Designer Jackie Glass features Silestone and Dekton in #TheGlassProject
Tags: Kitchen, kitchen countertop, news and events | 6 years ago | Written by: Cosentino
Jackie Glass, Principal Designer of Jackie Glass Inc. and Canadian celebrity designer on Cityline, recently completed #TheGlassProject, a total redesign of her 60’s-style bungalow set on 12-acres of breathtaking property in the heart of Ontario wine country. Jackie added approximately 1,000 square feet to her new modern home, designing such elements as an open-concept kitchen, a functional pantry, an ensuite bathroom, and a laundry/mud room complete with a doggy spa. We sat down with Jackie to talk about the inspiration behind the modern design of her new home that features Dekton and Silestone in a multitude of applications –from countertops and wall cladding to flooring!
Where did you find your design inspiration for #TheGlassProject?
My design inspiration for The Glass Project was the mid-century style of the original house and its beautiful natural surroundings. I wanted to retain the integrity of its architecture and found the inspiration to help accomplish this from the minimalist design aesthetic of American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
What is the favourite part of your newly designed home?
The floor-to-ceiling picture windows capture breathtaking views on all four sides of the house. My favourite architectural feature, the windows, offer magnificent ever-changing vistas from one season to the next.
Would you do it all again?
I would! While any renovation is not for the faint of heart, I believe it was time to bring the original house into the 21st century while respecting its history, architecture, and natural setting.
What do you like about using Silestone/Dekton for your surfaces?
Besides creating a statement, choosing Dekton and Silestone for my floors, countertops and fireplace surrounds, offered durable, easy-maintenance finishes for my busy home without sacrificing style. I love the wide variety of patterns and colours that helped achieve both dramatic and subtle looks.
What was the inspiration behind the redesign of your kitchen?
As an avid cook with a large family and three active dogs, I wanted a bright, spacious kitchen where everyone could gather comfortably. Silestone Ariel tops all the counter surfaces in the kitchen including the breakfast bar and two islands for a seamless look that’s light, airy, and a breeze to maintain.
What is your favourite part about the new kitchen?
l love my walk-in pantry. I positioned it outside my kitchen proper just behind the appliance wall. Along with floor-to-ceiling open shelves and cupboards, I also added a small beverage bar featuring a Silestone Ariel countertop that comes in handy for preparing snacks and beverages when entertaining.
What do you consider the most essential element to create a great kitchen?
A well-planned layout is crucial for a free-flowing, spacious kitchen designed for more than one cook and entertaining family and friends in comfort and style. High quality finishes like countertops and flooring, are key to the longevity and performance of any size kitchen.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering remodeling their kitchen?
If the kitchen is where you spend most of your time with family cooking, dining and entertaining, think as big as your budget and space will allow. Choose easy-to-maintain, durable work surfaces in timeless, simple designs. Hiring a reputable kitchen designer who is well connected with a team of reliable trades, contractors, and suppliers will save you money, time and disappointment.
Why did you choose to clad the fireplace wall using Dekton?
For a more modern natural vibe, I chose sleek Dekton in Sirius to cover the dated pink and gray fieldstone cladding to create a dramatic focal point in both the dining and living rooms.
What is your favourite design element of your living room?
My favourite design element in #TheGlassProject living room is definitely the long, linear electric fireplace inset into the Dekton Sirius surround. Turned on in the evenings and rainy grey days, its mesmerizing flames brings warmth, comfort, and calm over the entire space.
Were there any challenges in redesigning your living room?
As my original design evolved during the renovation, one important change was made. I moved the games room to the basement and used this stunning space for my living room that opens to the large kitchen. It’s now where everyone gets comfortable around the fire and can enjoy the ever-changing views through the grand picture windows. I really feel like I’m living in the trees!
What lead you to use Dekton as the surface material for your stairs?
Durable Dekton in Kairos floors made perfect sense for my high-traffic foyer. The main entrance for my three dogs, guests and family, it takes just minutes to clean the floor with a damp mop. I used the same colour on the adjoining stairs down to the sunken dining room to create visual flow.
Can you tell us a bit about the design of your bathroom?
My master ensuite bathroom is bathed in natural light and has a gorgeous view of the natural surroundings. I created the simplicity of a spa-style white bathroom that features soft-gloss white cabinets and the same Silestone in White Zeus Extreme pattern on both the walls and countertop for a serene and soothing look.
For more information on Jackie Glass or #TheGlassProject, visit: https://jackieglass.ca/
Photos by Paul Chmielowiec, paulc.ca
