Elegant and light filled, the charming Toronto kitchen of Elle Jungkind looks like something that could be found in a New York apartment or a Parisian pied - a - terre, so its hard to believe it developed out of something a little more mundane. "It all started with the introduction of Torontos recycling services," says Elle, who owns the interior design firm Elle Maison Design. Her kitchen couldnt accommodate a recycling container, a green compost bucket and a garbage can, so she set out to fix the problem. "I had seen those clever trash compartments that are part of new kitchens and they could easily go underneath my sink."

But, Elle figured, why stop there? After all, the kitchen in her Georgian - style townhouse had become dated, she felt, and there were things she could do to enhance both its functionality and aesthetic. For example, Elle, an avid cook and entertainer, could use more counter space. Also, she thought, why not replace the wall oven and microwave with a gorgeous high - end range? And with the wall oven gone, she could install a pantry with slide - out drawers. "Thats what really got me going," says Elle.

Inspired by New York City bistros, Elle included a mix of contemporary and traditional elements in a light, monochromatic palette to create a classic look.

"Because its a small space, I didnt want to get distracted by a lot of stops and starts of anything," she says. So, along with her all - white custom cabinetry, she incorporated slabs of marble for the backsplash, an extra - thick white quartz countertop and a large single undermount sink. "One of the things I found was that when I entertained I would have these big platters and, with my double sink, I could never wash them properly," she says. "I wanted a place where I could just put something like that down and let it soak for a few hours."

Indeed, everything about this kitchen, including its under - sink garbage system, is practical. The cabinetry is organized with the slide - out drawers she wanted; the countertop, which Elle extended on one side, allows her more prep space and an area to set out food for guests; and the substantial gooseneck faucet also makes it easier to fill and clean up pots. "Ive crowded so many important features into my kitchen that it doesnt act like a small space," says Elle. "Not only is it pretty, but its also really functional.