Lucie Pitt, Author at Versa Style Design

Oct 03 2026

Guide and Cabinet Trends for 2026 and 2027

There is a huge demand for organized and functional living spaces. These include kitchens, bathrooms, living and dining rooms, play zones, home offices, basements, and laundry areas. In fact, as I write this, I am currently designing custom storage units and benches for a couple of mudrooms and entryways.

Frankly, getting clutter out of the way once and for all is the only road to creating flow for a busy family that needs a soul-nurturing home, not one that contributes to frenzied and panicked searches for lost items as people dash out the door.

Naturally, in every interior design project, we are requested to design and integrate storage solutions that tick off all the boxes. These include different types of modules and cabinets that divide and conquer the clutter. Designing the functional components is one thing.

The next step involves selecting the materials for the units. There are so many options out there, that I decided to create a document I could share with my clients who are in the designing and selections phase. They appreciated it so much that I decided to share it with the public.
In this article, I have ordered the cabinet materials according to price range (lower to higher) and I have separated the description of the core material to the surface material. Nobody seems to go this far in the explaining process, yet it’s very important.
Here, then, is my helpful and detailed guide through the world of cabinetry.

Melamine Cabinets

Price Range: $

Durability: Medium

Core material: Press-wood (also known as particle or chip board). Press wood is inexpensive because it is made with sawmill shavings and wood chips. High quality press wood can be sturdy and durable. In addition to the facades of doors and drawers, it is often used for the interiors of cabinets in more expensive projects, because it is lightweight and sturdy.

Surface material: A single layer of decorative paper veneer pressed-glued to the core with a resin layer for protection.
Styles: Not your laminate from the 80s. This is a new and evolved better looking product. Many styles to choose from including imitation wood, high gloss or matte finishes, multiple patterns, and textures, as well as solid colours and neutrals.

European Melamine (or Euro-laminate) Cabinets

Price Range: $$

Durability: Good

Core & surface material: Engineered and imported from Europe it is composed of many layers of decorative paper saturated in melamine resin. The multiple layers are fused together to create a highly durable cabinet. Much more robust than regular melamine.

Styles: Wide variety of colours and textures. Only available in modern profile (Flat-panel doors). Imitation woods look very realistic – textured. High gloss/ matte finishes available. This material can look high-end and is commonly used in commercial settings.

Polyester Melamine

Price Range: $$

Durability: High

Core material: MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is very high quality and environmentally friendly. It is composed of a mix of compressed pine fibers, sawdust, resin, and wax that is formed into sheets by applying a high temperature and pressure. Light weight but very smooth and very strong.

Surface material: Composed of melamine enveloped with a highly durable polyester film. More robust than regular melamine.
Styles: Variety of door profiles, realistic imitation wood as well as solid colours, various textures and neutrals

Thermofoil

Also known as Thermally Fused Laminate (TFL) or Thermally Fused Melamine (TFM)

Price Range: $$$

Durability: High

Core material: MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is very high quality and environmentally friendly. It is composed of a mix of compressed pine fibers, sawdust, resin and wax that is formed into sheets by applying a high temperature and pressure.

Surface material: A film of PVC plastic is thermo-fused; involves heat-bonding and vacuum-forming onto the core. Easy to clean. Extremely durable and resistant to dents, heat, steam, moisture.
Styles: Wide variety of solid colors or neutrals, imitation wood, and many door profile models.

Acrylic Cabinets

Price Range: $$$

Durability: High

Surface material: Acrylic is a glass-like high gloss acrylic sheet. The surface is perfect and texture-free. There is no ‘orange-peel’ effect on these high-gloss doors. It also has a UV protection agent preserving the tone long-term regardless of sun exposure.
Styles: Acrylic cabinets are minimalist and sleek, and very modern. Available in a multitude of solid colours or neutrals.

Painted Lacquer

Price Range: $$$$

Durability: High

Core material: MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is very high quality and environmentally friendly. It is composed of a mix of compressed pine fibers, sawdust, resin, and wax and is formed into sheets by applying a high temperature and pressure. Very light weight yet strong.

Surface material: High-quality 2-pot spray-paint system with a multiple step process; layers upon layers of Polyurethane finish, polished between coats. Lacquer finishes are super tough, and highly durable and they do not flake. Lacquer surfaces are chip-resistant and moisture-resistant.
Styles: Paint colour choices are unlimited and 100% customizable with either matte, satin, or high-gloss finishes.

Natural Hard Wood

Price Range: $$$$$

Durability: High

Core material: Hardwood species that are available include Birch, Pine, White or Red Oak, Ash, Cherry, Hickory, and Hard Maple. Should be kiln dried.

Natural trees move, twist or warp with the changing climate during summer and winter months.
Wood is very heavy and expensive. Consider using solid wood on the facades, but MDF or plywood for the other parts to lighten the load as well as the cost of the project.

Surface treatment: In Canada avoid painting solid wood core doors as the paint will crack when the wood expands and contracts during the changing temperature and humidity levels throughout summer and winter. For this reason, a clear coat seal or a tinted stain is better for solid wood cabinet doors as the cracks won’t show up like they do with paint.

Considerations: Be aware that there is tone and grain variation from one panel to the next when using natural hardwood. There is no factory to equalize the grain and tone of all the panels. This fact should be embraced and appreciated.

Styles: The recommended door profile is Shaker (for solidity). The species should be chosen based on wood-grain, the characteristics and durability, as well as cost. Because there is a lot of tonal variations in a single wood species (especially White Oak), insist that the cabinet maker provide you with an example of these variations. Have many samples stained in the same colour, so you can evaluate the variations.

Natural Wood Veneer

Price Range: $$$$$

Durability: Medium

Core material: Rather than a solid wood core, it is composed of MDF, Plywood or Press wood. Therefore ‘wood veneer’ cabinets don’t weigh as much as ‘solid wood’ cabinets. Because the substrate is not solid wood, there is no warping with changing temperature and humidity levels.

Surface material: A very thin layer of solid hardwood (less than 2 mm thickness) is peeled from a log and glued-pressed to the core material. Because of the cost of natural wood veneer, the application is limited to the facades as a ‘finish’ material, with a more robust and functional material used for the box frames and the insides of the drawers and cabinets.
Considerations: Because of the substrate it can be susceptible to water damage. If water gets past the veneer, it may expand and cause the edge of the veneer to peel. Also, wood veneer surfaces can be scratched, but also easy to repair.

The lower edges of wood veneer cabinets are prone to chipping near the kick-board. If this happens and it is caught early, it won’t worsen. You can also opt for a slightly higher kick-board.

As a precautionary alternative, the outside panels of 5-piece doors can be composed of hardwood instead of veneer. The veneer would be applied only the central panel.

Styles: Wood veneer options include exotic woods such as bamboo, walnut, elm, eucalyptus, and mahogany at a fraction of the cost of solid-core exotic wood. Wood veneer cabinets should be chosen out of a love for natural wood grain with varying tones and textures. If you are looking for a homogeneous and consistent look throughout the cabinetry, you should choose another material: Such as high-quality engineered products possessing life-like realistic qualities.

You would like to adopt some of these ideas in your own space but you don’t know where to start?

Contact us to transform your home or office according to your style, your budget and your specific needs. By discussing your project we can provide you with relevant information concerning our services, the process and our design fee.

Click here to contact us.

Oct 03 2026

Basement Design Trends for 2026 and 2027

Basement designs are embracing a blend of functionality, comfort, and style, transforming once-overlooked spaces into vibrant extensions of the home. Modern trends emphasize open layouts with multifunctional zones, including home offices, entertainment lounges, fitness areas, and guest suites.

Natural light is maximized through larger egress windows and light wells, while warm, earthy tones and sustainable materials create a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. Overall, 2027 basement designs reflect a shift toward making every square foot of the home both beautiful and practical.

Here are Some Key Basement Design Ideas

Home Gyms

Setting up a home gym in the basement with heated floor tiles creates a comfortable and inviting workout space year-round.

The heated tiles not only keep the area warm during colder months but also help reduce moisture and dampness often found in basements, making the environment healthier and more pleasant. When designing the space, it’s important to choose durable, non-slip tiles that can handle the weight of gym equipment and the impact of exercises. Adding mirrors, good lighting, and proper ventilation will further enhance the gym’s functionality and atmosphere, turning the basement into a personal fitness retreat.

Design credit: Versa Style Design
See portfolio

Guest Bedrooms

Creating a guest bedroom in the basement offers a wonderful opportunity to provide a private, cozy retreat for visitors. Start by ensuring the space is dry, well-insulated, and properly ventilated for year-round comfort. Use warm, neutral colors on the walls and soft, layered lighting—think floor lamps, bedside sconces, and dimmable overhead fixtures—to counterbalance the naturally lower light levels.

A comfortable bed with quality linens is essential, and adding plush rugs will warm up cold floors while enhancing the inviting feel. Include practical touches like a small dresser or closet space, a mirror, and nightstands with charging ports. Thoughtful extras like blackout curtains and fresh towels will make the basement guest room feel like a boutique hotel stay.

Play Zone

Setting up a fun and functional play zone for children in the basement combines creativity with smart planning to make the space both exciting and safe.

Start by selecting soft, durable flooring like foam tiles or a carpet to cushion active play. Bright, cheerful colors on the walls and plenty of good lighting—both natural and artificial—help create an inviting atmosphere. Divide the area into zones: a reading nook with bean bags, an arts-and-crafts station with washable surfaces, and an open area for active games or a mini indoor jungle gym. Built-in storage solutions like cubbies, bins, and wall-mounted shelves keep toys organized and clutter at bay.

Design credit: Versa Style Design
See portfolio

Bar Area

A stylish basement bar creates a sophisticated space for entertaining. Wet bars with quartz countertops, custom shelving, and wine fridges make serving drinks easy and elegant. Brass or matte black fixtures, Edison-style accent lighting, and high stools complete the lounge vibe. Adding rich and cozy textures such as wood panelling and leather are very popular options creating a prohibition era speak easy space.

Home Theater

A basement home theater can be transformed into a cozy entertainment hub with a few thoughtful ideas. Start with dark, sound-absorbing wall colors or acoustic panels to enhance sound quality and create a cinematic vibe. Install a large projector screen or an ultra-HD TV, paired with a surround sound system for an immersive experience.

Plush, tiered seating or reclining chairs will maximize comfort, while LED strip lighting along the floor or ceiling adds ambiance without glare. For extra flair, consider adding a snack bar with a popcorn machine and mini fridge, or even themed decor to reflect your favorite movies or genres.

Family Den

Designing a family den and TV room in the basement is a great way to create a comfortable, go-to space for relaxation and entertainment. Start by focusing on cozy seating—sectional sofas, recliners, and oversized bean bags are ideal for accommodating family movie nights or casual hangouts.

Design credit: Versa Style Design
See portfolio

Choose a large-screen TV or projector setup paired with a quality sound system to elevate the viewing experience. Warm, ambient lighting, such as dimmable recessed lights and table lamps, helps balance the typically lower basement light levels and sets the right mood. Use plush area rugs and soft textiles like throws and cushions to make the space feel inviting and insulated from any chill.

Additional Bathroom

Adding an additional bathroom during a basement renovation is a smart upgrade that boosts both convenience and home value. It’s important to plan carefully around plumbing access, typically positioning the bathroom near existing water and sewer lines to minimize costs. Opt for space-efficient fixtures like a smaller sink and a compact toilet to make the most of limited square footage, and consider a walk-in shower instead of a bulky tub. Good ventilation and moisture control are essential in basement bathrooms, so include a powerful exhaust fan and waterproof materials. With thoughtful design, this new bathroom will make the basement more functional and comfortable for guests as well as the entire family.

Design credit: Versa Style Design
See portfolio

Laundry Room

Adding a laundry room to your basement design is a fantastic way to create an efficient, organized space that keeps household chores out of sight while optimizing functionality.

Design credit: Versa Style Design
See portfolio

Custom cabinetry can be tailored to store detergents and cleaning supplies, keeping everything neatly tucked away. Incorporate plenty of storage with tall linen closets for towels and bedding, overhead cabinets, and deep drawers to maximize every inch. A hideaway ironing board offers convenience without taking up valuable space, while sturdy hanging rods or wall-mounted racks provide ample room for air-drying clothes. Install spacious folding counters in durable, easy-to-clean materials, giving you plenty of surface area to sort and fold laundry with ease. Bright, layered lighting—including overhead fixtures and task lights—ensures the room feels inviting and practical, even in a basement setting.

Clever Storage Solutions

Designing functional storage solutions for a basement is all about maximizing space while keeping things organized and accessible. Custom cabinetry is especially effective, with built-ins tailored to fit awkward areas like beneath the stairs—perfect for storing seasonal items, cleaning supplies, or even creating a hidden nook for hobbies.

Floor-to-ceiling shelving units, labeled bins, and closed cabinets help keep clutter out of sight while making everything easy to find. Incorporating a mix of open and closed storage allows you to display items like books or décor while tucking away less attractive essentials.

Teen Retreat

Transforming a basement into a teen retreat for chilling and gaming is a fantastic way to create a dedicated space where teens can relax and have fun with friends.

Start by focusing on comfort — cozy couches, bean bags, and soft rugs will make the space inviting. For gaming, set up a large-screen TV or projector, along with a solid sound system and plenty of charging stations for controllers and devices. Add shelving or storage for games, consoles, and accessories to keep things organized.

Good Lighting is Key

Combine dimmable overhead lights with colorful LED strips to create an adjustable vibe for different moods. Edison-style lights are great for accent lighting. Don’t forget a mini-fridge and snack area so teens can hang out for hours without needing to head upstairs. With a little planning, the basement can become the ultimate chill zone that feels like their own private hangout.

Entertaining in a Home Games Room

Setting up a games room at home is a great way to create a fun and relaxing space for family and friends. Start by choosing a room with enough space for your favorite activities, whether that’s a pool table, a gaming console setup, or a card table. Comfortable seating, good lighting, and storage for games and accessories will help keep the room organized and inviting.

Personal touches like themed décor, a mini fridge, or a sound system can enhance the atmosphere and make the space feel uniquely yours. With a little planning, your games room can become the perfect retreat for entertainment and socializing.

Home Office

Transforming a basement into an organized home office can be a smart way to maximize space and create a focused work environment.

Start by ensuring the area is dry and well-lit, using moisture barriers and adding bright, adjustable lighting. Opt for modular furniture like shelves, filing cabinets, and a sturdy desk to keep supplies and documents neatly arranged. Using vertical storage and cable management solutions will help maintain a clean, uncluttered look. Finally, add comfortable seating and personal touches like plants or art to make the space inviting while supporting productivity.

Design credit: Versa Style Design
See portfolio

Basement Wine Cellar

Building a wine cellar while renovating your basement is a great way to add both functionality and value to your home. By incorporating the wine cellar during the renovation, you can properly plan for essential features like insulation, temperature control, and humidity management, ensuring optimal storage conditions for your collection.

Design credit: Versa Style Design
See portfolio

Using materials like stone, brick, or reclaimed wood can create a stylish, timeless look, while custom racks and lighting add a personal touch. Planning it alongside the basement remodel also allows for better space optimization and integration with other features like a lounge or tasting area.

Conclusion

Basement design in 2027 is all about blending style with practicality. Whether you prefer an industrial, modern, rustic, or luxurious look, the key is to create a space that reflects your personality and meets your needs. By incorporating smart storage solutions, multifunctional layouts, and trending design concepts, homeowners can transform their basements into stylish and highly functional areas that add value to their homes.

You would like to adopt some of these ideas in your own space but you don’t know where to start?

Click here to contact us.

Montreal Basement Design Services

To learn more about our basement design services offered to the Greater Montreal Region.

Basement Design

Lucie’s Basement Design Portfolio

See how Lucie transforms basements

Lucie’s Basement Portfolio

Jul 24 2026

Window Treatments: Elevating Your Space with Curtains and Sheers

Window treatments not only add a stylish touch to your space but also offer practical benefits such as privacy and insulation. With a wide range of options available, you can easily update your home with elegance and give it that final design flourish. In this article, we’ll explore the world of curtains and sheers, providing you with inspiring ideas to transform your windows.

Sheers on a Track: Soften the Ambience

If you’re looking to create a soft and ethereal atmosphere while still allowing natural light to filter in, sheers on a track are an excellent choice. These delicate and minimalist curtains offer a gentle diffusion of light, adding a touch of elegance to any room. Sheers have the advantage of dimming the natural light without over-encumbering the window with excessive fabric, colors, or patterns. They are particularly useful when privacy is not an issue during evening hours, creating a romantic ambiance.

Sheers are also a great solution for hiding an unsightly view, such as a neighboring wall or alleyway. The sheer fabric allows you to maintain a connection with the outside world while adding a layer of privacy. Naturally, you always have the option of opening them partially or 100% to let in more light and enjoy the view.

To add a touch of design and enhance the visual appeal, consider adding decorative panels at each end of the sheer curtains. These panels act as an extension over the wall, giving the illusion of a wider window and adding a sophisticated touch to the overall look. By combining sheers and decorative panels, you can create a layered effect that adds depth and visual interest to your windows.

If you feel the need for greater privacy or light blockage, you can also add a second pole with an opaque fabric curtain. This allows you to have the perfect balance of light and privacy throughout the day and night.

With the option to adjust each layer individually, you have complete control over the amount of light and privacy you desire.

Design Tip: Choose sheers in a color that complements your existing decor. Opt for neutral tones like white, cream, or light gray for a timeless and versatile look. Alternatively, experiment with soft pastel hues or delicate patterns to add a subtle pop of color and visual interest to your space.

Heavy Curtains: Ultimate Insulation and Privacy

When it comes to insulation, privacy, and light control, heavy curtain fabrics are your go-to option. The thicker the fabric, the better the insulation it provides against the cold of winter and the excessive heat of summer. Heavy curtains create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, reducing drafts and helping to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

In addition to their insulation properties, heavy curtains offer exceptional privacy by blocking outside views and preventing prying eyes from peering into your living spaces. They also have an acoustic factor, reducing external noise and creating a tranquil environment inside.

Design Tip: Opt for velvet or thick, woven fabrics for a luxurious and opulent look. Consider choosing curtains with a thermal lining to enhance their insulating properties further. Experiment with rich colors like deep blues, jewel tones, or warm earthy shades to add depth and create a dramatic focal point in your room.

For Arched Windows: Embrace the Angle

Arched windows add architectural interest and uniqueness to a space, but they can pose challenges when it comes to window treatments. To embrace the angle of arched windows, treat them as if they were angled like regular windows.

For rooms with higher ceilings, suspend the curtain rods as high as possible to create a sense of grandeur and make the most of the window’s height. By doing so, you can enhance the appearance of the architecture and create an impressive visual impact.

To ensure ease of use, choose a sliding system that operates smoothly and effortlessly. For ultra-high curtain poles, a motorized system offers the convenience of remote-controlled opening and closing, allowing you to effortlessly adjust the curtains and control the amount of light entering your space.

Design Tip: When selecting curtains for arched windows, opt for fabrics with a flowing drape to complement the graceful curves of the window. Consider using patterned or textured fabrics to add visual interest and draw attention to the unique shape of the windows.

For Modern Bay Windows: Privacy and Style

Modern bay windows are a stunning architectural feature that floods a room with natural light and offers panoramic views. However, they can also present challenges when it comes to privacy and light control. To address these concerns while maintaining the sleek and modern aesthetic of your bay windows, it’s essential to choose the right window treatments.

Window treatments - For Modern Bay Windows

Curtains that are doubled with a backing fabric are an excellent solution to guarantee 100% privacy, especially during the evening hours when people may be walking or driving by your home. The backing fabric not only provides privacy but also offers additional insulation, making your space more energy-efficient.

Window treatments - For traditional bay windows

Opt for warm and inviting fabrics that complement the overall decor and create a cozy atmosphere. Ceiling tracks are the perfect choice for bay window treatments as they provide a sleek and discreet appearance, allowing the curtains to glide effortlessly along the track.

Design Tip: When selecting curtains for modern bay windows, consider using floor-to-ceiling panels to create a sense of height and make the most of the expansive window space. Choose fabrics in neutral tones or modern prints to maintain a contemporary and cohesive look.

We hope these design strategies inspire you to transform your windows using curtains and sheers. Whether you opt for billowing sheers, heavy curtains, or specific treatments for arched or bay windows, window treatments can enhance the overall look and functionality of your home.

If you need professional assistance or guidance in implementing these ideas, contact us at Versa Style Design. Our experienced team can help bring your vision to life, ensuring that your window treatments perfectly align with your unique style, budget, and specific needs. Let’s discuss your project, and we’ll provide you with relevant information about our services, the design process, and our competitive fees.

Embark on your window transformation journey by clicking here to contact us.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll explore blinds and shutters for every room.

You would like to adopt some of these ideas in your own space but you don’t know where to start?

Click here to contact us.

Jul 22 2026

Strategies for making any room seem larger!

I meet many clients each week and it hasn’t happened yet where one of them tells me, ‘I have too much space, please make it seem smaller’. Inevitably, in every home there seems to be at least one dysfunctional zone that needs to be tweaked and re-thought. This seems to be increasing with the trend toward more compact urban lofts, condos and town houses.

Even in larger traditional homes, in most renovation projects I demolish certain walls to create that open and airy layout that is in such high demand. But this is an expensive strategy and disturbs your regular lifestyle for a little while. This is the reason I always begin with exploring with my clients’ options that are far simpler, more accessible, and definitely more economical!

Regardless of your budget, if you want to give the impression of more space you do not have to transform your home or office into a construction zone.

Here are a few simple ideas that will allow you to create a much roomier and cohesive living or office space.

The strategic use of tones and colours

In this bedroom, there really isn’t a lot of room at all. In fact, I would call it tight, but this fact doesn’t seem very apparent, nor would it be too bothersome. With the absence of contrasting lines, pattern or color, our focus is not drawn to the lack of space but rather the abundance of light and serenity. Here is the benefit of the monochromatic palette (different shades of the same hue), the absence of excessive patterns or contrasting lines. It is a calmer and more seamless look, and this contributes to the spacious feel.

Design credit Versa Style Design

Paint the ceiling the same color as the walls

Design credit Versa Style Design

It works with the white bedroom, but this also works with a colour.

You have surely heard the recommendation to paint the ceiling a lighter tone, but I would like to show you AN EVEN BETTER STRATEGY, which is precisely AVOIDING the creation of a ‘line’ of demarcation between the walls and ceiling.

In this compact dining room, the ceiling is painted in the same shade as the walls. I know it’s darker than we are accustomed to seeing, but it still doesn’t seem heavy or suffocating.

We often hear fashion stylists telling us to wear one shade, like black, from head to toe so the silhouette line remains ‘unbroken’ and fluid. The same principle applies with living spaces. When choosing a color for a room, make sure to consult a professional who will help you make the selection in the space itself.

Integrate multifunctional furniture

This coffee table plays many functions. A piece like this is essential because it has all-in-one versatility; you can instantly switch from lounging to eating to working as well as having spacious hidden storage. It comes with 3 built-in compartments—ideal for keeping daily essentials like remotes, books, and chargers out of sight.

Furniture like this is pace-saving, efficient, and designed for modern multitasking. The lift top coffee table can rise reaching the ideal height for working or eating without strain.

Other examples include sleeper sofas, Murphy beds and ottomans that flip into tables and contain storage.

Use a round table instead of rectangular

Design credit Versa Style Design

Round tables are fabulously inviting. Everyone is face to face and there are no awkward corners to navigate around. If you have a super tight eating space, go for round, with the option to extend it into an oval for the occasional larger gathering.

Another strategy in small space planning is opting for larger scale items and reducing the clutter. In this eating space, the rattan chandelier is large and the items on the counter and shelves have been reduced to a minimum.

Learn how to use lines

Whether it is horizontal, vertical or even diagonal, the humble line goes far in stretching, widening and lengthening just about every time it is used strategically!

The vertical line

The vertical wood slats in this compact studio apartment serve two functions; a functional room divider that allows light to pass through and the vertical lines create the illusion of even more height. A solid wall would completely change this space creating a cramped feeling and the lack of light reaching the central living space would be very dark and depressing. Accent strip lighting at the bottom and top of this wood wall adds depth, light and visual interest.

Design credit Versa Style Design

The proper use of mirrors (and hidden storage)

Design credit Versa Style Design

Strategically used, mirrors are a simple way of expanding a room or narrow hallway because they push back the wall as well as giving the impression of doubling the surface of what it is reflecting. This hallway is brighter because the mirrors are reflecting the light coming in from the bedroom as well as the bright and refreshing colour choices in the walls, floor and ceiling.

The abstract artwork creates visual interest without cluttering up the corridor. The bonus: shallow storage is hidden behind these mirrors; they are doors! Please always remember that mirrors need to be facing a clutter free wall, to avoid reflecting a wall of clutter, which would worsen the situation by doubling up on the messiness.

Furniture positioning

In this compact multifunctional kid zone, clean lines and right angles contribute to a sense of order and calm and communicate that there is sufficient space and that there are no obstacles to navigate around. All designers agree: Less is more! In other words, keep it simple and the elements basic.

Avoid obstructions and furniture in the middle of the room as this gives the impression there is a lack of space. This is the reason I almost always recommend putting the biggest pieces along the biggest walls ensuring that the traffic can circulate with ease. The brain registers this and concludes that there is adequate space.

Hidden built-in storage

Even a super compact bathroom can feel organized and spacious if all the clutter is hidden away. If you are lacking in floor space, look upwards to maximize the vertical possibilities. In this stylish and elegant bathroom, custom cabinetry made use of every inch of wall space within a very small footprint.

The custom storage above the toilet is shallow but contains a lot of storage capacity. The mini vanity was custom designed to cover the smallest footprint possible and fitted with a mini vessel sink. By customizing this cabinetry, a cohesive and streamlined look is achieved making the small bathroom feel larger and uncluttered.

You would like to adopt some of these ideas in your own space but you don’t know where to start?

Click here to contact us.

Are you located in the Greater Montreal Region?

Bring your design to life with Lucie.

Initial Consultation

May 23 2026

Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2026-2027

Where does everyone want to hang out? In the kitchen of course! And which room do we end up using the most? That’s right… the kitchen. Kids are snacking or doing their homework, parents are cooking, friends are part of the food prep before a celebration, families are gathering and creating memories, enjoying the only times everyone seems to be together and engaged.

Kitchens are also an investment… not an expense… an investment! They are directly linked to the value of the home, and when they are well designed, they actually sell the home.

It seems like every year there are new innovations, design elements and fabulous ideas that get us dreaming of our ideal kitchen.

Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2025 and 2026 — photo credit: Gaggenau

Eventually there comes the day when the dreams need to take form and become reality. To help you along, here are a few very important kitchen trends and styles for 2026 and 2027 along with some of the valuable tips I share with my clients.

Statement Lighting Over the Island

Photo Credit: Versa Style Design
View Portfolio

Kitchens need general ambient light, in the form of recessed pot lights or a ceiling fixture, and they also need directional functional lighting that adequately covers all the counters as well as the kitchen island. Most clients need a little encouragement when it comes to selecting the style and type of pendant light hanging over the island. They timidly lean towards safe and small lamp shades for their own kitchen, forgetting how impressed they were every time they saw a statement light over a friend’s kitchen island.

Have fun with this aspect of your design scheme, it is not a huge expense and will go a long way in adding a ‘wow-factor’ focal point to your kitchen.

Integrated and Innovative Appliances

Companies like Gaggenau offer a range of ovens, combi-steam ovens, and combi-microwaves. Components such as storage, warming and ‘sous-vide’ drawers are also available in a variety of sizes to add flexibility to any design. All their components can combine with this fully automatic coffee machine. You can prepare every variation of espresso, coffee and milk-based drinks, as well as hot water for other beverages, including tea.

You can program and save any configuration you like for each member of the family. This Gaggenau combi-microwave, coffee machine and combi-steam oven set-up is functional and completely built-in and flush to the cabinets.

Warm Wood Tones Paired with White

Photo Credit: Versa Style Design
View Portfolio

The all-white kitchen is being replaced by a warmer version, incorporating natural wood tones. Natural White oak is very popular, paired with warm white, as well as high quality Euro laminates from companies such as Uniboard and Egger.

In this kitchen there is an equal distribution between the white and the wood tone, but you may choose to increase the ratio of either one. You must also consider the type and tone of the floor when choosing which wood essence will be used in the cabinetry.

Matte and Minimalist Black

One of the things I love about the popularity of using black in interior design, regardless of how it is applied, is that every component really stands out. Black is still a neutral which means it doesn’t clash with anything. And, as a bonus, every type of metal hardware or plumbing fixture looks great with black.

When it comes to using black, it is very important to balance out the darker elements with plenty of light, incorporating lighter walls, counter, and floor…and…. plenty of natural and artificial light.

If your kitchen is lacking in daytime natural light, up the ante with a good light plan including recessed pot lights. Also consider a nice shade of medium to dark grey as an alternative to prevent the kitchen from being too dark.

Fluted wood panels

This is a trend I can really get my teeth into. Reminiscent of mid-century modern esthetic and design, fluted wood panels are a fabulous way of adding a unique and bold wow-factor to any room, including kitchen cabinetry and the kitchen island. A little goes a long way, and they don’t give this away so make sure you get the help of a designer to determine the best use of this graphic design element.

Fluted wood panels come in natural wood essence tones or can be painted any colour you like. In this case we see a beautiful combination of charcoal grey fluted wood on the upper cabinets and island paired with a light grey chevron floor tile and beautiful light natural wood.

The classic and always modern arch

In design school, we are trained to avoid too much of any one thing. And one of the design elements that is often overlooked is the over-use of straight-angular lines and right-angles. In our designs we are taught to balance out hard edges and corners with gentler curves and arches. You can see this design principle used in artists’ paintings through the ages as well as architecture going back to the Greeks and Romans (and caves, if you want to go that far back).

Arches can be introduced as a doorway, a window, a wall opening, a wall niche, a mirror or furniture.

Here is a great example of the archway integrated to a functional coffee station with added shelves. And I love the hexagon tile detail drawing the eye in.

When it comes to design trends, I recommend clients always think strategically, because kitchens are an expensive investment, and you want ROI and great lasting power design-wise. But when I look at the kitchen trends presented in this article, I feel confident that anyone of these ideas, if well executed and thought-out, WILL stand the test of time.

Montreal Kitchen
Design Services

To learn more about our kitchen design services offered to the Greater Montreal Region.

Kitchen Design

Are you located in the Greater Montreal Region?

Bring your design to life with Lucie.

Initial Consultation

You would like to adopt some of these ideas in your own space but you don’t know where to start?

Click here to contact us.

Melamine Cabinets

European Melamine (or Euro-laminate) Cabinets

Polyester Melamine

Thermofoil

Acrylic Cabinets

Painted Lacquer

Natural Hard Wood

Natural Wood Veneer

Here are Some Key Basement Design Ideas

Home Gyms

Guest Bedrooms

Play Zone

Bar Area

Home Theater

Family Den

Additional Bathroom

Laundry Room

Clever Storage Solutions

Teen Retreat

Good Lighting is Key

Entertaining in a Home Games Room

Home Office

Basement Wine Cellar

Conclusion

Montreal Basement Design Services

Lucie’s Basement Design Portfolio

Sheers on a Track: Soften the Ambience

Heavy Curtains: Ultimate Insulation and Privacy

For Arched Windows: Embrace the Angle

For Modern Bay Windows: Privacy and Style

The strategic use of tones and colours

Paint the ceiling the same color as the walls

Integrate multifunctional furniture

Use a round table instead of rectangular

Learn how to use lines

The vertical line

The proper use of mirrors (and hidden storage)

Furniture positioning

Hidden built-in storage

Are you located in the Greater Montreal Region?

Statement Lighting Over the Island

Integrated and Innovative Appliances

Warm Wood Tones Paired with White

Matte and Minimalist Black

Fluted wood panels

The classic and always modern arch

Montreal KitchenDesign Services

Are you located in the Greater Montreal Region?

Versa Style Design Lucie Pitt

Interior Design & Renovations

Design Blog

Montreal Kitchen
Design Services

Versa Style Design
Lucie Pitt