This tired kitchen needed an update for some serious cooks moving in. A young couple, accompanied by her Mother, were used to cooking three fresh meals each day, utilizing almost every appliance and cooking utensil to be found. I started by blowing out the space, scraping the peninsula and all that was left was a custom stainless range hood to begin with. The clients needs were 2 36" Refrigerators and only 2 freezer drawers. Hence, fresh cooking. The number of large appliances was so great that we decided to use flush front cabinets to yield clean lines and remove focus from the multitude of appliances. The 12' island housed 2 freezer drawers, a steam oven, a warming drawer, and a drawer microwave oven along with seating for 4 mid-way along the island. Authentic Quartzite was the only choice for these cooks who had no time to worry of stains.A wood look floor was desired, but not practical and I used a 7" x 48" wood tile plank. Opposite the stove is a TV and sitting area for those wanting to be a part of the action, but not involved. Photography by Jonn Spradlin

Not in love with the functionality and finishes in their generic inner city home, this client recognized that remodeling their kitchen and living room spaces were the key to longer-term functionality. Wanting plenty of natural light, richness and coolness, the clients sought a kitchen whose function would be more convenient and interactive for their family. The architect removed the peninsula counter and bartop that blocked flow from kitchen to living room by creating an island that allows for free circulation. Placing the cooktop on an exterior wall, out of the way at the edge of the space where cooking could occur uninterruptedly allowed the hood vent to have a prominent place viewable from the living room. Because of the prominence of this wall, it was given added visual impact by being clad in rich oak shiplap. Its wall of cabinets contain a countertop and backsplash that run up the wall, floating out just enough to allow backlighting behind to illuminate the wood. The backsplash contains an opening to the wood surface for the family’s favorite decorative items. The Robin’s Egg blue cabinets occur throughout, cooling it visually and at the island they create an extra tall and deep toekick for the family to store shoes. With a refreshing space in which to cook, eat and interact, this family now has a renewed love for their modest home. Photo Credit: Paul Bardagjy

Mid-sized elegant master brown tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile walk-in shower photo in Phoenix with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, a two-piece toilet and beige walls

Cooks
Elegant deck photo in West Midlands

Black kitchen with Oak timber and marble benchtops. Double wine fridge for entertaining. Double height void over dining allows an abundance of natural light deep into the house.

Example of a trendy living room design in Chicago

Olivier Chabaud
Eclectic open concept laminate floor, gray floor and tray ceiling living room photo in Paris with white walls and a standard fireplace

Enter this beautiful and meticulously maintained Spanish home through a gated, enclosed front yard offering exceptional privacy. The home opens up into a generous area that accommodates the kitchen, living and dining rooms that are light-filled, inviting and offer a great flow for entertaining. A well appointed cook’s kitchen features stainless-steel appliances, maple cabinets and plenty of countertop and storage space. French doors lead to the wood patio and tranquil yard w/ outdoor spa, inviting the outside in. The guest bath is accented with classic wainscoting and a soaking tub. The master suite includes a large walk-in cedar-lined wardrobe w/ built-in cabinetry, and a resort-stye bathroom with oversized stone shower. Within footsteps of the shops and cafes Melrose has to offer. This is a very special home. Photos: Plan-O-Matic -AJ

Built-in seating maximizes deck space on a small deck while bench back serves as a guard rail. Herb bed adjacent to grill compliments the outdoor kitchen elements.

Inspiration for a contemporary home theater remodel in Chicago

The project at Park Lodge in Suffolk has the perfect combination of stunning interior architecture, plenty of natural light and a thoughtfully designed series of spaces that flow seamlessly into each other. The kitchen is situated to the rear of the building in a recently built extension overlooking the garden and countryside beyond. The large open windows and roof lantern above create a light and bright space that feels open and airy even on the mid-winter’s day. The perimeter cabinetry has been finished in H|M Lapel and the island finished in H|M Farthing; these cool colours are balanced perfectly with the warmth of the Ludgate oak accent wood throughout alongside the polished nickel Quilp knobs. The main focal point of this kitchen is the Lacanche Saulieu range cooker in bold graphite with a polished nickel trim which pairs with the cabinetry hardware throughout. The hob consists of 4 gas burners and a simmer plate which is perfect for a cooking a big Sunday lunch because of the space for multiple pans. This beautiful classic Lacanche is framed by a bespoke false chimney which conceals the H|M Westin extraction whilst providing niches for small condiments and providing a well balanced focal point to the kitchen. Behind the Lacanche is a stunning quartz splashback, the same as the worktops which keeps the space behind looking clean and simple. The cooking appliances were chosen with entertaining and busy family life in mind so situated either side of the Lacanche are two Miele ovens. The first on the left, is the Miele single pyrolytic oven and to the right of the Lacanche is the Miele combi-microwave with a Miele warming drawer underneath. The Gaggenau refrigerator and Gaggenau wine cooler are both conveniently positioned to the left hand side of the island making it easy to put away groceries and also get what you need for food prep and cooking as well as serving wine. The main sink run is on the island which acts as the main prep area and is parallel to the Lacanche. There is a large Kohler deerfield smart divide sink, Perrin & Rowe Athenian tap with rinse in polished nickel and a Quooker classic hot tap in polished nickel. Integrated either side of the sink are two Miele dishwashers and two eurocargo bins to assist with clearing away additional dishes and glasses when entertaining. Directly opposite the sink is the breakfast bar which has been finished in Portobello oak and is situated across from the main sink/ prep area separating the two spaces but allowing for multiple people to share the same space at any one time. The far end of the island is deliberately lower to keep the symmetry of the main kitchen. It is perfect for a tall bouquet of flowers, getting plates ready for a dinner party or a convenient place to prepare baking goods from the pantry. The day pantry at the far end of the main cooking run. Having a cook’s pantry means all your dry cooking ingredients are stored in one place rather than spread in different cupboards around the kitchen and for ease of use, the engraved drawers also means that you won’t get ingredients mixed up when in a hurry. Photo Credit: Paul Craig

Wolf 30" E Series Contemporary Built-In Single Oven Black | SO30CE Available at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center | uakc.com Coordinated design styles: Built to beautifully complement other Wolf products such as microwaves and warming drawers, ovens are available in three coordinating trim styles for easy customization. Dual convection: Two dedicated heating elements distribute heat evenly throughout the oven, for faster and better-tasting results — especially when using multiple racks at once. 10 one-touch cooking modes: Each mode uses a distinct combination of heat source and airflow, providing the right cooking environment for every dish and ensuring delicious results. Cobalt blue porcelain interiors: Wolf's signature aesthetics enhance the ovens' interior, creating a bold cooking backdrop. Temperature probe: The temperature probe alerts you when your dish has reached the desired temperature, eliminating guesswork when preparing roasts and other meats. Smooth door opening and closing: Say goodbye to the sound of oven-door slams. Doors on built-in E series ovens open and close quietly and effortlessly, thanks to a balanced door hinge system. Home automation compatible: Select built-in E series oven features can be controlled via an existing home automation system for enhanced convenience. Convenient features: Ease-of-use is enhanced with self-clean, delayed start, timed cook and Sabbath mode settings. Adjustable oven racks: Each built-in E series oven comes standard with three adjustable racks: one standard rack, one full-extension easy-glide rack and one full-extension door-glide rack — placing heavier dishes safely within reach. Obstacle-free cooking environment: A hidden bake element allows for obstacle-free cleaning of the oven's floor, and a recessed broil element provides more room for large dishes. Design flexibility: Built-in E series ovens can be installed flush with surrounding cabinetry to complement an overall integrated kitchen design. Enhanced interior views: Large, double-pane glass door windows and bright, dual halogen lights give you a clear view of your dish without having to open the door and disturb the cooking environment. Technical Features: Dimensions: 29 7/8"W x 27 7/8"H x 23 3/4"D Star-K Kosher certified as Sabbath and holiday-compliant

"The overall effect that I was trying to achieve was an update on the traditional. With the painted inset cabinetry, my immediate thought was a subway tile, but I ran across a variation on the traditional 3x6 subway which was a 2 1/8” x 8 ½” field tile. Still the subway look, but with a more modern shape..." Read the rest of this kitchen's story from start to finish in Wendy Anderson's blog series (see links): http://www.durasupreme.com/blog/process-begins http://www.durasupreme.com/blog/next-step http://www.durasupreme.com/blog/theres-no-turning-back http://www.durasupreme.com/blog/ready-cabinets Request a FREE Brochure: http://www.durasupreme.com/request-brochure Find a dealer near you today: http://www.durasupreme.com/dealer-locator

The original intent of this project was to replace the island, hood, countertops, and a few appliances. A primary bath remodel was the main priority. But once the couple realized certain features would enhance the functionality of the kitchen – not to mention completely change the aesthetic – they put the master bath on hold and decided to remodel the entire kitchen first. Design objectives: -Omit separate table, plan for a larger island that would seat 7 people -Simple, clean lines – no rounded corners or weird angles -Nothing trendy – use modern classic details -Uncluttered countertops -Better pantry storage for food & small appliances -Integrated major appliances -Coffee bar -Avoid “1 color on perimeter with second color on island” -Integrate a harmonious variety of finishes -Integrate black & handmade metals Design challenges: -Island shape to fit within confines of existing half wall between kitchen & family room & bay window/door to backyard -Narrow kitchen with major walkway -Planning for 7 seats at the island -Keep guest social area away from the cook’s zone -Place appliances according to use -Point-of-use storage for an avid cook within a relatively small space -Integrate colors without looking too busy THE NEW KITCHEN -While the island is mostly rectangular, the seating area utilizes the bay extension without interfering with the exterior door -All seating is placed on the outside perimeter of the island, giving the cook dedicated prep space -The L-shaped seating area & adjacent coffee bar encourage guests to gather on the outside edge of the kitchen where they can still interact with the cook -Island prep space includes 5 feet of versatile drawer storage, double waste basket and an open paper towel dispenser -One pantry designated for food; the other for small appliances & bulk storage; creates visual armoire look -Microwave drawer in island faces refrigerator for easy access & less interference with cook’s zone -Appliance garages avoid clutter on the countertops -Off-white upper cabinets make the kitchen look larger while the black bases offer contrast without closing in the space Once the client committed to remodeling her entire kitchen, she had a good idea of the direction she wanted the space to take. Even so, there were many details that remained open to explore & contemplate. The end result is modern, clean and ultimately transitional – a creative vision anchored in functionality and artistry! A powder room remodel was added to the project that beautifully compliments the kitchen aesthetic. The entire staircase, all trim & doors were painted in the same tones as the kitchen, transforming the entire first floor into a cohesive & welcoming space. It was a great collaborative partnership!

Design objectives for the remodel were aimed at maximizing the flow and functionality of a foodie-level kitchen with multiple cooks, while enhancing the family’s preferences for spending time in the space together: Create a better workflow Space out the appliances for better use of the kitchen area Make the space feel larger visually Update all materials so the kitchen isn’t all wood No seating at an island or peninsula Larger walkways Brighten up the space with more lights and lighter colors THE REMODEL Design challenges to be solved: The idea was to work within the current walls of the kitchen. Without removing walls, it was more of a challenge to give the kitchen a larger, new feel. An island in the middle area was part of the original vision. Could a different countertop arrangement incorporate the same purpose? The homeowners are big cooks so creating room for a larger refrigerator and more countertop space by the range were musts! The sink and range were originally right next to each other, making things tough for two cooks to work at the same time. How could the new space allow for two work areas while minimizing traffic jams? THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions fell into place once the overall layout was revamped to improve flow and functionality: The refrigerator was originally in the middle of the main walkway. To gain more walk space and room for a larger refrigerator, we moved this appliance to the back wall. The final design still has a peninsula but we flipped it to the opposite wall. This way, the walkway is more accommodating for traffic entering and exiting through the back garage door. This also gave way to a longer run of countertop space along the cooking wall. To take cooking to another level, we implemented a speed oven! The large window by the eating area is also nice for cooks to see, so we kept the sink in the peninsula. To gain space for storage and make the kitchen feel larger, we brought the wall cabinets all the way to the ceiling. What once felt tight now feels grand!

The original intent of this project was to replace the island, hood, countertops, and a few appliances. A primary bath remodel was the main priority. But once the couple realized certain features would enhance the functionality of the kitchen – not to mention completely change the aesthetic – they put the master bath on hold and decided to remodel the entire kitchen first. Design objectives: -Omit separate table, plan for a larger island that would seat 7 people -Simple, clean lines – no rounded corners or weird angles -Nothing trendy – use modern classic details -Uncluttered countertops -Better pantry storage for food & small appliances -Integrated major appliances -Coffee bar -Avoid “1 color on perimeter with second color on island” -Integrate a harmonious variety of finishes -Integrate black & handmade metals Design challenges: -Island shape to fit within confines of existing half wall between kitchen & family room & bay window/door to backyard -Narrow kitchen with major walkway -Planning for 7 seats at the island -Keep guest social area away from the cook’s zone -Place appliances according to use -Point-of-use storage for an avid cook within a relatively small space -Integrate colors without looking too busy THE NEW KITCHEN -While the island is mostly rectangular, the seating area utilizes the bay extension without interfering with the exterior door -All seating is placed on the outside perimeter of the island, giving the cook dedicated prep space -The L-shaped seating area & adjacent coffee bar encourage guests to gather on the outside edge of the kitchen where they can still interact with the cook -Island prep space includes 5 feet of versatile drawer storage, double waste basket and an open paper towel dispenser -One pantry designated for food; the other for small appliances & bulk storage; creates visual armoire look -Microwave drawer in island faces refrigerator for easy access & less interference with cook’s zone -Appliance garages avoid clutter on the countertops -Off-white upper cabinets make the kitchen look larger while the black bases offer contrast without closing in the space Once the client committed to remodeling her entire kitchen, she had a good idea of the direction she wanted the space to take. Even so, there were many details that remained open to explore & contemplate. The end result is modern, clean and ultimately transitional – a creative vision anchored in functionality and artistry! A powder room remodel was added to the project that beautifully compliments the kitchen aesthetic. The entire staircase, all trim & doors were painted in the same tones as the kitchen, transforming the entire first floor into a cohesive & welcoming space. It was a great collaborative partnership!

Design objectives for the remodel were aimed at maximizing the flow and functionality of a foodie-level kitchen with multiple cooks, while enhancing the family’s preferences for spending time in the space together: Create a better workflow Space out the appliances for better use of the kitchen area Make the space feel larger visually Update all materials so the kitchen isn’t all wood No seating at an island or peninsula Larger walkways Brighten up the space with more lights and lighter colors THE REMODEL Design challenges to be solved: The idea was to work within the current walls of the kitchen. Without removing walls, it was more of a challenge to give the kitchen a larger, new feel. An island in the middle area was part of the original vision. Could a different countertop arrangement incorporate the same purpose? The homeowners are big cooks so creating room for a larger refrigerator and more countertop space by the range were musts! The sink and range were originally right next to each other, making things tough for two cooks to work at the same time. How could the new space allow for two work areas while minimizing traffic jams? THE RENEWED SPACE Design solutions fell into place once the overall layout was revamped to improve flow and functionality: The refrigerator was originally in the middle of the main walkway. To gain more walk space and room for a larger refrigerator, we moved this appliance to the back wall. The final design still has a peninsula but we flipped it to the opposite wall. This way, the walkway is more accommodating for traffic entering and exiting through the back garage door. This also gave way to a longer run of countertop space along the cooking wall. To take cooking to another level, we implemented a speed oven! The large window by the eating area is also nice for cooks to see, so we kept the sink in the peninsula. To gain space for storage and make the kitchen feel larger, we brought the wall cabinets all the way to the ceiling. What once felt tight now feels grand!

The original intent of this project was to replace the island, hood, countertops, and a few appliances. A primary bath remodel was the main priority. But once the couple realized certain features would enhance the functionality of the kitchen – not to mention completely change the aesthetic – they put the master bath on hold and decided to remodel the entire kitchen first. Design objectives: -Omit separate table, plan for a larger island that would seat 7 people -Simple, clean lines – no rounded corners or weird angles -Nothing trendy – use modern classic details -Uncluttered countertops -Better pantry storage for food & small appliances -Integrated major appliances -Coffee bar -Avoid “1 color on perimeter with second color on island” -Integrate a harmonious variety of finishes -Integrate black & handmade metals Design challenges: -Island shape to fit within confines of existing half wall between kitchen & family room & bay window/door to backyard -Narrow kitchen with major walkway -Planning for 7 seats at the island -Keep guest social area away from the cook’s zone -Place appliances according to use -Point-of-use storage for an avid cook within a relatively small space -Integrate colors without looking too busy THE NEW KITCHEN -While the island is mostly rectangular, the seating area utilizes the bay extension without interfering with the exterior door -All seating is placed on the outside perimeter of the island, giving the cook dedicated prep space -The L-shaped seating area & adjacent coffee bar encourage guests to gather on the outside edge of the kitchen where they can still interact with the cook -Island prep space includes 5 feet of versatile drawer storage, double waste basket and an open paper towel dispenser -One pantry designated for food; the other for small appliances & bulk storage; creates visual armoire look -Microwave drawer in island faces refrigerator for easy access & less interference with cook’s zone -Appliance garages avoid clutter on the countertops -Off-white upper cabinets make the kitchen look larger while the black bases offer contrast without closing in the space Once the client committed to remodeling her entire kitchen, she had a good idea of the direction she wanted the space to take. Even so, there were many details that remained open to explore & contemplate. The end result is modern, clean and ultimately transitional – a creative vision anchored in functionality and artistry! A powder room remodel was added to the project that beautifully compliments the kitchen aesthetic. The entire staircase, all trim & doors were painted in the same tones as the kitchen, transforming the entire first floor into a cohesive & welcoming space. It was a great collaborative partnership!

Maybe you can relate to these empty nesters who reached out to us to design and build a new kitchen for their current and long term needs. They do lots of entertaining, have an extensive wine collection and enjoy welcoming more grandchildren into the family. Both cook, although he prefers his grill. They wanted their new kitchen to be an open space that is easier to move around in. They were also looking forward to more storage and new, state-of-the-art appliances. Design objectives: -New layout to accommodate large groups for frequent entertaining -Big island to seat as many people as possible Improve traffic flow by omitting a counter peninsula by the family room and other cabinet barriers -Main cooktop to face visitors with point-of-use spices, utensils, pots & pans nearby -Multiple cooking & refrigeration appliances -Plan for as much countertop space as possible for multiple cooks -Dedicated spaces needed for wine, liquor, cold drinks & decorative glassware -Incorporate special details such as thick or waterfall countertops, unique backsplash, wood accents -Need better task, ambient and general lighting -Make it beautiful – a kitchen the homeowners could be proud of -Seamlessly join kitchen with breakfast room, given load-bearing wall & various ceiling heights -Ensure the large, newly opened space remains intimate and inclusive -Determine how to best utilize the breakfast room, given limited availability of wall space with two sets of French doors and a large window -Relocating two ventilation ducts currently in a wall to be removed -Incorporate multiple appliances while adding functional storage -Integrate special details that wouldn’t be lost in a large room -Utilize multiple finishes and colors that provide continuity Design solutions: -The wall between the kitchen & breakfast nook was completely removed – the structural beam was shortened, providing the largest opening possible -One small wall section remained intact to relocate ductwork, which conveniently created an alcove for the dual refrigerator armoire -Two islands in the same finish visually join the elongated room -The cooking island includes necessary point-of-use storage along with a steam oven and additional storage on the opposite side The wide cooking island allows for two cooks to comfortably share the counter space, allowing casual interaction -The second island fills the center of the former breakfast room; tall cabinets in a contrasting finish flank the French doors and provide visual balance -The sizable second island provides seating for six on a conversation-conducive curve. It houses freezer drawers, a microwave drawer, an under-counter refrigerator, plus additional storage -Docking station inside drawer -Two cabinet styles in three finishes provide continuity, balance and interest in the large room While the clients didn’t have a specific vision of the remodeled space, they were completely open to new ideas and knew which features they wanted when they saw them. They were truly doing the project for their own enjoyment and that of their family and guests. We’re happy to know they are thrilled with the end result. In fact, we had so much fun working together we’re now talking about a new project!