Worthwhile upgrades

Trends column by Marc Atiyolil


By Marc Atiyolil , Canwest News Service
 
 

 
Dear Marc,


I am living in a small and ordinary condo, purchased at the very highest time. In order to sell it quickly for the highest possible price, I’ve begun to upgrade the unit. In the kitchen, I have so far done the following: medium toned hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances. Because there’s minimal light in the kitchen, I am looking at the lightest possible colours for the counter top. I love marble but it doesn’t seem practical and granite doesn’t have real light colours. Any suggestions?

Bea

Dear Bea,

Upgrading your condo is a great investment! Kitchens are at the heart of the home and they are usually the room that “sells the house” when potential buyers are browsing though your home. There are many different factors that come into play when choosing kitchen counter tops as they will tie your entire kitchen design together with the use of your set colour scheme. I personally love a clean look for a kitchen. Although granite is a great option, you will have a challenge finding a neutral/light coloured granite. Granite is all about character and a one-of-a-kind look.

There are alternative products on the market that might better suit your look and budget. When you are looking for something specific in light colours, you may opt to look for products such as Quartz counter tops. Quartz is a great alternative to granite and comes in a variety of different styles. It is also very durable and comes in every colour imaginable including white. The product is easy to maintain and usually comes as a “scratch, stain and heat” resistant counter top. Judging by the design elements you have chosen, you will want counter tops that create a statement, yet blend into your overall design. To ensure this, be sure to choose a contrasting colour for your walls. There is nothing worse than having white walls with white counter tops. It’s just too boring for the statement we want to make.

I would also suggest upgrading your lighting. Lighting impacts your overall design and you can’t hide bad lighting, no matter how much money you spend on the rest of your design. Invest in quality fixtures that exude more light than your current fixtures. Light affects your colours and the overall mood of the room. Proper lighting will make your space more appealing to potential buyers. If you have a window in your kitchen, be sure to choose window coverings that allow lots of natural light which will again help with your lighting problem.

Once you have upgraded your counter tops and light fixtures, simply add a few colourful accessories which will bring vibrancy and energy to your space.

Marc Atiyolil is a celebrity designer, home-trend expert and the editor-in-chief of Canadian Home Trends, Canada’s Home Decor Magazine.

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