The kitchen. The heart of the home. Where it all happens.

From the beginning I wanted many windows to let in as much natural light as possible, and as we face north, none of this light would be direct or harsh. We also are lucky to have a view, so setting expansive windows was a must-do. From the kitchen I can see what’s going on in the yard, the lake and especially what’s going on with the weather!

Our house is very open-concept so once people walk in the front door, they can see the kitchen, dining room and Great room all at once. Therefore, keeping my kitchen neat and tidy most of the time is something I was willing to do in order to avoid embarrassment with visitors. Now, that being said, if I am home alone and no one is coming up, I pile dishes next to the sink like anybody else, and wash them up after the day is done.

A stainless steel hood, maple cabinets and white quartz make up the materials with fir beams above. I love my contemporary island stools from Urban Barn. Double oven means 2 appliances to keep clean but sooo handy when baking and cooking larger meals.

Hickory flooring and a splash of geometric marble hexagons over the gas stove, keep the palette consistent white and wood. I truly adore white kitchens, but with a timber style-it didn’t make sense. It’s all about featuring wood and I’m glad that I stuck to that plan as white cabinetry would not have suited this design.

What do you think of all white versus wood kitchens?