This Traditional Kitchen Design Maximizes Storage, Prep and Social Space

Traditional kitchen design featuring oak cabinetry.

These homeowners had high expectations for their new traditional kitchen design.

Oak cabinetry and an improved seating area were on "his" wish list. Increased storage space, and a better layout for cooking and food prep topped "her" list of priorities.

Design details

Cabinetry: Shaker cabinets in Urban Effects Oak, Sand

Countertop: Caesarstone in 4255 Creme Brule (Classico collection)

Backsplash: Sarana Tile, Glass and Stone Mosaic (V10GM1V)

Flooring: Torly's EverTile, Pembroke

Storage additions included a pots-and-pans drawer and a pantry.

Traditional kitchen design featuring Caesarstone quartz countertops. 

Traditional kitchen design with Torly's EverTile flooring in Pembroke.

Traditional kitchen design with pantry storage and glass and stone mosaic tile from Sarana Tile.

A Modern, Masculine Bath Design with Boys in Mind

Caesarstone quartz countertop on Urban Effects HDF cabinetry.
Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre.

These homeowners wanted a clean, modern and masculine design for their busy family of boys.

"Although the design has an adult feel, it suits the family with multiple drawers for storage in the vanity and the installation of a new bathtub," says Monarch designer Jackie Schagen.

A hotel-style towel rack adds to the contemporary feel and helps keep the space tidy.

Modern bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre.

Design details

Cabinetry: Shaker cabinets in Urban Effects HDF, Black Bean

Countertop: Caesarstone in 3040 Cement (Classico collection)

Flooring: Sarana Tile, Artwork Acciaio porcelain tile

Artwork Acciaio porcelain tile from Sarana Tile. Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre.

Monarch Designer Janet Dawson Rediscovers Her Passion for Riding and Finds Success in the Saddle

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre designer Janet Dawson

It seems design isn't Janet Dawson's only passion. Riding since she was 10, Janet was on McMaster University's equestrian team but took a break from riding for about 25 years to work on her career and raise a family.

"When I turned 50, I knew that with my children finishing high school and soon moving on to university, I'd have more time to pursue my own interests," says Janet. She decided to get back into riding and purchased a quarter horse to ride for pleasure. "As I got 'back in the saddle,' I found I was really enjoying the riding and decided to get back into competing."

Janet purchased another quarter horse more suited to showing and began preparing to show in the American Quarter Horse (AQHA) circuit. She is currently with JS Quarter Horses of Glencoe, Ontario, and her show horse Lopin Guy (aka Tyler) is housed and trained by Suzanne Pickard and Jason Duquette.

"As Tyler is quite far away, I am only able to see him once a week," explains Janet. "I ride my pleasure horse, Rosco, who I keep at a farm near Uxbridge, at least three times a week and often more closer to show season."

From April to November, Janet participates in shows in Michigan, New York, London, Orangeville, Ancaster and Ottawa. Modern technology has allowed her to integrate her busy show season with a busy work schedule. "When I'm at show, I stay onsite in a travel trailer where I can often be found working on designs, responding to email and talking with my clients."

Janet had a successful first year showing in the AQHA. "I showed in the Rookie Division, which is for new riders to the circuit," explains Janet. She placed first in North America in Rookie Hunter Under Saddle and fourth in North America in English Equitation.

For the 2017 show season, Janet will be showing at a higher level in Hunter Under Saddle - Level 1 Novice Amateur, and still qualifies for the Rookie Division in English Equitation. "I have also added some new events for 2017, including Rookie Horsemanship, Rookie Showmanship and Walk/Jog Trail," says Janet.

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Clients Say it Best on Homestars

Choosing a company you can trust to renovate your home can often be a challenge for homeowners. As kitchen and bath designers for over 35 years, we understand that the best way to put your mind at ease is to let you read what our happy clients have to say and present you with the facts you need to make the decision that's right for you.

From Homestars.com:

My wife wanted her kitchen renovated and after asking around to friends who had had a kitchen renovation we decided to approach Monarch Kitchens to ask for a quote. All of the staff at Monarch kitchens made us feel welcome and took a lot of the stress out of such an intimidating project. Right from the start to the finish the renovation was done in an extremely professional manner. Most people have had scary stories of booking with various contractors who didn't keep their word. Monarch was not like that at all. In a world that says "Buyer Beware" Monarch was a very welcome exception. I can say without a doubt that Monarch has very high ethical values and stood by their word every step of the way. They were always on time, on budget and had excellent workmanship. 10 out of 10 stars to Monarch Kitchens and all of their staff. I have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone wanting professionals to help in home renovations.  

We recently had our kitchen and powder room renovation completed by Monarch Kitchen and Bath. Our first meeting with Monarch was with Kevin, who came by the house to thoroughly reviewed the space and spent much time with us to discuss our vision for the powder room and kitchen renovation. 

Kevin completed 2 design plan options and took the time to go over each of the plans with us. We visited their extensive showroom to make choices for flooring, cabinets, counter-tops, backsplash, and hardware. Kevin was very friendly, patient, and helpful throughout this process and we never felt rushed. He consistently kept us updated on costs in order to ensure we stayed within our budget.

For the most part, the work was completed as outlined on the schedule provided. We were always informed of any change in schedule. Everyone, including the plumbers and electricians, as well as the cabinet, flooring, counter-top, and tile installers were all very professional and addressed any questions and concerns we had in a timely manner. We are extremely happy with our beautiful new kitchen and powder room. Thank you to Kevin, Neil, and each and every member of the Monarch crew for all of your hard work and expertise. We would not hesitate to recommend Monarch to anyone looking to renovate their home.

Why choose Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre?

1. We are experienced and qualified.

Take comfort in the knowledge that all Monarch designers are professionally trained and educated. Monarch has been a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) for over thirty years. The NKBA promotes professionalism and ethical business practices within the kitchen and bath industry, and is committed to helping design professionals create more energy efficient living spaces. 

Monarch is a member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA). The CHBA is committed to a fair and competitive marketplace and provides members with opportunities to learn and grow.

In 2012, Monarch became a Baeumler Approved contractor. Baeumler Approved pre-screens home renovation companies to ensure their references check out and they have all the require insurance and licenses necessary to run their business. They also check with previous customers and the tradespeople and companies they employ on a regular basis to ensure a company they deem “Baeumler Approved” has a solid reputation in the industry and with their clients.

In 2013, Monarch became a RenoMark and BILD Approved contractor. As a RenoMark approved renovator, Monarch is recognized as understanding the value of customer service as well as providing warranties and continually educating ourselves on trends, materials and new regulations.  

The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) encourages innovations and excellence in the planning and building of sustainable communities and the redevelopment and renovation of existing communities. As a BILD approved contractor, Monarch must abide by a strict code of ethics.

2. We understand that our success depends solely on the satisfaction of our clients.

Our primary goal is to help our clients design a space that not only reflects their personal style, but also meets their requirements for function and versatility – now and for years to come. Many of our new clients come to us as a result of referrals. Not only have they walked into a friend or family member’s newly designed space and been blown away by its beauty, they have also learned firsthand about our attention to detail, expert guidance and respect for their time. Click here to read our reviews on HomeStars.

3. We design and renovate homes, cottages and condos!

Monarch offers customized design and renovation services for all rooms in the home, condominium or cottage. This service includes in-home consultations; detailed plans and designs; a written description of the scope of work for each project; computer-generated plans and perspective; "one-stop”shopping on a large range of cabinetry, tile, flooring, and plumbing fixtures; licenced, insured and bonded trades; complete project management; and several lines of cabinetry to cover a range of budget options.

4. We offer concierge services, too!

Monarch offers a concierge service to help our clients manage the many steps and stages involved in a renovation. Our concierge service includes a pack-up service; professional organization; appliance moving; cleaning services; duct and filter cleaning; daily progress reports with pictures or video; product sourcing and interior design and decorating services.

5. We are your long-term renovation partner.

Our commitment to you does not end when your design project is finished. We offer a one-year parts and labour warranty on everything we supply and install. Should something get broken or damaged, we will help you obtain replacement parts. We are always happy to make time for you, your friends and anyone you refer to us.

Why a Designer is Key to the Success of Your Kitchen Renovation

If you’re planning to redesign your kitchen, you may be contemplating the do-it-yourself route. Before you hop in the car and head to your local big box store, consider the benefits of working with a kitchen designer.

Professional kitchen designers are able to translate their client's requirements into a functional kitchen design that reflects both their needs and wants. As trained professionals -- and great listeners -- they are able to get to the heart of the matter and create solutions to problems you may not have even been able to articulate.

Professional designers have comprehensive knowledge in kitchen design, along with construction, plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems. They're trained to see the problems before they occur and plan strategically to not only enhance the beauty of the space but the client experience, as well.

With little or no technical knowledge to base their decisions on, homeowners can quickly become overwhelmed and frustrated. A professional kitchen designer has years of design training and experience and can offer you their professional perspective, sharing the tricks of the trade to maximize your space and get the kitchen you want.

From cabinetry, countertops and storage space to sinks, plumbing and appliances, there are an incredible number of decisions involved in a kitchen renovation. Kitchen designers are trained professionals with extensive knowledge about a variety of products and know how to properly construct and install the materials in your home.

To learn more about how easy it is to work with a Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre designer, visit our FAQ page, or drop by our showroom.

Introducing Cambria's Revolutionary New Matte™ Finish

The stylish matte finish you've been waiting for has arrived! Elegant and silky smooth, Cambria Matte™ finish is available in 16 designs, offering durability, easy-care convenience and the non-absorbency of their high gloss surfaces.

"Cambria doesn't disappoint with its new colours and matte finish," says Monarch designer Janet Dawson. "The matte finish will especially appeal to people who like a more 'industrial' look, as some of the Cambria colours in a matte finish emulate concrete."

Why choose a Cambria counter top? Cambria's natural quartz surfaces are durable, stain-resistant, stronger than granite and non-porous (NSF 51 Certified), making them as safe as stainless steel for food preparation.

"The new colours maintain Cambria's trend of being cutting-edge and innovative when it comes to quartz counter tops and keeps them at the forefront of the industry in terms of new developments," says Janet.

Cambria Matte™ is available in five new designs...

 

...and in 11 timeless collections.

 

Give & Take: This Custom Kitchen Makes Cooking a Priority

Transitional kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

To maximize the kitchen work area, these homeowners parted with their front hall closet.

"In this home, we had the front closet removed to create a more open kitchen and eating area," says Monarch designer Jackie Schagen. To compensate for this, the tall pantry beside the wall ovens hides a closet bar and room for boots and shoes.

"A single sink allows for increased counter top space and a large bowl for the items they choose to hand wash."

And since the homeowners enjoy cooking, they upgraded from a standard range to a separate cook top and wall ovens.

Tall pantry hides a closet bar and a room for boots and shoes.

"Our clients selected the durable Euro Finish cabinets in the Black Magic colour, which we balanced by having a light and bright Caesarstone countertop. The textured herringbone backsplash adds a touch of subtle sophistication," adds Jackie.

Euro Finish kitchen cabinetry in Black Magic.

Caesarstone quartz countertop in Ice Snow

Two New Reasons to Add a BainUltra Therapeutic Bath to Your Home or Condo

OpaliaTM from BainUltra

Who needs a weekend away at a spa when you can enjoy the benefits of a therapeutic bath in your own home?

“Our clients are asking us to take out their big corner tub, not only to allow room for a bigger and more luxurious shower, but to create space for a more sleek freestanding tub," says Monarch designer Kevin Samson. "It’s about creating an escape, an oasis. Often we’re adding a fireplace or TV and a place for a wine glass or candles.”

As the pioneer and inventor of the air-jet bath, BainUltra knows a thing or two about how to relax in style. Recently, they introduced two new freestanding tubs to their collection: Monarch and Opalia™.

Monarch from BainUltra

MONARCH

From bainultra.com:

Monarch is a refined collection of therapeutic baths with distinctive deck surfaces, for a look that’s noble and pure.

Designed to blend with the utmost harmony into luxury condo dwellings, Monarch bath is a graceful innovation for drop-in and alcove settings—an approach to bathroom design that is utterly refined.

This singular collection features radiant, sumptuous quartz deck surfaces in carefully selected enchanting colors combined with the bath inner shell made of 100% pure acrylic of the highest quality.

Monarch from BainUltra

OpaliaTM from BainUltra

OPALIA™

Presenting OpaliaTM, a new collection of exquisitely crafted therapeutic baths with the bold, pure lines of a fascinating opal. Like so many magnificent jewels, OpaliaTM oval baths play on elliptical perfection, with original deck designs that intrigue and delight.

OpaliaTM is available in five distinctive models, each as intriguing as the last. The oval inner shell can be centered, off-centered, or oblique from the center, creating an interplay of ellipses unique to each configuration.

To learn more about incorporating one of BainUltra's luxurious baths into your new bath design, contact Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre at 905-686-2001 or visit our showroom.

Mosaic Tiles Make a Big Impact in This Small Powder Room

Transitional powder room design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

Often overlooked because of its limited size, the powder room can be the perfect space to make a bold design statement with limited investment.

  A Caesarstone countertop and Miralis Euro finish shaker cabinetry add style to this powder room design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

In this transitional powder room design, homeowners combined contemporary mosaic tile backsplash with Miralis Euro finish shaker cabinetry (Ember) for a look that is both eye-catching and inviting.

"Miralis Euro finish doors are an excellent alternative that provides the 'wood look' in a space that blends both traditional and modern door design," says Monarch designer Chantal Miller. 

Bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Design

"By placing the backsplash tile in a vertical pattern, it creates a focal point in a small space and keeps your eye moving all the way up the wall," says Chantal. The alternating textured smoke glass mosaic tiles also effectively reflect the light, making the room look bigger while adding a touch of glamour.

"Flanking wall sconces are an alternative way to place lighting in a powder room and allowed us to place an equally proportional mirror in the space," adds Chantal.

Additional design features include a Caesarstone quartz countertop (Frosty Carrine) and porcelain tile flooring from Sarana Tile.

Luxury Meets Style in This Stunning White Ensuite Bath Design

White bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

By adding square footage to their ensuite bath, these Pickering homeowners were able to make room for both luxury and style.

"This was a significant renovation," says Monarch designer Jackie Schagen. "We took part of the closet to make the bathroom bigger, and then took some of the extra large bedroom space to expand the closet area."

White bath design with Cambria quartz shower by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Standout items in this stunning ensuite bath design include a freestanding tub and a Cambria quartz shower (Summerhill). 

The plain white tile wainscotting and white inset Miralis Euro finish cabinetry provide clean lines in this transitional design. Recessed, wall and ceiling lighting help set the mood.

A soaker tub adds luxury to this white bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Reclaimed Barn Board Makes a Statement in This Contemporary Kitchen Design

White kitchen design with reclaimed barn board by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Homeowners Janis and Steve Wilkes got the inspiration for their recent kitchen renovation from seeing barn board being reused in many kitchen designs.

They searched online and found someone selling off genuine barn board from a barn torn down in Clarington.

"They felt this was an excellent opportunity to breathe new life into material that had a lot of history," says Monarch designer Janet Dawson. "They also appreciated that the demolition crew was working to re-purpose the barn board instead of simply burning it."
 

White kitchen design with reclaimed barn board by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

The Challenge
Incorporate the reclaimed barn board into the new kitchen design without it overwhelming the relatively small space.
 

White kitchen design with reclaimed barn board island by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

The Solution
"We decided to open up the wall between the kitchen and living room and add an island," explains Janet. The repurposed barn board was added to the island's base, making a significant design statement without inundating the space. "Using a fresh, crisp white on most of the cabinetry kept the look light, airy and contemporary."

A sliding "barn door" on the closet provided an additional nod to the barn-inspired design theme.

Monarch Adds a Fresh Take On A Tired Ensuite Bath

En suite bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

These Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre clients were ready to update their ensuite bath from the builder's design to a space they could really enjoy.

Ensuite bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

"When we started planning with them, we realized there was space wasted behind the shower wall," says Monarch designer Jackie Schagen. "We used the unused space to incorporate a larger shower with a seat."

Ensuite bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

The addition of a bench integrated with a grab bar and both a rain and hand-held shower will allow the homeowners to stay in their house as long possible.

"These small but important changes combined with a warm fresh look provide a whole new bathroom experience for our clients," adds Jackie.

Does your outdated ensuite need a makeover? Drop by the Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre showroom for some design inspiration and advice from a member of our knowledgeable design team.

What's New in Bath Design? Here are NKBA's Top 10 Bath Trends for 2017

Last month, the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) published their Top 10 Bath Trends for 2017. Conducted online in August/September 2016, the NKBA surveyed 562 of its members from across North America. Here's a look at the major trends that came out the survey.

1. As with kitchens, contemporary and transitional designs have overtaken traditional styles for the first time.

Shaker is gaining momentum, with mid-century modern emerging. Many survey respondents described clients' tastes as modern, clean and sleek. 

White bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

2. Whites, off-whites and greys continue to be the most popular colour schemes.

Blue is also trending upward, with younger design professionals choosing violet and purple colour schemes. Stainless steel is niche and emerging.

3. Storage solutions such as linen cabinets and wood vanities are most common.

Floating vanites and open shelving continue to be a popular and growing choice. The use of toilet topper cabinets is declining with requests for specialized storage options (custom medicine cabinets, drawers for hair dryers/curling irons, tilt-out hampers) on the rise.

4. Ceramic tile is the most popular floor option for the bath.

High-quality vinyl appears to be on the rise, with wood-look porcelain gaining ground.

5. Undermount sinks are in the most demand.

Use of vessel and pedestal sinks continue to wane, with trough sinks growing in numbers.

6. Freestanding tubs are on the rise.

Essencia Design from BainUltra

Although more than half of NKBA members eliminated a tub or whirlpool in a bath remodel over the past year, 60 per cent of respondents expect to specify more of them in 2017.

"An increase in soaker tub requests is a direct reflection of the lifestyle changes we have seen over the last two decades," says Monarch designer Chantal Miller. "People are spending more and more time commuting, longer hours at work, shuttling kids to activities, and less social down-time outside of the home as a result.

"The idea that your bathroom becomes your private oasis and escape from the chaos is a trend that will only continue to rise. Homes have now become a space for relaxation, reflection, and rejuvenation. Bathrooms are becoming less utilitarian and more about sustaining both your mental and physical health. The popularity of soaker and hydrotherapy tubs is a direct reflection of the trend toward the focus on personal wellness."

7. White fixtures are trending higher while bone-bisque units are declining.

Chrome and polished nickel continue to be the most popular faucet finishes, with gold and brushed brass emerging.

 

Self-cleaning toilet from American Standard

8. Safety- and comfort-improving amenities are still popular.

These include comfort-height toilets, shower seats and lighting, and no-thresold showers. Emerging trends include smart toilets and toilet seats, music in the shower and radiant floor heating.

9. Water-saving toilets and faucets are becoming more mainstream.

 

10. Technology-wise, video, audio and wiring pathways for future integration are beginning to emerge.