Builder Christopher Brun and his brother bought a heritage home in the city’s Mile End neighbourhood with a vision to move in their families and create a space conducive to modern living. The to-do list varied from monumental tasks (excavating 200 tons of bedrock, overhauling plumbing) to the fun stuff (adding tons of natural light and little luxuries like heated floors). But the most compelling part? Seamlessly melding the century-old abode's original charm with contemporary verve.
Bonus: check out the video of this modernized triplex.
Bonus: check out the video of this modernized triplex.
Home Tours
This Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New Design
December 18, 2020
Builder Christopher Brun and his brother bought a heritage home in the city’s Mile End neighbourhood with a vision to move in their families and create a space conducive to modern living. The to-do list varied from monumental tasks (excavating 200 tons of bedrock, overhauling plumbing) to the fun stuff (adding tons of natural light and little luxuries like heated floors). But the most compelling part? Seamlessly melding the century-old abode's original charm with contemporary verve.
Bonus: check out the video of this modernized triplex.
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Love Island
1/20Love Island
1/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The kitchen in Christopher's brother's unit features a showstopper island crafted from a carefully considered material. “I opted for quartzite as it is very practical and resistant to wear-and-tear, yet, at the same time, stunning,” says Christopher. Its veining imparts visual interest in the pale colour scheme. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/kitchens/photos/kitchen-countertops-that-increase-home-value-1925713/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kitchen Counter Upgrades That Will Increase the Value of Your Home</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignLove Island
PHOTO 1 of 20READ LESS -The kitchen in Christopher's brother's unit features a showstopper island crafted from a carefully considered material. “I opted for quartzite as it is very practical and resistant to wear-and-tear, yet, at the same time, stunning,” says Christopher. Its veining imparts visual interest in the pale colour scheme. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/kitchens/photos/kitchen-countertops-that-increase-home-value-1925713/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kitchen Counter Upgrades That Will Increase the Value of Your Home</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Material World
2/20Material World
2/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The kitchen’s cabinets are crafted from Fenix, an innovative, anti-fingerprint material that is highly resistant to scratches. “This is a very practical finish and especially suits my brother’s very curious toddler,” says Christopher. The integrated range hood seamlessly blends into the space, while the smattering of plants feels lively, a perk during Montreal’s long winter months. The engineered white oak flooring boasts radiant heating, another warm touch. <br><Br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/green-living/photos/plants-child-pet-safe-1913786/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">20 Plants That Are Safe for Children, Cats and Dogs</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignMaterial World
PHOTO 2 of 20READ LESS -The kitchen’s cabinets are crafted from Fenix, an innovative, anti-fingerprint material that is highly resistant to scratches. “This is a very practical finish and especially suits my brother’s very curious toddler,” says Christopher. The integrated range hood seamlessly blends into the space, while the smattering of plants feels lively, a perk during Montreal’s long winter months. The engineered white oak flooring boasts radiant heating, another warm touch. <br><Br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/green-living/photos/plants-child-pet-safe-1913786/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">20 Plants That Are Safe for Children, Cats and Dogs</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Best of Both
3/20Best of Both
3/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The triplex’s stunning staircase is another design feature that Christopher carefully planned and realized. “This connects the old rooms of the third floor to the new addition,” he says. “I wanted a form that would at once be classic, while also feeling timeless. The staircase ties two time periods together, while not appearing out of place in either space.” The Glo-ball pendant light from Flos furthers its sinuous curves. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/staircase-ideas-statement-1936133/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Staircase Ideas That Will Make a Statement in Your Home</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignBest of Both
PHOTO 3 of 20READ LESS -The triplex’s stunning staircase is another design feature that Christopher carefully planned and realized. “This connects the old rooms of the third floor to the new addition,” he says. “I wanted a form that would at once be classic, while also feeling timeless. The staircase ties two time periods together, while not appearing out of place in either space.” The Glo-ball pendant light from Flos furthers its sinuous curves. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/staircase-ideas-statement-1936133/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Staircase Ideas That Will Make a Statement in Your Home</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Personal Effect
4/20Personal Effect
4/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
A colourful horsehead sculpture, a travel memento, adds just the right amount of splashy colour and quirky interest. We love how its hand-crafted playfulness contrasts the architectural importance of the staircase. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/living-rooms/photos/living-room-wall-art-beyond-paintings-photos-1933906/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Awesome Wall Art That Makes a Statement (Beyond Paintings and Photos!)</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignPersonal Effect
PHOTO 4 of 20READ LESS -A colourful horsehead sculpture, a travel memento, adds just the right amount of splashy colour and quirky interest. We love how its hand-crafted playfulness contrasts the architectural importance of the staircase. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/living-rooms/photos/living-room-wall-art-beyond-paintings-photos-1933906/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Awesome Wall Art That Makes a Statement (Beyond Paintings and Photos!)</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Wood Works
5/20Wood Works
5/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The home’s use of innovative materials extends to the top deck which is clad in Kebony, an eco-friendly, durable wood. “It’s safe for the baby to crawl on and does not leach chemicals into the waterways,” say Christopher. “It also has a tiny carbon footprint, compared to the tropical rainforest alternatives.” Bonus: it requires very little maintenance. “The grasses are all endemic species that are tough enough to handle the exposure of a rooftop with minimal maintenance.” <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/home-tours/photos/eco-conscious-montreal-colour-1931499/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">This Eco-Conscious Montreal Home Definitely Isn’t Afraid of Colour</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignWood Works
PHOTO 5 of 20READ LESS -The home’s use of innovative materials extends to the top deck which is clad in Kebony, an eco-friendly, durable wood. “It’s safe for the baby to crawl on and does not leach chemicals into the waterways,” say Christopher. “It also has a tiny carbon footprint, compared to the tropical rainforest alternatives.” Bonus: it requires very little maintenance. “The grasses are all endemic species that are tough enough to handle the exposure of a rooftop with minimal maintenance.” <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/home-tours/photos/eco-conscious-montreal-colour-1931499/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">This Eco-Conscious Montreal Home Definitely Isn’t Afraid of Colour</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Old Meets New
6/20Old Meets New
6/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The upright piano strikes just the right note here. We love the mix of original details, especially the fantastic columns that support an original, classic archway, and how that shape is echoed in a new archway. “It’s a simple architectural gesture with impact,” says Christopher. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/shows/save-my-reno/photos/save-my-reno-century-home-feel-new-1936442/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Save My Reno</em> Makes a Century-Old Home Feel New</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignOld Meets New
PHOTO 6 of 20READ LESS -The upright piano strikes just the right note here. We love the mix of original details, especially the fantastic columns that support an original, classic archway, and how that shape is echoed in a new archway. “It’s a simple architectural gesture with impact,” says Christopher. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/shows/save-my-reno/photos/save-my-reno-century-home-feel-new-1936442/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Save My Reno</em> Makes a Century-Old Home Feel New</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Seating Plan
7/20Seating Plan
7/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
“This window bench was a little surprise I designed for my brother and sister-in-law,” says Christopher. “I wanted a space for them to hide their cat’s effects. The bench top actually lifts up. On one side the cat’s litter box is hidden, and on the other side there is storage for food and litter.”Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignSeating Plan
PHOTO 7 of 20READ LESS -“This window bench was a little surprise I designed for my brother and sister-in-law,” says Christopher. “I wanted a space for them to hide their cat’s effects. The bench top actually lifts up. On one side the cat’s litter box is hidden, and on the other side there is storage for food and litter.”Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Keep it Simple
8/20Keep it Simple
8/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
Floor-to-ceiling tiles (no dry wall here!) craft a practical bathroom and we love the way the windows' ledges act as built-in storage. Cladding the tub with slabs of tile gives it an elevated look while a striped rug layers in pattern and texture. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/bathrooms/photos/gorgeous-bathroom-tiles-1916954/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gorgeous Bathroom Tiles You Need in Your Life</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignKeep it Simple
PHOTO 8 of 20READ LESS -Floor-to-ceiling tiles (no dry wall here!) craft a practical bathroom and we love the way the windows' ledges act as built-in storage. Cladding the tub with slabs of tile gives it an elevated look while a striped rug layers in pattern and texture. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/bathrooms/photos/gorgeous-bathroom-tiles-1916954/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gorgeous Bathroom Tiles You Need in Your Life</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Faux Finish
9/20Faux Finish
9/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
“The house had always had a faux fireplace and it came with some gaudy glowing lights,” says Christopher, who nixed the gaudy and kept the good. “I opted to keep the form in the space, but turned it into an element that is simple and serves to anchor the room.” He designed the cool coffee table using live-edge walnut slabs. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/living-rooms/photos/12-gorgeous-home-decor-ideas-for-styling-an-empty-living-room-fireplace-1943271/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gorgeous Home Decor Ideas for Styling an Empty Living Room Fireplace</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignFaux Finish
PHOTO 9 of 20READ LESS -“The house had always had a faux fireplace and it came with some gaudy glowing lights,” says Christopher, who nixed the gaudy and kept the good. “I opted to keep the form in the space, but turned it into an element that is simple and serves to anchor the room.” He designed the cool coffee table using live-edge walnut slabs. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/living-rooms/photos/12-gorgeous-home-decor-ideas-for-styling-an-empty-living-room-fireplace-1943271/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gorgeous Home Decor Ideas for Styling an Empty Living Room Fireplace</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Mix it Up
10/20Mix it Up
10/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The mix of furniture styles in the living room of Christopher’s brother's unit feels welcoming. A comfy sofa with plush cushions shares the narrow space with vintage chairs that have a more structured silhouette. We love how the TV is hung opposite the fireplace – not above it – making it less of a focal point but still easy to see.Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignMix it Up
PHOTO 10 of 20READ LESS -The mix of furniture styles in the living room of Christopher’s brother's unit feels welcoming. A comfy sofa with plush cushions shares the narrow space with vintage chairs that have a more structured silhouette. We love how the TV is hung opposite the fireplace – not above it – making it less of a focal point but still easy to see.Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Glass Act
11/20Glass Act
11/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The charming stained-glass windows are original and over 100 years old. They’re not only pretty, but super practical. “The previous owner had them sent away to be restored and converted into thermal windows to help with our extremely cold winters,” says Christopher.Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignGlass Act
PHOTO 11 of 20READ LESS -The charming stained-glass windows are original and over 100 years old. They’re not only pretty, but super practical. “The previous owner had them sent away to be restored and converted into thermal windows to help with our extremely cold winters,” says Christopher.Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Clearly Beautiful
12/20Clearly Beautiful
12/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
Christopher designed this sleek glass door and had a local craftsman make it. Its slightly curved top echoes the space’s archways and keeps the view open and airy. We love the detail on the baseboards and the mix of art, which is all hung at the same level for continuity and impact. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/foolproof-guide-hanging-pictures-1940485/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">A Foolproof Guide to Hanging Your Pictures Perfectly, Every Time</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignClearly Beautiful
PHOTO 12 of 20READ LESS -Christopher designed this sleek glass door and had a local craftsman make it. Its slightly curved top echoes the space’s archways and keeps the view open and airy. We love the detail on the baseboards and the mix of art, which is all hung at the same level for continuity and impact. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/foolproof-guide-hanging-pictures-1940485/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">A Foolproof Guide to Hanging Your Pictures Perfectly, Every Time</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Space Saver
13/20Space Saver
13/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
In one of the dining areas, an otherwise unused wall is transformed using integrated custom cabinetry that provides ample storage. A contemporary <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/the-10-most-popular-pendant-lights-1052564/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pendant light</a> illuminates the modern dining table and chairs. The look is sparse, yet inviting.Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignSpace Saver
PHOTO 13 of 20READ LESS -In one of the dining areas, an otherwise unused wall is transformed using integrated custom cabinetry that provides ample storage. A contemporary <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/the-10-most-popular-pendant-lights-1052564/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pendant light</a> illuminates the modern dining table and chairs. The look is sparse, yet inviting.Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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A True Melange
14/20A True Melange
14/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The old saying “use what you've got” is definitely at play in this bedroom. “The furnishings are from all over,” says Christopher. “The desk was inherited by my girlfriend from her father. The desk lamp is from Restauration Hardware. The chair is from Structube and the faux throw was a gift.”Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignA True Melange
PHOTO 14 of 20READ LESS -The old saying “use what you've got” is definitely at play in this bedroom. “The furnishings are from all over,” says Christopher. “The desk was inherited by my girlfriend from her father. The desk lamp is from Restauration Hardware. The chair is from Structube and the faux throw was a gift.”Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Window Seat
15/20Window Seat
15/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
A classic Eames chair and stool cultivate a contemporary vibe that feels fresh against a heritage backdrop. We love how their wooden frames echo the windows’ natural wood trim. A neutral-toned rug nicely softens the stone floors and subtly demarcates the main seating area.Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignWindow Seat
PHOTO 15 of 20READ LESS -A classic Eames chair and stool cultivate a contemporary vibe that feels fresh against a heritage backdrop. We love how their wooden frames echo the windows’ natural wood trim. A neutral-toned rug nicely softens the stone floors and subtly demarcates the main seating area.Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Simply Warm
16/20Simply Warm
16/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
This dining area brims with warm heritage style and, thanks to beautiful original columns, needs very little embellishing. We love the pared-back styling – an empty tabletop, a sleek pendant light – and how it keeps the original backdrop a focal point. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/dining-rooms/photos/incredible-celebrity-dining-rooms-1935371/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Incredible Celebrity Dining Rooms You'll Want to Have a Feast In</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignSimply Warm
PHOTO 16 of 20READ LESS -This dining area brims with warm heritage style and, thanks to beautiful original columns, needs very little embellishing. We love the pared-back styling – an empty tabletop, a sleek pendant light – and how it keeps the original backdrop a focal point. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/dining-rooms/photos/incredible-celebrity-dining-rooms-1935371/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Incredible Celebrity Dining Rooms You'll Want to Have a Feast In</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Going Grey
17/20Going Grey
17/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
This contemporary bathroom is filled with inspirational details. We love the neat mix of space and discreet toilet placement, the way the simple tub is framed in and the generous use of tile (even in the window frame). Though cool grey, there is something undeniably warm and welcoming about this space. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/bathrooms/photos/modern-bathroom-design-ideas-1941096/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">These Modern Bathroom Design Ideas Have Major Staying Power</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignGoing Grey
PHOTO 17 of 20READ LESS -This contemporary bathroom is filled with inspirational details. We love the neat mix of space and discreet toilet placement, the way the simple tub is framed in and the generous use of tile (even in the window frame). Though cool grey, there is something undeniably warm and welcoming about this space. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/bathrooms/photos/modern-bathroom-design-ideas-1941096/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">These Modern Bathroom Design Ideas Have Major Staying Power</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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For Two
18/20For Two
18/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
"This floating vanity was designed to be generous in terms of space," says Christopher. "My girlfriend and I wanted to be able to both get ready without stepping on each other’s toes." Wall-mounted faucets further the sleek design and the backlit mirror suffuses the room with flattering, warm light.Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignFor Two
PHOTO 18 of 20READ LESS -"This floating vanity was designed to be generous in terms of space," says Christopher. "My girlfriend and I wanted to be able to both get ready without stepping on each other’s toes." Wall-mounted faucets further the sleek design and the backlit mirror suffuses the room with flattering, warm light.Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Local Resources
19/20Local Resources
19/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
"The slabs that make up this kitchen's counter and backsplash are St. Marc stone," says Christopher. "It's a stone that has been quarried in the areas around Montreal for centuries. Traditionally, its been used for the base of buildings throughout the city. I thought it would be interesting to take it inside." And how interesting is that pendant light over the island?Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignLocal Resources
PHOTO 19 of 20READ LESS -"The slabs that make up this kitchen's counter and backsplash are St. Marc stone," says Christopher. "It's a stone that has been quarried in the areas around Montreal for centuries. Traditionally, its been used for the base of buildings throughout the city. I thought it would be interesting to take it inside." And how interesting is that pendant light over the island?Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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Lighting is Everything
20/20Lighting is Everything
20/20Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
The minimalist look of this kitchen was very intentional. "The light cove over the counter helps light up the workspace, as well as wash the stone in warm light. I also decided to hide the plugs in this cove, which keeps the backsplash looking clean," says Christopher. The walnut cabinetry effectively plays off the cool stone, and plays up the warmth of the lighting. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/kitchens/photos/backsplash-tile-cabinetry-top-kitchen-trends-2021-1942522/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Backsplash, Tile, Cabinetry: The 15 Top Kitchen Trends for 2021</a>Home ToursThis Montreal Triplex Makes a Compelling Case for Old-Meets-New DesignLighting is Everything
PHOTO 20 of 20READ LESS -The minimalist look of this kitchen was very intentional. "The light cove over the counter helps light up the workspace, as well as wash the stone in warm light. I also decided to hide the plugs in this cove, which keeps the backsplash looking clean," says Christopher. The walnut cabinetry effectively plays off the cool stone, and plays up the warmth of the lighting. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/kitchens/photos/backsplash-tile-cabinetry-top-kitchen-trends-2021-1942522/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Backsplash, Tile, Cabinetry: The 15 Top Kitchen Trends for 2021</a>Photo Credit: Stephanie FodenSource: www.stephaniefoden.com
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