You all know that I have a passion for beautiful food, but I also have a not-so-secret-secret passion for beautiful kitchens. I’m a firm believer that the kitchen is the heart of the home and a beautiful kitchen can inspire the most incredible recipes. I was in need of some major kitchen inspo so I turned to Interior Designer Jennifer Vaughn Miller, from Vaughn Miller Studio, who has designed some seriously delicious kitchens. See Jennifer’s kitchen advice, fit for both kitchen renters and owners alike!
#1: All About the Vintage Bounty...
For years I’ve been collecting all things dining: vintage china, platters, hotel silver, monogrammed linens, napkin rings, trophy’s, ice buckets, you name it. I pick them up at yard sales and flea markets and have amassed quite the collection. I’m always moving these finds around the kitchen to suit my mood.
I like to elevate every meal so I actually use my vintage pieces all the time. Even for a small weekend lunch with my husband and daughter, I pull out all the stops. It’s these details that conjure lovely childhood memories.
#2: Mix It Up
I’m all about mixing a variety of materials. The key is to stick to a tonal palette and bring in depth through layering materials. For example, I may pair matte metal fittings and honed marble surfaces with metallic cabinet panels. The subtle cues between different textures create a harmonized space with visual interest.
#3: Organize, Organize, Organize
This may seem crazy but I like to “merchandise” my kitchen. Nothing makes me happier than opening my fridge and pantry and seeing the cans and bottles all facing the same direction, flour and sugar in large glass jars, and fresh produce stylishly displayed in bowls. I even decant my eggs. I put them in a white bowl and then have a pretty aqua pen that I use to mark the expiration date on one of them. I’m crazy like that. Now you know!
#4: Add Furniture
Sometimes kitchens can lack character and appear repetitive if they are too monotonous. I like to break from the standard mold by adding a piece of furniture in the kitchen. If you have the space, bring in an antique butcher block or an antique case good filled with your favorite serveware. If your space is limited, place a vitrine on the counter displaying an object you love. It's details like this that add an element of interest and surprise.
#5: Splurge on the focal point
For those who own their home and can afford to splurge, I’d suggest splurging on a range. A range can set the tone and character for the entire kitchen. They really are the focal point of the space, and provide the perfect opening to make a statement. My ultimate range? Lacanche or Officine Gullo. While they are a bit pricy, they come in an array of bold and beautiful colors and elevate any kitchen space. I’m obsessed with this Officine Gullo range in aqua marine at the moment.
Inspired? I am! In fact, I’m heading to the kitchen right now to decant my eggs! View Jennifer’s work here and follow her here and see more of her amazing kitchens below.
