A California Cool Kitchen

I just love this cool California kitchen of designer Tobi Tobin. So often the kitchen featured in magazines and blogs are the beautiful but fancy versions with shiny stainless steel and fresh white subway tile - which I do adore but this bohemian kitchen and dining area are a wonderful alternative! Plus there are some really great styling tips here for those of us with older kitchens or in a rental apartment.

{1} Bring in antique or vintage pieces - it gives any space more interest! I love this collection of mirrors, hats and seaside objects over the stove

{2} Add softer lighting - a small table lamp, like this black wooden one, makes the whole space feel warmer and lets you turn off the overheads if their florescent light is too harsh!

{3} Use trays to separate your counter space into different zones - here there is one for silverware and one used as a mini-bar

A view like this does not hurt either! So pretty!

{via Lonny - visit here, the whole issue is fabulous!}