A Special Treat - The Art of Kitchen Styling by Karin Lidbeck

My job as a stylist is to show off the fine lines of kitchens architecture. I like the kitchen to feel used, but not sterile. I refer to it as making organized chaos.

Removal of all the homeowners appliances and personal knick-knacks allows me to start with a clean slate. The fun part is creating the story, a sense that something is happening that draws you into the photo.

I love styling a country style kitchen that can take an abundance of propping. Styling is the same as creating a painting, you move the colors, shapes and objects around and around until you get a pleasing to the eye moment!

Creating a scene suggesting a meal in preparation can be tricky.  You want it to feel real without looking like the real mess that really occurs when cooking.

Kitchens with a lot of open shelves and glass cabinets like the two above have many challenges and always require a car load of props for organizing and creating pretty!

Photos by Michael Partenio 

Beautiful Kitchen and Kitchen Makeovers magazine

Sometimes a quiet and simple scene is best.  De-clutter, and add a few simple objects that make a statement without overpowering the space. Collections of white always works in any kitchen.

Photo by Michael Partenio 

Kitchen and Baths Idea magazine winter 2011

The homeowners collection of blue mason jars set the stage for the props I brought in. Creating the harmonious balance of well placed accessories takes time. Open shelves should be  used for a proud display of your favorite objects.  Keeping colors in the same family creates tranquility and balance

 Michael Partenio, the photographer could not resist getting this shot of the homeowner's daughter. It's a winner!.

Sometime the location of the shoot calls the shots when it comes to the props. Who could resist the idea of Cape Cod oysters? Can you feel the summer breeze blowing thru the windows?

Photos by  Michael Partenio

Renovation Style magazine 

Gee, I love my JOB!