DECOR: Step into your dream kitchen on 'Simply Sarasota' tour

The home of Dr. Richard and Amy Buck is a Mediterranean revival-style home located at 1607 South Drive and is thought to be the oldest standing house in historic Cherokee Park. The Bucks purchased the home in 2005 and moved in after an 18-to-20-month renovation. Prior to being staged by designer Jason Champion for Junior League of Sarasota’s Simply Sarasota Kitchen Festival, The Observer got a sneak peek at the beautiful family-friendly kitchen.

IF YOU GO

Kitchen tours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2, during Junior League of Sarasota’s “Simply Sarasota Kitchen Festival.” Tickets are $30. For more information, call 953-5600 or visit jlsarasota.org.
 

DESIGN TIPS FROM JASON CHAMPION

"Clean, clean and clean some more.”

“When bringing life to a blank canvas, you should always start with your surroundings,” says Jason Champion, who will stage the Bucks’ kitchen for this weekend’s tour. “Nature offers a beautiful array of shapes, sizes and colors.”

“The least expensive way to mix it up in a kitchen with limited space would be to paint and use natural elements such as vegetables, an herb garden or even a beautiful banana leaf from your yard.”

”Get rid of clutter — box up what you don’t need or use and get it out.”

“When staging homes or businesses, you can find something that is personal to the owner or items that can displayed in groups,” says Champion. “The Bucks have a great collection of hand-painted pottery with amazing colors for inspiration in a flower arrangement. Always try to bring something living in a space.”

”Consider curb appeal of your home. New potted plants or perennials give a nice splash of color.”

”Consider soft music in each room or in the main living area to create a tranquil atmosphere.”