design Build

Photo: Jess Blackwell Photography

LARGE BATHROOM WINNERS

1st Place: TALKING TO THE MOON Eli Hariton, Damn Good Interiors

Photo: FPG Studio

2nd Place: ALLURING ASPEN Heather Radliff, Christopher’s Kitchen & Bath

Photo: Morris Photography

POWDER ROOM WINNERS

1st Place: FULL MOON Gina D’Amore Bauerle, D’Amore Interiors

Photo: Eric Lucero Photography

2nd Place: THE POWDER WEARS PRADA Elizabeth P. Lord, Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design LLC

Photo: PLV Photography LLC

3rd Place: KNOTTY POTTY Gina D’Amore Bauerle, D’Amore Interiors

Photo: Eric Lucero Photography

BEST BEFORE AND AFTER KITCHEN

LET IT SHINE Marie Griffin, ACODenver

Photo: PLV Photography

BEST BEFORE AND AFTER BATHROOM

KNOTTY POTTY Gina D’Amore Bauerle, D’Amore Interiors

Photo: Eric Lucero Photography

CH&L’S MOST DRAMATIC MAKEOVERS

KITCHEN: LET IT SHINE Marie Griffin, ACODenver

Photo: PLV Photography

BATHROOM: THE POWDER WEARS PRADA Elizabeth P. Lord, Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design LLC

Photo: PLV Photography LLC

As seen in CH&L’s September/October 2024 issue.

Photo: S. Brenner Photography

Minimalism has gained popularity as a design approach that emphasizes clean lines, open spaces, and a clutter-free environment. In the kitchen, this design philosophy creates a harmonious blend of functionality and simplicity. For homeowners looking to achieve a sleek, minimalist kitchen, careful planning and design choices are key.  

Photo: S. Brenner Photography

Integrated appliances for seamless design

In minimalist kitchens, integrated appliances play a vital role in maintaining a clean aesthetic. Panel-ready dishwashers, refrigerators, and other appliances blend into the cabinetry, creating a unified look that reduces visual clutter. This integration ensures that the kitchen maintains its streamlined appearance without sacrificing practicality.

Photo: S. Brenner Photography

Handleless cabinetry and hidden storage

Handleless cabinetry is another hallmark of minimalist design. The absence of knobs or handles contributes to the overall clean look, allowing the focus to remain on the smooth lines of the cabinets. Hidden storage solutions, such as pull-out pantries and custom drawer inserts, help keep countertops free of clutter, further enhancing the minimalist appeal.

Photo: S. Brenner Photography

Neutral color schemes and natural materials

A neutral color palette is essential in minimalist kitchens. Soft shades of white, gray, or beige create a calming atmosphere, making the kitchen feel open and expansive. To add warmth and texture, natural materials such as wood and stone can be introduced. These materials complement the neutral tones while maintaining the simplicity of the design.

Photo: S. Brenner Photography

The importance of lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in minimalist kitchens. Recessed lights, under-cabinet LED strips, or simple pendant fixtures offer both functional and ambient lighting. Choosing understated fixtures in matte finishes ensures that the lighting enhances the space without overpowering it.

Photo: Emily Minton Redfield

Decluttering for a minimalist aesthetic

Minimalist kitchens prioritize organization and the removal of unnecessary items. Homeowners are encouraged to keep only essential items on the countertops, storing small appliances and kitchen tools in cabinets or drawers. This practice not only improves the overall functionality of the kitchen but also supports the clean, uncluttered look central to minimalist design.

A minimalist kitchen combines thoughtful design with purposeful choices, resulting in a space that feels both sleek and serene. Through the use of integrated appliances, handleless cabinetry, neutral tones, and natural materials, homeowners can create a clutter-free environment that enhances both aesthetics and functionality.

Ashley Lawhead is the Director of Marketing for Kitchen Distributors, which offers award-winning kitchen designs throughout the Rocky Mountains. View their profile or contact them at 303-795-0665.

Content for this article provided by Kitchen Distributors.

A well-organized storage system in a kitchen can vastly improve the function of your space. Pantries of all kinds have been implemented in homes throughout history to create a food preparation and storage system that best supports homeowners. What can we learn from the pantry designs of the past, and how can we use that to inform modern-day designs?

The Butler’s Pantry

The Butler’s pantry was most common in the late 19th century. It was a separate room located between the kitchen and dining room that was used to store valuable glassware and dishes, and be used for meal and serving preparation.

With today’s access to specialty appliances and bulk goods, this design has made a resurgence in modern-day kitchens and is highly desired by homeowners. Today’s butler’s pantry is typically a walk-in space connected to the kitchen that provides overflow storage, and a hidden area to store a multitude of countertop appliances away from the main kitchen.

Innovative casework design incorporates sliding pocket doors that conceal appliances, offering hidden storage and allowing for easy access without the need to move appliances in and out of their spaces.  It is also common that the butler’s pantry is personalized with a coffee bar, wine storage, baking station, or other specific space to tailor to the interests of the homeowner. For the avid chef, this design is ideal for the extra space and the added bonus of keeping everything hidden from the plain site.

Cabinets and Furniture Storage Systems

Storage systems go back as far as we can imagine, in the late 1800’s the first Hoosier cabinets were built and sold. The Hoosier cabinet, founded by Sellers, is a freestanding piece of furniture with storage capabilities and a built-in work surface. Designed for efficiency, they were meant to make food preparation faster by keeping everything you need in one place. In the 1950’s the item known as the bar cart became a popular household furniture piece stemming from the 1800’s popular tea cart.

Today these historical furniture items can be used as inspiration for creating work/storage stations throughout the kitchen that maximize function and streamline storage solutions. Imagine a coffee bar with a dedicated cabinet for storing bags and foils, along with prep stations conveniently situated above a pull-out trash bin.

Built-In Cabinetry

By the mid-20th century, food storage morphed into floor to ceiling cabinets to achieve a more modern design that was integrated in the kitchen. If you live in a mid-20th century home, it is likely that you don’t have enough area for a designated walk-in pantry since they were often not prioritized during this time with the developments of better food refrigeration systems.

This is a common storage solution for modern-day homes and renovations alike. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets maximize storage while taking up the least amount of area in your home. There is no need for a separate space that isn’t always available, and it keeps your food and extra items within the kitchen where they are easy to grab.

Pantry Closets

As home design and functionality have evolved over the decades, the need for storage remains constant. With rising home prices, many homes have downsized, making creatively designed pantry storage more essential than ever. This can range from a simple closet with shelving to a walk-in layout if space permits. When space is limited, a pantry closet offers an excellent storage solution that can often be easily incorporated into existing areas. A pantry closet doesn’t have to be dull; thoughtful casework design can introduce hidden storage and innovative organization ideas while maintaining style and functionality.

Marri Wood, NCIDQ, is a Designer/Project Manager and Aspen Zabel, NCIDQ, is Interior Department Director at award-winning architecture firm VFLA, located in Fort Collins, Colorado. View VFLA’s profile or contact them at 970.224.1191 or www.vfla.com.

Content for this article provided by VFLA.

Kitchen Featuring an informal industrial-rustic vibe, the kitchen was designed to make food preparation a breeze. The space is low-key and comfortable with plenty of room for gathering and entertaining family and guests. | Photo: Susie Brenner

At some point, we’ve probably all wondered how a designer would approach a renovation in their own home. What tricks would they use to pull everything together, making a refresh both functional and beautiful? For Christine Kosoff, designer and owner of Colorado Kitchen Designs, this scenario played out with her complete home kitchen upgrade. Practicality and budget were both considerations, and Kosoff began the remodel with the goal of adding ample storage and surface space to accommodate her baking hobby and to help her 7-year-old daughter stay organized. In the new space, everything has a place and is easy to locate. To begin, the kitchen and dining areas were combined to create one big room. “This took a little finessing,” says Kosoff.

“We had to place a temporary support and tear out a wall before installing a metal ceiling support beam that was brought in through the kitchen window.” Once that step was complete, Kosoff turned her attention to the rest of the room. The first thing people notice is the 16-foot island clad with a Pental Quartz Horizon surface. The island offers extra room to roll out dough and decorate the baked goods that Kosoff loves to make for special family celebrations. The large island commanded a somewhat grandiose accessory, and Kosoff discovered the perfect custom light fixture on Etsy. “A father son duo in Canada created the light fixture and shipped it directly to me,” she explains.

The backsplash enhances the pale blue cabinetry and coordinates perfectly with the countertop. | Photo: Susie Brenner

After hanging it, she artfully twisted the cords to create an arrangement that best suited the room. A Monogram double wall oven and an oven below the cooktop rise to the occasion when simultaneous use is called for. The induction cooktop stays cool to the touch to prevent burns, but heats quickly, making fast work of boiling water and heating liquid ingredients. An oversize sink, equipped with a complete workstation, makes food preparation and cleanup a breeze. The dishwasher is located just to the right of the sink for convenient rinsing and stacking. Rustic industrial finishes add to the wow factor while offering easy upkeep.

The backsplash adds dimension, and leathered granite countertops provide textural interest. The engineered wood flooring’s textured dark finish defends against the family dog’s paw prints, scratches and daily wear and tear. One of the most important elements for Kosoff is organized storage. Her cooking and baking items can be neatly stashed away when not in use.

The custom light fixture over the large kitchen island is a showstopper. | Photo: Susie Brenner

A designated cabinet for her daughter’s school necessities includes a drawer with a built-in charger, keeping her tablet ready for the school day. Lunch containers are organized, and her pens, pencils and crayons stay in one place until she needs them. “It makes it simple to get going on busy mornings, and my daughter loves having a space that is just for her,” Kosoff says. Now that the renovation is complete, Kosoff says the family enjoys spending time in the new space more than ever. It looks and functions just the way she envisioned and makes her baking hobby a true joy.

Family Life Perfect for family, the renovated kitchen space is airy and bright. The mouthwatering scent of baked goods makes it an inviting place to linger and spend time together. | Photo: Susie Brenner

Colorado Kitchen Designs, Christine Kosoff

As seen in CH&L’s September/October 2024 Issue

WHEN CONFIDENCE MEETS CREATIVITY, magical things can happen. And when it comes to kitchen design, courageous decisions can elevate a busy workspace into a beloved— and beautiful—hub of daily activity, where people long to linger. In the hands of these innovative Colorado kitchen designers, the results are strong, colorrich and ready to inspire culinary artistry.

Mid-Mod Mix

Photo: Susie Brenner

GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO REMODEL the kitchen of a sprawling 1962 ranch, Jennifer Pruett, owner and principal interior designer of Denver-based Pruett & Co, jumped at the chance. “The clients are young and cool with young children and friends to entertain, so we hugely increased their storage, jazzed up their bar, and used durable materials,” Pruett explains. “There are bits of mid-mod, glam and traditional elements, but, overall, the homeowners wanted something unique, colorful and eclectic.”

The original layout was outdated and impractical, so Pruett opened up the space, relocated a skylight, and even added a hidden door to the dining room. The renewed kitchen is light, playful and bright. Cabinets are painted in Sherwin-Williams Rookwood Sash Green, the backsplash and range hood are covered in pale green Fez tiles by Wow, and the floor dazzles with a Daltile hexagon mosaic. “We were able to get really creative with color and pattern,” Pruett says.

KITCHEN DESIGN: Pruett & Co.
CABINETS: MD Woodworks
COUNTERTOPS: Pental Quartz
FAUCETRY: California Faucet
APPLIANCES: Thermador
LIGHTING: Kelly Wearstler,  Visual Comfort
HARDWARE: Amerock
TILE: Wow, Daltile

Log Cabin Wow

Photo: Jenny Terrell

CHALLENGING EXPECTATIONS TAKES NERVE, but the payoff can be huge. “Log homes have the tendency to feel dark and slightly dreary,” says Mikal Otten, owner of Denver’s Exquisite Kitchen Design. Fortunately, this 25-year-old log home already had windows and skylights that welcomed natural light when the homeowners asked Otten to help with a refresh. “The clients love to entertain and wanted to create a ‘wow’ kitchen and bar space with contemporized aesthetics,” Otten says.

“We went to work to create something spectacular.” The designer started by moving the dining room to open up an area for a grand bar—crafted from high-gloss eucalyptus, stone and brass—that also functions as a room divider. A wall of ebonized walnut cabinets frames the range, with an island made from bleached walnut together with a live-edge claro walnut slab table with brass supports. The masterful mix of wood and metal harmonizes with the rock fireplace and log structure. “I love how it’s unexpected,” says Otten. “It pushes the boundaries of what most people would do in the space.”

KITCHEN DESIGN: Mikal Otten, Exquisite Kitchen Design
CABINETS: Premier Custom-Built Cabinetry
FAUCETS: The Galley
APPLIANCES: Subzero, Wolf, Cove
HARDWARE: Rocky Mountain Hardware, Myoh

Color Takes Flight

Photo: Emily Minton Redfield

ANDREA MONATH SCHUMACHER, principal designer and owner of Denver-based Andrea Schumacher Interiors, and senior designer Annie Martin took a dated ranch home and brought it to vibrant life with some fabulous fabric for inspiration. Because the homeowners enjoy entertaining, they needed a kitchen that was more group-friendly, so the designers opened up the space with a new layout that features a large eat-at island.

And, after the homeowners fell in love with a Schumacher fabric for Roman shades that features a lush bird-filled, blue-and-green-hued lotus garden, the designers knew they’d found the key to unlocking the room’s potential. White wall cabinets are juxtaposed with blue island cabinets, and a custom BlueStar range and hood in a rich shade of green with antique brass trim packs a colorful punch. “As with many projects we’re seeing in the post pandemic era, this kitchen features unique and bold choices,” Martin says. “Gone are the days of ‘bland-inavian’ design— and we couldn’t be more grateful to see it go!”

KITCHEN DESIGN: Annie Martin, Andrea Schumacher Interiors Andrea Monath Schumacher
CABINETS: Wood Mode
COUNTERTOPS: Caesarstone
APPLIANCES: BlueStar
LIGHTING: Hubbardton Forge
TILE: Kelly Wearstler, MADE Tableau
FABRIC : Schumacher

Family Refresh

Photo: Travis Woolford, Dynamic Range Solutions

WHEN COURTNEY MEREDITH, lead interior designer of Greenwood Village-based c2Design, was tasked with remodeling the kitchen of a late-1990s home blessed with grand mountain views, “It was just craving a fresh outlook,” Meredith says. The homeowners—a busy family with young kids—were looking for a more open main level, with increased storage and recharged sophistication.

“I employed space-planning tactics to make sure their kitchen and living room could keep up with their growing family, designing for breezy traffic pathways, custom storage throughout the kitchen and living room built-ins, plenty of countertop space, strategic outlets, a bright and airy palette and durable finishes,” Meredith explains. An innovative L-shaped island now plays an important supporting role for the family’s routine, from homework to entertaining, with a quartet of comfy Sunpan stools and an oversize Visual Comfort pendant light shining overhead. Meredith says, “The functional kitchen has been crucial to their busy days.”

KITCHEN DESIGN: Courtney Meredith, c2Design
CABINETS: Kitchen Craft
HARDWARE: Top Knobs
LIGHTING: Visual Comfort
APPLIANCES: Sub-Zero, Thermador
FAUCETS: Brizo
TILE: Interceramic, Countertop: The Stone Collection

Polished Sophistication

Photo: Scott Hasson

WITH A CRAMPED LAYOUT, two islands and aging cherry cabinetry, this Cherry Creek kitchen was sorely in need of renovation when Sarah Spiroff, senior designer at Littleton-based Kitchen Distributors, stepped in to help reimagine the space for today.

Spiroff transformed the space by creating one large island and adding cozy bench seating beside the bay window. New slate-stained maple cabinets are set off with polished brass, knurled hardware and Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, and a bespoke matte brass hood with polished brass strapping was installed above the new Wolf range along with a custom laser-cut, magnolia bud backsplash in onyx and marble. “The meticulous overhaul achieved a seamless blend of functional sophistication and timeless elegance,” Spiroff says. “Architectural enhancements, integrated spaces and top-tier appliances exemplified a perfect balance of practicality and opulence— every element, from the cabinetry to the stunning backsplash, contributed to an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury and visual intrigue.”

KITCHEN DESIGN: Sarah Spiroff, Kitchen Distributors
CABINETS: Kitchen Distributors
FAUCETS: California Faucets
APPLIANCES: Wolf
HARDWARE: Top Knobs
TILE: Decorative Materials

A seen in CH&L’s September/October 2024 Issue

Textural elements play a crucial role in kitchen design, as they contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal, functionality, and mood of the space.  Here, we delve into the top nine common textural elements utilized in kitchen design, each playing a pivotal role in crafting a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.

Cabinetry

Cabinetry serves as the backbone of kitchen design, and its material and finish significantly impact texture. Whether opting for sleek and glossy finishes for a contemporary look or distressed wood for rustic charm, cabinetry sets the tone for the entire space. From wood to laminate, metal, glass, and stone, a plethora of materials offer various textures, complemented by styles such as raised panel, slab, or shaker. The choice of finishes, be it stained, painted, distressed, or glossy, further enhances the texture, ultimately creating a cohesive design that elevates the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal.

Countertops

Integral to kitchen functionality, countertops also play a crucial role in adding texture. Various materials offer distinct textures and visual interests, catering to different styles and preferences. Natural stone options like granite and marble, whether they be polished, honed or leathered,  boast unique variations and veining, lending depth and organic charm. Engineered quartz countertops offer uniform texture with a broad spectrum of colors, for a contemporary aesthetic. Butcher block surfaces introduce warmth and character with visible grains and knots, while concrete countertops provide customizable textures. By carefully selecting the right countertop this allows the homeowners to enhance texture while catering to their preferred style and functionality needs.

Backsplashes

Backsplashes are not only functional but also serve as a canvas for texture in kitchen design. With materials ranging from ceramic and glass to stone and metal, backsplashes offer a myriad of textural opportunities. Different tile patterns and grout lines further influence the perceived texture, with options like subway, herringbone, and contrasting grout colors adding depth and dimension. Incorporating mixed materials and decorative accents like hand made tiles or mosaics enriches the texture, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the kitchen.

Flooring

Flooring materials such as hardwood, tile, laminate, vinyl, concrete, and natural stone contribute to the tactile experience of the kitchen. Hardwood flooring adds warmth and character with its natural grain patterns, while tile layouts create visual interest and depth. From matte to glossy surfaces, flooring choices impact texture and mood, with color and tone selections further influencing the overall ambiance of the space.

Hardware

Often overlooked but equally significant, hardware choices in kitchen design contribute to texture and visual interest. With materials like stainless steel, brass, bronze, or hand forged, hardware adds tactile qualities that complement cabinetry and other elements in the kitchen. From intricate designs to contrasting finishes, hardware selections allow for customization and personalization, ultimately enhancing the overall texture of the space.

Lighting Fixtures 

Lighting fixtures not only illuminate the kitchen but also play a vital role in shaping its overall texture. With materials like metal, glass, fabric, or wood, fixtures offer diverse tactile experiences that add depth and personality to the space. Bulb selection, fixture placement, and layering techniques further enhance texture, creating a visually rich and inviting atmosphere.

Appliances

Appliances, essential for kitchen functionality, also contribute to texture in design. With options ranging from stainless steel to painted finishes or custom paneling, appliances offer diverse tactile qualities that interact with surrounding elements. Paying attention to size, scale, and integration allows homeowners to enhance texture while maintaining a cohesive look and feel in the kitchen.

Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements such as wood beams, stone accents, and indoor plants adds organic textures that soften the overall look of the kitchen. Wood beams, for instance, may showcase natural knots and variations that add warmth and character. Stone accents, whether in the form of a backsplash, countertop, or decorative feature, introduce rugged textures that contrast with smoother surfaces like cabinets or countertops.  These elements bring visual and physical interest, creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere that connects with nature.

Furniture and Accessories

Lastly, furniture and accessories play a significant role in adding texture and personality to the kitchen. From wooden bar stools to upholstered chairs and decorative accents like cushions or rugs, these elements offer richness and visual interest. By mixing different textures, shapes, and designs, layers of interest can be created to enhance the overall texture and feeling of the space.

When designing a kitchen, textural elements are essential components of the overall design, contributing to its visual appeal, functionality, and mood. By carefully selecting and integrating these elements, homeowners can create a cohesive and inviting kitchen space that reflects their personal style and enhances their overall living experience.

Ashley Lawhead is the Director of Marketing for Kitchen Distributors, which offers award-winning kitchen designs throughout the Rocky Mountains. View their profile or contact them at 303-795-0665.

Content for this article provided by Kitchen Distributors.

Sponsored Content

As the heart of the home, kitchens are evolving to meet the demands of modern living. One notable trend that has gained significant traction is the shift from traditional walk-in pantry closets to integrated built-in pantries. This shift is driven by a combination of aesthetics, functionality, and a desire for seamless design. Here are the top reasons behind the growing preference for integrated pantries and how they are reshaping the kitchen landscape.

Space Optimization and Efficiency 

Integrated built-in pantries offer an ingenious solution to the perennial challenge of space optimization. Unlike their traditional counterparts, integrated pantries are meticulously designed to maximize available space. Custom shelving, pull-out drawers, and specialized compartments allow homeowners to organize pantry items efficiently. Every inch of space is utilized effectively, enabling a clutter-free and organized environment.

Seamless Design Integration 

The days of bulky, standalone pantry closets are making way for sleek, integrated solutions that enhance the kitchen’s aesthetics. Integrated pantries maintain a cohesive and harmonious appearance, contributing to a polished and streamlined look thereby eliminating the need for a built-in closet that does not contribute to the overall design. 

Enhanced Accessibility and Organization 

Accessibility is a key factor driving the popularity of integrated pantries. Items are conveniently within arm’s reach, promoting efficient workflow during meal preparation. Customized storage options, such as adjustable shelving and pull-out baskets, make organizing and retrieving items a breeze. The result is a well-organized and efficient pantry that supports the culinary journey.

Personalization and Versatility 

Integrated pantries allow homeowners to tailor their storage solutions to their specific needs and preferences. From specialized compartments for spices to pull-out racks for canned goods, the level of personalization is unmatched. Beyond food storage, integrated pantries can house small appliances, cookware, and cleaning supplies, showcasing their versatility or particular function may it be a coffee station to a hidden bar.

Efficiency and Workflow Enhancement 

Strategically placing integrated pantries near prep areas or the main cooking space optimizes kitchen workflow. This design choice minimizes the need to navigate around the kitchen to access pantry items, enhancing efficiency during culinary endeavors. The integration of pantry and kitchen space promotes a cohesive and fluid cooking experience.

As kitchens continue to evolve, integrated built-in pantries have emerged as an essential component of modern kitchen design. Their ability to optimize space, seamlessly integrate with the overall design, and enhance accessibility has made them a sought-after feature. This trend underscores the desire for efficiency, aesthetics, and personalized organization, as homeowners seek kitchens that align with their contemporary lifestyles. The rise of integrated pantries is reshaping the way we approach kitchen storage, showcasing the perfect fusion of form and function.

Ashley Lawhead is the Director of Marketing for Kitchen Distributors, which offers award-winning kitchen designs throughout the Rocky Mountains. View their profile or contact them at 303-795-0665.

Content for this article provided by Kitchen Distributors.

Sponsored Content

Colorado summers are extraordinary, making the season the perfect time for entertaining guests in your home. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, pool party, cocktail hour, or a laid-back family dinner, your kitchen is likely to be the hub of all the action. To ensure that your kitchen is ready to tackle all of your summer entertaining plans, here are some tips to help you prepare.

Declutter and Deep Clean

Before you start preparing for hosting guests, it’s important to declutter and deep clean your kitchen. This will result in more space for food preparation, as well as make your kitchen appear more inviting.

Stock Up on Essentials

The last thing you want to do is realize mid-event that you don’t have something you need. So, at least a few days before your first summer event, make sure you have all of the necessary dining essentials. When hosting a large group, many turn to disposable paper and plastic, but if you want to wow your guests and be more sustainable, opt for quality, reusable plates, cups, napkins, utensils, etc. Also, make sure you have any special equipment you might need for outdoor cooking, such as a grill or a smoker.

Create a Beverage Station

Summer entertaining often involves lots of drinks, especially in the hot Colorado sun, so consider creating a beverage station in your kitchen. This could be a simple setup with a few pitchers of water, lemonade, and iced tea, or a more elaborate setup with a bar cart and a variety of cocktails.

Prep Food in Advance

To save time and reduce stress on the day of the event, try to prepare as much food as possible in advance. Marinating meats, chopping vegetables, or making desserts ahead of time will make your day go smoother and allow you to enjoy the event just as much as your guests do.

Have a plan for cleanup

Keep your plan simple and easy to follow. Designate a place for guests to stack dirty dishes and utensils when they are finished. Make sure trash/recycle/compost bins are readily available. Most importantly, save clean up for after the party so you can enjoy mingling with your guests.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your kitchen is ready for all of your summer entertaining needs. With just a little preparation, you can host a successful and stress-free event that your guests will remember for years to come.

Tom Hartman is President at Kitchen Distributors, an award-winning kitchen design firm creating beautiful designs throughout the Rocky Mountains. View their profile or contact them at 303-795-0665.

Content for this article provided by Kitchen Distributors.