2012 Candice Olson's Kitchen Design Ideas From HGTV

Candice Olson, a leading designer in the United States and Canada, began her career in commercial and residential design after graduating from the School of Interior Design at Ryerson University in Toronto. Candice received accolades and media attention for her distinctive and exceptional work before moving her design career to television. In fact, earlier in her career, the New York Times identified her as “one to watch.”
Candace Olson is a genius when it comes to total renovations and overhauls. When it comes to kitchens, she is definitely the queen. If I were to choose any designer to build my dream kitchen, it would Candace Olson hands down.
Her signature trademark for many of her kitchen countertops is quartz which is beautiful and more durable than granite. Granite will stain and so having really light colors for granite counter tops actually takes a lot of work to upkeep.

Create your own divine kitchen with Candice Olson's top 10 kitchen design and decorating tips.

Creative BacksplashesBacksplashes add character to the kitchen. This tin-tile backsplash was painted cream for an antique effect.

The Necessary IslandIf your kitchen is all about family, invest in an island. This long island features a stunning white quartz countertop, white and chrome bar chairs, and a dark wood base to match the mahogany floor.

Unique FlooringMake a statement with your kitchen flooring. Stripes of light and dark concrete-like material add an unexpected touch to this contemporary kitchen.

Find Inspiration in Your FavoritesBring the charm of your favorite place to the kitchen. Displaced after Hurricane Katrina, this couple now live in a Big Easy kitchen with French-style accessories.

Use a Similar ColorIntegrate family rooms into the kitchen through color. Dark, espresso-toned cabinets coordinate well with this space's black sofa and warm khaki walls.

Love Your KitchenDesign your kitchen to cater to what you love. This baker's dream kitchen includes a peninsula for entertaining, a lounge area and comfortable flooring.

Update CabinetsOn a budget? Refinish existing cabinetry. These former maple cabinets look custom with their new finish and same-color painted bulkhead.

Open Up Your SpaceKnock out a wall to add space to your kitchen. This kitchen seamlessly integrates with the dining area, using a buffet island to separate the two.

Durable SolutionsDesign your dream kitchen for durability. Three kinds of porcelain tile and carefully planned cabinet storage make this kitchen a stylish workhorse.

Mix It UpTwo-toned kitchens are more interesting than one-toned. A marble island, different cabinet finishes and Art Deco tile make this Candice's favorite Divine Design kitchen makeover.