Sat, 06 Mar 2010 05:20:08 +0000

By Jonathan Bacon"Transitional" kitchen designs which combine elements from traditional and contemporary styles are the latest trend, an expert has said.Speaking to 27east.com, Scott Smith of Smith River Kitchens in the US, said that these hybrid designs had also extended to new, "ultra-modern" designs.He noted that in kitchen sink areas, backsplashes with traditional painted murals "are gradually fading out of style while small, rectangular backsplashes sans pictures are shifting in".Meanwhile, fellow designer Peg Fruin told the news provider that kitchen cabinets in rustic woods remain popular and can be combined with more modern, ceramic white tiling."People are gravitating toward what's clean and fashionable, but still warm and cozy; the kitchen continues to be the hub of the home," she said.Last month, design advice posted on News Canada claimed that homeowners should let the architectural structure of their property guide them when engaging in kitchen renovations.

1. This architect's loft from Marie Claire Maison is full of good small space ideas—we love the tiny breakfast nook with three mismatched chairs. For a similar look, try a painted bistro table.
2. IKEA's Norden folds from a counter into a two or four-seat kitchen table. For more small space kitchen ideas from IKEA, click here..
3. A Swedish kitchen table is cut to fit flush against the wall, a DIYable design that could be created by cutting down a table top, adding a pedestal, and bolting the piece to the wall.
4. In Dehlia's home, a beautiful square wooden table is just large enough for a chair or two. To find a similar Danish modern piece, scour craigslist and keep an eye out at thrift stores.
5. A tulip table fits snugly into the corner of an attic kitchen. Pedestal tables are a good choice for small spaces where legs could get in the way.

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Photos: Marie Claire Maison, IKEA, Alvhem, Dehlia, Sarah Coffey