This home is graced with the high ceilings, well-proportioned rooms and detailed millwork that is reminiscent of an earlier tradition of elegance and craftsmanship. That is, until one got to the kitchen. The former kitchen was dark, compartmentalized and dysfunctional, with an awkward layout and limited counter space. That absolutely did not work for the client, an avid cook who entertains frequently. Our objective was to create a design that respects the architecture of the home, enlivens the space and most important, improves function and workflow for serious cooking.

The design challenge was to correct the inefficiencies of the former floor plan while working within the available footprint of the space. The primary kitchen space was long and narrow and bisected by a peninsula. The entry door swung into the kitchen, obstructing access when open. An infrequently used porch door interrupted one elevation. A little used butler’s pantry was separated from the kitchen by a partition wall; and this in turn was cut off from other living spaces by narrow doorways. The work triangle was ineffectively tight and counter space was extremely limited for a kitchen this size. Appliances were outdated. The cook working in the former floor plan had his/her back to the windows, missing out on a lovely garden view. And aesthetically, the kitchen was unexceptional.

Since we were not able to expand the kitchen’s footprint, our design solution involved fine tuning the details within the existing space. The entry was converted to a pocket door, freeing floor space for cabinetry. The porch door was removed, and in its place a Palladian window with keystone arch centers an elegant and functional elevation. The main sink was moved to this window to enjoy the view and is flanked by integrated dishwasher drawers and pull-out waste and recycle bins. The wall between the kitchen and butler’s pantry was removed and openings to other living spaces expanded to borrow light and views. Cabinetry now flows seamlessly around the corner, transitioning from the cooking zone with its professional rangetop and custom wood hood to an entertaining zone with under counter refrigerator and icemaker flanking a bar sink. Removal of the peninsula allowed for the inclusion of an island. Placed directly across from the rangetop, the island is now the primary prep zone, allowing the cook to enjoy garden views as well as a flat screen TV positioned between the windows. All appliances were upgraded to professional quality and integrated into the cabinetry where possible. Classic white cabinetry with formal trim anchors a fresh new blue and white color scheme. The new kitchen has the aesthetic refinement to complement the rest of the house and the functional capability to satisfy the serious cook.

Special features:
• Classic four part crown system ties cabinets into ceilings to visually expand space.
• Monumental built-in French door refrigerator adds architectural presence.
• Island with curvaceous cabriole legs has deep recessed toe kick to mimic a free-standing furniture piece.
• Flip down drawer fronts on island ends hide electric outlets. One island drawer front hides an integrated warming drawer.
• Hand carved details ornament sink base and custom hood.
• New Palladian window and bar cabinet with arched glass doors echo the corner cabinets in adjacent formal dining room.
• Blue Pearl granite and Carrera marble mosaic marble backsplash.
• Vintage Waterford chandelier adds sparkle.