You’ve got design questions. We’ve got the answers. Designer and Style at Home contributor Karl Lohnes solves your decorating challenges.

Question:

I’m in the process of designing my new kitchen. Are there guidelines regarding what should match? Dustin B., via email

Answer:

Start by choosing your cabinetry style and finish. Next comes appliances, countertops, backsplash, hardware and wall colour, in that order.

The cabinetry sets the tone and style of the kitchen. Once you have found cabinetry you love and can live with for years, decide on the next big-ticket item: appliances, which will influence your choice of countertop. If you choose all-white appliances, for example, go for a mostly white countertop with soft light-toned veining.

Next comes the backsplash, which visually connects the upper and lower cabinets, so choose colours and tones that work with the cabinetry. If you have medium-brown walnut cabinetry, for instance, choose a medium-tone stone or tiles in similar shades and colours for the backsplash. Now choose the metallic finishes for elements like lighting, cabinetry hardware, doorknobs and faucets. They should all be in a similar colour family (brass, black, chrome or bronze). Finally, pull your wall colour from the backsplash; go for a shade that’s lighter than the stone or tile for a harmonious look.

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