Creative Backsplash

Mosaic for the kitchen backsplash lends rustic appeal.




Vintage Appeal

Mint green glass towel bars keep gay vintage towels within easy reach of the sink. All were antiques-shop finds.




Plate Rack

Opening up this area allows the addition of a storage-filled peninsula. Topped with a butcher block, the peninsula is a handy spot for prepping. It also serves as a gathering place when having company over. A plate rack gives easy access to dishes and mugs that were out of immediate reach before. A pendant light directly overhead provides the necessary task lighting.

Must-Have Feature: Pendant Lights. Set at three different heights, the period-appropriate light fixtures from Holophane suit different tasks in the now-efficient kitchen.




Elegant Harmony

On the Top: Great looks and easy care make Vermont Soapstone a good option for countertops: a monthly wipe with mineral oil maintains the finish; sandpaper removes deep scratches.

Smart Choice: Energy-efficient appliances such as this dishwasher from Maytag reduce the use of natural resources (and electric bills). Stainless steel gives the kitchen a sleek, up-to-date attitude.

Pretty Practical: This bridge faucet from American Standard looks right at home in an older home -- and the extra-long spout has plenty of reach for 21st-century commercial-style cookware.

Easy Update: New hardware is one of the most affordable ways to give kitchen cabinets a fresh look. The handsome brushed-nickel pulls and crystal knobs shown here were found at Home Depot.




Sliding Drawer

No room for a dedicated pantry? Cabinet manufacturers offer slide-out units that fit into standard base-cabinet openings, or gaps between cabinets.




Instant Messaging

If your household schedules need as much organizing as your dry goods, consider turning the pantry into a full-scale message center with pads of paper for lists, a bulletin board, and a daily calendar.

A chalkboard makes it easy to keep notes visible. Simpson Door has a Chalkboard Panel Interior Door, or spray paint it with products from manufacturers like Krylon.




Soapstone Sink

A soapstone sink has an integrated drain board for convenient cleanup.





photo credit: Keith Scott Morton