Brenda Brix, AMR Design
We made a mistake in the July/August story about the kitchen design winners, wrongly identifying Brenda Brix’s design firm. She is with AMR Design. Alair Homes was the contractor. Cabinets and countertops were supplied by Waygood’s Kitchens. Thank you for all the mail pointing out the error.
Best Renovation
Brenda Brix, AMR Design
Our clients were in need of a space where they could entertain but would also be somewhat separated from the formal living and formal dining rooms. The goal of this renovation was to create custom storage solutions and to highlight the views from the window’s ample natural light with a classic mid-century modern feel.
We relocated an oversized laundry room to the second floor in order to expand the once tiny closed-off kitchen into a functional open space with a walk-in pantry with closed door storage, wine fridge and a drop zone for their family.
The star of this room is the handmade heath tile in a watery blue colour. This feature includes a walnut surround that was practical in that it hid the electrical and mechanical elements while also framing the feature tile wall and creating a frame for the windows.
Another feature was the coffee bar space which houses a custom waste centre, complete with space for recycling and compost, and a display for the pottery collection. The clients also wanted to ensure that they were making energy efficient choices in this renovation and as such, we used LED lighting, Energy Star rated appliances and quartz counter tops along with other high-end, built to last materials.
What the judges said:
“They worked within a somewhat awkward space yet achieved efficiency and created a specific identity.”
“They didn’t overdo display and worked around the windows well.”
“There are some nice touches—light fixtures, the coffee area, the visual textures work well together.”
“Like the setup of the seating area in the kitchen.”