Typical of many San Francisco Victorians, this home’s kitchen had evolved over the years out of an enclosed porch. The centerpiece of the new light-filled space is a custom island / drop-leaf table that converts from a casual family dining area to an ample area for the children’s art projects, or seating for twelve. Open shelving and a series of custom ledges for the family’s seasonal canning efforts intensify the casual, working feel to the kitchen, which is both modern, yet appropriate to the essence of the home.
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keckpa wrote:
How do you create this trim? - Contractor and husband telling me that creating this minimal trim is too difficult. I think they just don't know how to do it... any recommendations? Even what it's called? Thx. »
Schwartz and Architecture We designed the trim, which any good contractor should be able to do. It takes some precision but it really isn't that difficult. It is part of the window frame actually.
perldeb I have soapstone counters and think they are timeless and beautiful. You will need to oil (mineral oil) them a lot at first and then less over time to keep up the beautiful darker color. Soapstone is a softer stone so dings are easy to do but can be buffed out. Soapstone only needs to be cleaned with soap and water and is an antibacterial surface. Our neighbor, a chef, recommended it to us! One word of caution. Make sure you have ample lighting in the kitchen as the dark counters really do change the environment in which you are working. Good luck!
My ideabook on ribbon windows showed how doing the dishes is more enjoyable with a well-placed window. The same can be said about a skinny window, as this carefully placed one above a sink attests. Note the operable window.
ConcreteThink concrete is just for floors? Think again. Slightly edgier than other materials, concrete countertops have an industrial chic that fits right into a loft or adds interest to an otherwise traditional space.Pros: Concrete is extremely versatile: It can be cast in any shape and custom tinted any shade you wish. You easily can add unique inlays, such as glass fragments, rocks and shells. Concrete stands up well to heavy use, although it isn't as heat resistant as some other surfaces.Cons: Because it's porous, concrete will stain without frequent sealing. With time and settling, small cracks can develop. Concrete is extremely heavy and will need strong support beneath. Like stainless steel, its custom creation ups the price tag.Cost: $75 to $125 per square foot, installed
Concrete
Cons: Fingerprints show and must be wiped off frequently, and stainless steel can also dent. It can be loud as pots, pans and dishware clang against the surface. Chemicals can affect its color and cause unwanted etching. Stainless steel is extremely expensive due to the custom fabrication.
Cost: $65 to $125 per square foot, installed
Good luck,
Neal