2006, September, Volume 2, Issue 9, Home and Décor Magazine
Award-Winning Design Canadian Champs

By Amy Tokic

THIRD PLACE Small kitchens
Jan Regis, Binns kitchen & Bath Design – Pickering

Contemporary Cool
Too much counter space can sometimes be a problem, especially when you’re dealing with a small kitchen layout. Jan Regis of Binns kitchen & Bath Design solved this dilemma by taking out some of the counters and adding an island. Whimsical Italian glass pendants above the bar and elegant suede-covered bar stools create a sleek European look, and colourful accessories help turn the kitchen into an interesting and inviting living space. What was once a very traditional kitchen, Jan turned this space into a contemporary vision with flat panel maple laminate cabinetry, accented with stainless steel pulls, appliances and bar top legs.

HONOURABLE MENTION Small Kitchens
Anthony Binns, Binns Kitchen & Bath Design – Pickering

Corner Concerns
When Anthony Binns was approached to redesign this small kitchen, the first thing he noticed was its unusual corner. He discovered that it was the headroom for the basement stairwell protruding into the space. Since he couldn’t move them, he cut out a small angle at the top of the stairs, where he placed a sink without compromising the stairs’ headroom. In order to make the space look bigger, Anthony installed painted cabinets that complemented the laminate flooring. Creating a Beaux Arts period feel, countertops were finished with granite and an off-white eating bar was added. Professional appliances such as a gas cooktop, and useful conveniences like a pull-out cabinet for recycling and garbage, helped turn this kitchen into a truly functional room. And most importantly, Anthony’s client loved the end result.