The original layout of this North Vancouver kitchen had been pre-designed, so when it was time to hear from the new clients of the space, designer Maria DeCotiis worked to create a kitchen that matched their vision. That meant adjusting the finishes and adding more drawers to fit their look. “We were keeping the same footprints, while creating the vibe that the clients were after,” she says.

The backsplash opposite the oven is a slab of quartz that was also used for the countertop. “We did this because the client didn’t want it to be busy, they wanted everything very clean,” says DeCotiis. “We repeated it on the island and then waterfalled it.” 

Clean lines in mind, the lights above the island were slim and minimal. “It’s not something I’d typically gravitate towards,” DeCotiis remarks. “But I love it. It’s so simple, yet it adds just enough interest to the space.” 

There’s also a built-in study nook/extra office space (which ended up being more timely than DeCotiis could have known). “At the end of the day, it can be utilized in so many different ways,” she says. “This creates a ‘zone’ that everyone can work on, rather than ending up on the island. If the client’s kids are doing homework or on the computer, it’s great to have them in the same room. You’re able to see what they’re doing, or if they need help.” 

DeCotiis worked to make sure there was as much storage space as possible. “You really have to think it through,” she says. “Storage is really important to me because I know it’s the number one complaint clients have. We made sure to add as much millwork as we could so that the clients had a space for everything.”

As practical as the added storage is, there were also careful steps in making sure the space was just as beautiful as it was functional. The appliances completely blend in to the design. “The only appliance you can see is the range,” says DeCotiis. “It looks like a kitchen, but it doesn’t feel ‘kitchen-y.’”

All in all, what made this project come together was the small changes that ended up making it feel like a custom design. “It doesn’t feel cold. Sometimes contemporary places can feel that way. I think adding some brass  helps warm it up,” says DeCotiis. “I really enjoyed seeing how these small changes really impacted the space. It feels more liveable and flexible.”

All photography by Tracey Ayton.