The Kitchen Hood

Dear Christine,
I am in the process of redoing my kitchen. My plan (thanks to you) is to have white painted cabinets (either shaker or beadboard), nickel/chrome drawer pulls and hardware and stainless steel appliances. I need to replace our range hood and know that it is the focal point in a kitchen. I am overwhelmed with my options and want to keep the price as reasonable as possible, as we are doing this remodel earlier than I'd planned. What should I be looking for in a range hood? Is there a rule I should know? (I love rules. They are so safe!) What do you think about this one from Costco?

Do you prefer this one with the curvature? Please don't say that I need the $6,000 copper one instead! :) I am planning on having a 36" stainless gas range below, if that makes a difference. Thanks.-- Michal

Dear Michal,

When you say words like "shaker" and "beadboard"- I don't picture a modern contemporary kitchen, and yet the hoods you have selected are very contemporary. Why don't you have your cabinet maker make a "hood" for you? I pulled some different kitchens from other posts of mine to show you what I am referring to. In each case - the hood is simply made as part of the cabinetry.

Look at the beadboard hood above. If on a budget - I am certain that this look would not go overboard, yet it is a beautiful hood.

And - for a shaker style - check out Kelsey Gramer's hood - it is beautiful.


Another beadboard style...

And another paneled style for you to choose from.

Put the hidden, less expensive hood underneath - and cover it up with cabinetry. The hoods you selected demand a more contemporary clean line - modern room. If that is what you are going for - change your cabinet style - and write me back. :)