Reassurance, Honesty and Authenticity: Dupont Corian's Inspiration for their 2013 New Colour Countertops

In January, Dupont Corian® introduced nine new colour surfaces as part of their 2013 Corian collection. The new colours fall into three main colour trends: Raw, Interference, and Solidify.

“Corian is upping their game in the countertop market with the introduction of nine new colours that are inspired by today’s elemental trends, says Monarch designer Marion Cuddie. “My favourite in this new collection is Seafoam. With its barely there hint of azure under a detail of a frothy wave top, it would be a perfect compliment in a soothing spa en suite.”

From Dupont:

The Corian® Trends: RAW

Raw represents honest luxury, and the fresh hues that follow this trend embody comfort in a down-to-earth aesthetic that offers a respite from daily realities.  Here, organic, yet polished effects are blended to celebrate the natural world and emulate plant materials and other natural fibers that are encased in transparency. 

In the Corian® colors Whipped Cream and Seafoam, soft wheat, butters, lush and heritage greens are highlighted with optic tinted whites, metallic and pearl effects that echo natural surroundings. Colors work together in gradients, reflecting nature’s variation, offering a retreat into the woods, an escape into the environment.

The Corian® Trends: INTERFERENCE

Interference explores the lure of semi-precious stones, with a feeling of sparkle and glamour, yet with an understated opulence that conveys mystical and organic luxury.  Bronze is a key metallic shade and when juxtaposed with subtle finishes and earthy textures, reflects the warm tints of raw sienna and terra cotta. 

In the Corian® colors Pebble and Desert, rich warm browns that lend an aura of comfort to our surroundings are given a subtle shimmer and color variation. Rose marbles, granites with mica, copper and gold flakes are suspended in a semi-transparent focus. 

The Corian® Trends: SOLIDIFY

Solidify was inspired by global climatic changes and how our high-tension atmosphere can create crystallized and frosted solids.  The cool tones of this trend are misted and sensorial, as melded metal and mirrored flecks are set within frosted solids for depth and dimension.  The surfaces are fractured and scattered fragments are fused, creating delicate and ethereal patterns that bring a softly opulent edge to these hard surfaces.   

In the Corian® colors Deep Sea and Luna White, Stardust and Mineral, the smokiest of lilacs and blues allow space to focus after the dust has settled, bringing sophisticated aesthetics to the forefront.  Shadowy ripples with subtle movement enrich the inherent authenticity of Corian®.

To view samples of Corian’s 2013 colour collection, drop by the Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre showroom today -- 1020 Brock Rd., Unit 6, Pickering.  To speak with a member of our design team, call 905-686-2001.

Melissa Foley's NKBA Award-Winning "Medium Kitchen" Design

On Saturday, February 23^rd, the NKBA awarded Monarch designer Melissa Foley with an honourable mention in the category of Medium Kitchen. Here are the details of what went into her winning design.

"As recent empty-nesters, our clients were ready to reclaim their living space and make it their own," says Melissa.

Located in the downtown core, their condominium already had a contemporary feel. But since they entertained frequently, they wanted a design that was a true celebration of this new phase in their lives – meeting their needs for increased traffic flow throughout their living space while updating to a more sophisticated design.

"The couple had differing opinions when it came to the overall style of the space: one wanted a more modern feel that featured off-whites, while the other was hoping for a more traditional design which would include warm wood tones," says Melissa.

"They also wanted to incorporate additional lighting and appliances into their new design. To create more living and entertaining space, a spare bedroom adjacent to the kitchen would be converted into a dining room, ensuring that its design flowed effortlessly with the rest of the living space."

Crown molding was installed throughout the condominium, and wiring was run through the crown to allow for additional appliances, electrical outlets and under-cabinet lighting.

Custom ceiling boxes were added and provide an added design element while allowing lighting fixtures to be centred in both the new kitchen and dining room spaces. 

Marital design harmony was achieved through the use of two tones: cream on the work side of the kitchen and a medium brown on the breakfast side and hutch.

 The cabinetry also represents an effective design compromise with a more modern look on the cream side blending effortlessly into more traditional cabinetry in medium brown.  To accommodate the flow of the crown molding, the breakfast nook and hutch were kept at a different installation height.

Rich granite counter tops and backsplash tie in both tones nicely, as does the new hardwood flooring installed throughout. Matching the crown molding, archway, baseboard and trim colour to the cream cabinetry allowed for all aspects of the living space to flow effortlessly.

“We created a pass-through from the kitchen to the dining room,” adds Melissa. “It’s not only functional but also adds an open, airy feel. The archway opening from the living room into the dining room provides an elegant but not-too-formal touch.”

Two Designer Kitchen Showrooms...Two Completely Different Looks

At Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, we understand how difficult it can be to choose design features for your new kitchen without seeing them first.

When you visit our Pickering showroom, you’ll not only get to speak with a member of our design team, you’ll be able to walk through the variety of kitchens we have on display. Here are two of our favourite – and most popular -- showroom displays.

This exotic veneer kitchen features stainless and frosted glass doors, glass counter tops and backsplash, as well as Caesarstone quartz counter tops with waterfall sides. For a truly modern feel, it’s finished with a restaurant-style hood fan, and a custom glass elevated bar top on the island.

A perfect example of transitional design, this kitchen features traditional elements like crown molding while incorporating several modern elements. The modified shaker doors have a step-down design and are an inviting warm grey – the on-trend neutral colour for 2013. The counter tops quartz in a leather finish. The custom cooktop area has been dropped down for ease-of-use. The kitchen also features a gorgeous custom hood enclosure that keeps the traditional feel alive while remaining modern in its finish.

See these kitchen displays and more at the Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre showroom, 1020 Brock Rd., Unit 6, Pickering. Call 905-686-2001.