The homeowner, an avid cook who travels throughout Europe to widen her gastronomic knowledge,wanted to eliminate the golden oak cabinets, the emerald green counter tops and bright brass hardware and replace them with elements more reminiscent of a French Country kitchen. Rather than look to the brighter colors and more rustic design of Provence, we took our inspiration from the chateaus of the Loire Valley and the French Renaissance. Elements that reflect this are the hand-painted tiles for the back-splash, the elimination of almost all upper cabinetry, a range hood with classical details, and a wood counter top for the island alluding to the traditional work table one would be likely to find in French country kitchen. All of this was accomplished while still incorporating a 48" wide fridge, 36" wide cook-top, two dishwashers, a wine fridge, microwave drawer and double wall ovens.