Designing a kitchen that feels open and spacious, yet functions seamlessly with everyday life, requires consideration of the balance between form and function. Designer Sam Sachs accomplished just that with this charming 1920s Arts and Crafts home near Toronto’s High Park. In a space where traditional and modern elements harmoniously blend, every detail has been thought out to create a practical, yet undeniably beautiful kitchen. From the spacious etagere shelving to the small but charming island, this kitchen reflects an understanding of how to make the most of a small footprint without sacrificing elegance or practicality. has been.
Storage was a top priority for this family of four, and Sacks chose open shelving instead of enclosed cabinets to make the space lighter and more airy. The shelves double as showcases for carefully selected pottery and household items, turning practical storage into a design feature. Anchored by brass cabinetry and a Calacatta Oro backsplash, this kitchen strikes a delicate balance between timeless craftsmanship and modern simplicity.
Sam Sachs talks about creating an open and airy kitchen
Sachs paid close attention not only to aesthetics, but also to flow and functionality. A compact island prevents bottlenecks in a busy household while providing space for connection, whether it’s a casual meal or a glass of wine with friends. Clever solutions like vented benches over radiators introduce another layer of pattern and appeal while providing additional seating. Every element was designed with purpose, making this kitchen not only beautiful to look at, but functional as well.
Want to bring this airy, open feel to your home? Sacks shares her top tips for creating a kitchen that’s as practical as it is beautiful.
sam sax
A former magazine editor and accomplished storyteller, Sam’s work reflects a deep understanding of his clients’ needs, combined with a foundational knowledge of architectural history and backed by wild inspiration. . Sam, a mother of three, loves decorating for her family and knows how to design around her furry dog.
1. Adopt a tone-on-tone palette
To create a cohesive and calming space, Sacks advises starting with a tone-on-tone color palette. “Here, we used a soft white for the cabinetry,” she explains. This creates an elegant backdrop that exudes a timeless and serene atmosphere. From there, introduce subtle changes in texture and materials to keep things interesting. Shimmering brass accents and gray-gold marble surfaces add a sense of depth and sophistication.
2. Add a splash of color
Once you’ve established a neutral base, liven up your kitchen with a punch of color. With this design, Sachs introduced “a lush pattern of windows and benches.” This is a vibrant green print that enlivens the space without overwhelming it. This thoughtful touch adds personality and acts as a natural focal point for the room.
3. Balance feminine touches with industrial details
Sacks describes the overall aesthetic as “nuanced femininity balanced by bold industrial plumbing fixtures and heavy brass cabinetry.” Combining soft, delicate elements like airy palettes and curvaceous backsplashes with stronger, heavier features creates a kitchen that feels grounded yet fresh.
4. Make function and beauty coexist
For a family of four, storage and functionality were non-negotiables, and Sachs found a way to combine practicality and beauty. Open etagere shelves provide storage while maintaining a light and airy look, and a ventilation bench covering the radiator serves dual purpose. “Not only does this allow for more seating, but it also allows for the opportunity to repeat the leafy vine pattern of Roman blinds, a proven decorating technique for making impact in small spaces. ” By prioritizing smart, versatile solutions, Sachs has proven that function doesn’t have to come at the expense of style.
