AGA'S TOP 5 MUST HAVES FOR SUMMER TABLESCAPES

At this time, we may not be able to host large gatherings with friends and families, but this doesn’t mean you can’t set your summer table. Growing up my mum always set the table, whether it we were having one of her amazing dinners or Chinese take out. We always had fresh flowers from the garden, a crisp table cloth, and candles. This was something I looked forward to every night and now that I am out of the nest I try to maintain some of these same nightly traditions.

With this in mind, I thought I would share my five must haves for setting a summer table…

#1 SET THE TONE WITH A TABLECLOTH

Think of your table cloth as the first layer. This is where you establish your color palette and it is a great opportunity to add pattern.

#2 PERFECT PLATES

I typically opt for crisp white plates because they go with everything.

#3 CUTLERY

Invest in a good set of cutlery.

#4 FLORALS IN THE MIDDLE

Center your table with one large vase or a variety of smaller vases filled with fresh seasonal flowers.

#5 GLASS HURRICANES

A pair of glass hurricanes are perfect for anytime of year, but especially in the summertime. Include a pillar candle and add a bit of sand for a coastal touch.

Image 1) Pinterest, 2) @indiaamory instagram, 3) wedgewood.com, 4) nantucketlooms.com, 5) Pinterest, 6) simonpearce.com

AGA'S TOP 6 FARROW & BALL BLUES FOR PAINTED FLOORS

1.) 27 Parma Gray

2.) 205 Skylight

3.) 85 Oval Room Blue

4.) 86 Stone Blue

5.) 289 Inchyra Blue

6.) 281 Stiffkey Blue

AGA'S TOP 5 SUGGESTIONS FOR KITCHEN DESIGN

As a result of social distancing and restaurant closings, we are spending more time than ever in the kitchen. I love to cook and especially bake. There is something very special about preparing and enjoying a meal with family. I also love the creative aspect of playing with various spices and techniques to create your own unique recipes. Growing up, my mom cooked the majority of our meals. She is a wonderful cook and I credit her to my skills and adventurous nature in the kitchen.

All of this time spent cooking at home may inspire you to embark on a kitchen renovation. Maybe a reconfiguration for better access to appliances or a refresh of finishes for a cleaner look?

With this in mind, I thought I would share my top 5 suggestions for kitchen design....

#1 CENTER YOUR SINK AT A WINDOW

Wash your dishes with a view! And this also creates a great focal point for the room.

#2 DON’T SUPER-SIZE YOUR ISLAND

There is nothing worse than a massive island that you can’t reach across. This is far too much wasted space and reduces the intimate feel of a kitchen.

#3 LIGHTING IS KEY AND SCALE IS EVERYTHING

Scale is everything when it comes to design. One of my biggest pet peeves is when the lighting is too small in a space, especially over a kitchen island or sink. When in doubt go bigger, rather than smaller.

#4 STORAGE, STORAGE, AND MORE STORAGE!

Get those utensils, spices, and appliances off your counters. I suggest working with a professional to ensure that you’re maximizing your storage space.

#5 OPT FOR A TIMELESS COLOR PALETTE AND FINISHES

Don’t go with something trendy. Stick to timeless selections, your future self will thank you.

Images: 1.) AGA Design, by Sarah W Studios, following images via Pinterest, final image via @aga.interiordesign