Seriously, this week’s reveal of the House Beautiful Kitchen of the Year for 2009 did not disappoint. Ina Garten (Barefoot Contessa) inspired a space I could easily learn to call home!
Here are some of my thoughts about it:
Pros:
- Belly up to the counter = fewer steps for cleanup, and a great place for guests to hang out!
- LOVE the black and white contrast.
- Beadboard and ceiling add subtle architectural interest and texture without being overwhelming (for some reason that was really fun to say).
- I like the “homey” lamp on the counter – an cozy unexpected touch.
Cons (just a couple…and it’s probably just me):
- While the “tree” is very pretty to look at, it would drive me bonkers in real life. But great focal point if you’re having a party (which this is).
- The island is rather long; I might tire of running around it to get to the other side if I forgot something or if I am chasing the kids. Maybe a canal in the middle? lol
I’m a big fan of open cabinets. Admit it – opening and closing cabinet doors is a pain. But I would need to make sure I had nice dishes. 😉
But I believe there are some cabinets that need doors to hide the less-attractive kitchen items. I personally like a mix of open, closed and glass front cabinets.
I’m truly salivating over this two-tier flatware storage concept!
And how much better is this for storing spices! Sure beats spinning a lazy susan (I dislike that term) around in a corner cabinet!
(Little bragging note here: I moved my spices to an expandable organizer in my kitchen drawer a year ago, and it darn near changed my life – or at least my outlook on cooking).
One constant about kitchens – you always need a command central space to avoid the inevitable corner of clutter. This one is very pretty, but I personally think it needs more emphasis on storage of paperwork. Just sayin’.
There is a trend towards including living spaces in the kitchen (since everyone hangs out there anyway). I love the colors and simplicity of this design. I especially like the candle holders.
While I still have my eye on my own personal Dream Kitchen, this has given my lots of ideas to add to my laundry list of wishes.
What do you like (or dare to dislike) about this kitchen? How does it compare to past winners?
I don’t know about you, but I’m inspired to try one new recipe per week now.
Thanks Ina for inspiring such a fabulous kitchen, and a big thanks to House Beautiful for making it happen and letting me share this with you! Looking forward to KOTY 2010!
One last note: if you’re not already following House Beautiful on Twitter, you should! www.twitter.com/house_beautiful.