We Answer Wednesday - How to pick the right Kitchen Island seating options

"I'm moving into a house this fall and we have a kitchen island.  I'm excited to have seating at the island.  I've never purchased stools before what should I be looking for?"

First off - Congrats on the move!  How exciting!!

A kitchen island is definitely something to be excited about - they offer so much extra kitchen space in terms of prepping, serving or just hanging out.  We love kitchen islands!

When it comes to seating at your island the first thing you need to be 100% aware of is the height of the island.  Is it bar height? Is it counter height? Or is the (seating space) table height?  This is the number 1 thing you need to know before making any purchase.

 

For a bar height (this is usually described as a breakfast bar, usually there is a part of the island that is raised. sometimes we see a raised portion on a kitchen peninsula). A 30-inch stool is the perfect height for a standard 42-inch bar or counter top but anywhere between 28" and 33" will work . Bar-height stools are also ideal for a work space, like the garage. These are the same size stools you see in a restaurant or bar and are taller than the average dining chair. Ideal for standard built-in bars. Not ideal for small children

For counter height, this is an island that is the same height as the rest of your counter tops. These stools are the ideal height for a 36-inch counter or to have on their own for extra seating. Counter-height bar stools are smaller than the typical stool you see in restaurant or bar, but are a great addition to your home bar or kitchen space, they range in height from 24" to 27". Popular option for kitchen islands and easy to use for most people

For table height, (we see this a lot in condos) the island usually has a portion of the island that is counter height and then a portion that dips down to table height.  This is in lieu of a kitchen or dining table. Table-height stools are shorter than counter or bar stools and can be a good alternative to chairs at a dining table or breakfast nook. Generally between 16 and 23 inches tall. Offers a casual look; often without backs. Great choice for small children and kids' seating

 

this is an example of the kitchen island counter top with only a slight over hang - this would not be the main eating space but perfect for hanging out while watch the host cook.
 
Other measurements to consider when choosing a bar stool are the spaces between each stool as well as between the stool and the surface height.





For stool spacing, look to have about 26 to 30 inches measured from the center of one stool to the center of the stool next to it. This allows for optimal space for eating, working, and socializing. For leg spacing, account for 9 to 12 inches between the stool seat and the underside of your counter top or bar surface. We suggest a counter top over hang of 15"-18" if this is going to be a main eating area.

When it comes to style - the possibilities are truly endless but take a few things into consideration.  If this is a main seating/dining area - mid to full backs are a comfortable option.  If your are tight on space look for options that are sleeker and not bulky, backless stools tuck under counter top over hangs really nicely.  If you have room for lots of seating but don't really have a lot of guests over, try mixing styles - that way you have the supportive comfort but also some spare seating when you need it and your kitchen won't look or feel cramped.




This image is a great example of mixing stool styles.  The full back upholstered stools are comfortable and perfect for everyday use.  The backless adjustable cowhide stools add some extra seating when needed.

 

We Answer Wednesday - How to Decorate with Red

"I love red.  I have lots of red accents in my house like pillows and some art.  I want to add a new colour in the mix but still keep the red.  What works with red?"

Red is a bold colour and it can really make a statement on it's own but we agree with you adding in a secondary accent colour can really change up the look of your space.

Although red is big and punchy you do have options for a second accent colour.

Red and charcoal grey. this is a great choice if your main furniture pieces are black or even a dark espresso or the opposite, white.  We also like mixing red and charcoal with a lighter grey sofa like the image below.



Red and Aqua blue. If you like a bit of the unexpected this is a good option for you.  the aqua or turquoise combined with the red makes a bright and colourful statement - plus you can add some white for a clean almost beachy look or some golden yellows for even more pop! In a case like this a pattern piece like this pillows bring this unexpected colour combo together!

 

Red and White.  A classic combination and you can't go wrong with it! This can work with any style: country to modern - it just depends on the pieces.  Here we have an example of a country bedroom it is so fresh and inviting.  The distressed iron bed frame in red is just another way to add some colour into the room.



Red and Pink.  We you can!!  Again another unexpected combination but it definitely makes a statement! Again if you like the idea of mixing these two bold hues look for a piece that brings them together like a patterned pillow, area rug or an art piece. Keep the supporting neutrals clean and crisp like in this image - the pure white bedding and the soft grey drapes and bench are a perfect back drop for these bright tones!




 Red and Navy Blue.  This look can be a bit nautical but that depends on a lot of the decor items you choose.  This is another classic combination and it is truly timeless. See the image below for some inspiration in this colour palette that is not nautical in theme. 



Red and Dark Brown.  This is such a warmth combination and you can really add smaller accents to this look as well.  Take some inspiration from the image below. The mix of the dark brown wall and red furniture adds warmth and richness to the space.  The pattern rug and pillow add some golden tones into this mix as well.  This has a bit more of an eclectic feel but it is very chic.




 Red is so versatile in terms of both style and colour pairings.  Don't be afraid to try any combination!

How to Use Pattern Tiles

We have seen a lot of pattern tile in the past 2 years or so.  They made a big splash at recent design Shows, too!  They can really add a unique touch to a space.  Like the wallpaper accent trend they add some boldness or whimsy to a room but too much can just be overwhelming. 

If you like the look of a print or pattern, how can you use the pattern tile in a way that won't overwhelm or get 'tired' quickly. 

1.  Use a pattern tile in a small space like a bathroom.  For a few reasons, it won't be too overwhelming because the pattern isn't everywhere and also, should you decide to change it in a few years or so it won't be a huge undertaking. This image has the pattern tile on the floor in a neutral palette it is soft but still makes an impact.



2.  Stick with one pattern in the space.  When it comes to fashion mixing patterns is very chic but when it comes to pattern tile - to make the most impact stick with one pattern in the room (other wise it just gets too busy) keep the other pieces like cabinetry and paint pretty low key and solid.We love the backsplash tile here with the stainless hood fan and stove and against the white -Can you say?  #wowfactor




3.  Use it as an accent.  See a pattern tile you love but concerns that it might be a bit over the top? Treat it like the wallpaper accent wall - only tile one wall in the tile and keep the rest plain but complimentary. This blue pattern tile is busy and if the entire shower surround was covered in this tile it would be very overwhelming and likely not as pretty.  This accent tile makes a statement. A little pattern tile can go a long way




 If pattern tile is still just a bit too much for you but you want something different, consider lay out and shape.

 

Take some inspiration from this kitchen back splash. Typically we see rectangular tiles in a stacked formation or brick but this herringbone pattern adds some great visual interest to this classic kitchen. the herringbone arrangement also looks great in a shower surround in a 3x6 standard subway tile but also looks great on the floor in a 12 x 24 tile!

Trying adding just a tiny pop of pattern tile. In the image below we have a shower surround in a neutral subway tile in a dove grey tone in a brick layout but look at the shower shelf, a pop of print - so great!



 The hexagon tile is another great option if you are open to new shapes - this can give you a modern look or a more vintage style depending on the size of tile.  You can also get a more traditional look depending on the material you choose.  sometime a new shape can give you a whole new look without going crazy with colour or pattern.