Search results for "Italian preparing" in Home Design Ideas

This handsome custom-built home was designed for the Cayuga Lake views. This home has been painstakingly maintained and renovated to prepare it for the new homeowners. The formal living room boasts incredible lake views and hardwood floors that flow seamlessly into the formal dining room. Curved doorways welcome you and your guests into the formal dining room, the candle chandelier and matching sconces add a touch of elegance. The eat-in kitchen boasts custom maple wood cabinetry, Venetian gold granite, 3-person island, pantry, stainless steel appliances, tile flooring and access to the private Italianate-style perennial garden with stone patio and raised beds featuring Japanese maple, fragrant lavender, English-style roses, and boxwood hedge. Let’s not forget that the lake view extends the length of this home, right into the family room. Expansive, panoramic views can be seen from here and the large deck as well. The gas fireplace and custom-designed red oak bookcases create a cozy master study atmosphere; the actual study is right off the living room and overlooks the lush garden. The first and second floor was freshly painted. Up the custom-designed red oak staircase with ebony-inlaid, awaits your sleeping quarters. The over-sized master suite offers breathtaking views, an exquisite brand new, never used en-suite with custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, double sink vanity, large tiled shower with glass surround and soaker tub. The master also features his & her walk-in closets. The additional 3 upper-level bedrooms each offer something unique; window seats with storage, walk-in closets, secret passage, hardwood floors, and lake or garden views. The shared hall bathroom is also brand new and features quartz counters, an over-sized double vanity, and a brand-new floor-to-ceiling tiled bath. The lower level is your guest and hosting quarters! The in-law suite includes a bedroom, bathroom, and sitting room. The massive media room is wired for surround sound and leads out of new French doors onto a patio with pergola and hot tub. Buy with confidence, this home is part of the 100% Money Back Guarantee Program, certain terms and conditions apply.
Jolene Rightmyer-Macolini
Lic. Associate R.E. Broker
cell: 607-339-1559
Jolene@SellsYourProperty.com
Office: 710 Hancock St. Ithaca, NY 14850

Everywhere you look, there is a stunning statement piece to behold! This kitchen showcases distinct custom-made items, including a striking chandelier, dining table, and a large copper range hood. A stunning copper corner sink, 48” Italian range, and the integrated (paneled) appliances are other unique features that make this space so exceptional. The custom cabinetry around the perimeter of the kitchen is a muted, sage green, bordered by full-height backsplash tile. Perimeter countertops are a light white quartz with subtle black veining, keeping the space bright and providing a low-maintenance, durable workspace. Inspired by the style of New England, we selected brick floors for this kitchen, a design element very typical of that region.
The cabinet design balances plenty of open and closed storage. In the corner of the kitchen, there is a roll up appliance garage which conceals the microwave and other small countertop appliances. Another special feature in this kitchen is the bar/prep space where barware and serveware can be displayed behind glass front doors. Conveniently located across from this is an integrated beverage fridge which allows guests to conveniently grab a drink whenever they like.
The L-shaped cherry island was stained a warm and rich color, providing a striking contrast to the soft sage tones of the perimeter cabinetry. The island countertop is a bold Brazilian Smoke Soapstone, which harmonizes well with the oil-rubbed bronze elements throughout. The soapstone counters appear dark gray, but a closer look reveals clouds of a brilliant jade-colored green. On the backside of the island there is a rounded banquette that defines this new, integrated dining area. It’s a unique gathering place where guests can be connected to those preparing a meal. A local furniture craftsman built a one-of-a-kind cherry and mahogany dining set for this banquette, which extends from 5’ diameter to 7’ diameter to accommodate a crowd. Above the table is the custom chandelier, forged in New England, the perfect center showpiece!

Everywhere you look, there is a stunning statement piece to behold! This kitchen showcases distinct custom-made items, including a striking chandelier, dining table, and a large copper range hood. A stunning copper corner sink, 48” Italian range, and the integrated (paneled) appliances are other unique features that make this space so exceptional. The custom cabinetry around the perimeter of the kitchen is a muted, sage green, bordered by full-height backsplash tile. Perimeter countertops are a light white quartz with subtle black veining, keeping the space bright and providing a low-maintenance, durable workspace. Inspired by the style of New England, we selected brick floors for this kitchen, a design element very typical of that region.
The cabinet design balances plenty of open and closed storage. In the corner of the kitchen, there is a roll up appliance garage which conceals the microwave and other small countertop appliances. Another special feature in this kitchen is the bar/prep space where barware and serveware can be displayed behind glass front doors. Conveniently located across from this is an integrated beverage fridge which allows guests to conveniently grab a drink whenever they like.
The L-shaped cherry island was stained a warm and rich color, providing a striking contrast to the soft sage tones of the perimeter cabinetry. The island countertop is a bold Brazilian Smoke Soapstone, which harmonizes well with the oil-rubbed bronze elements throughout. The soapstone counters appear dark gray, but a closer look reveals clouds of a brilliant jade-colored green. On the backside of the island there is a rounded banquette that defines this new, integrated dining area. It’s a unique gathering place where guests can be connected to those preparing a meal. A local furniture craftsman built a one-of-a-kind cherry and mahogany dining set for this banquette, which extends from 5’ diameter to 7’ diameter to accommodate a crowd. Above the table is the custom chandelier, forged in New England, the perfect center showpiece!
Find the right local pro for your project

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.

Dura Supreme Cabinetry, Kaminsky Productions. Confetti globe pendant lights illuminate the remarkable quartz countertop. Enjoy coffee just a reach away from the utility sink with clever cabinet storage behind it. Beautiful Dura Supreme cabinets set the stage for this traditional custom kitchen. Enjoy natural illumination from the lightwell or soft recessed lighting in the evening.

Stepping into this modern kitchen is like entering a realm where elegant minimalism meets sophisticated grandeur. Dominated by the sleek simplicity of slab grey doors and the opulent allure of marble-style quartz countertops, this kitchen strikes a perfect balance between modern design and luxurious detailing.
Upon entering, your eyes are immediately drawn to the slab grey doors. Their understated hue exudes a quiet elegance that's both contemporary and timeless. The sleek, unadorned slab design speaks volumes about the modern design ethos - a celebration of clean lines, simplicity, and uncluttered aesthetics. The grey tone is neutral yet impactful, versatile enough to complement a range of color schemes while adding a hint of sophistication.
Contrasting the understated elegance of the grey slab doors, the marble-style quartz countertops introduce an element of grandeur to the kitchen. They instantly become a statement piece in the room, drawing attention with their captivating patterns and luxurious sheen. The quartz surface is not just aesthetically appealing, but also practical - it's highly durable, heat resistant, and easy to clean, embodying a perfect marriage of beauty and functionality.
The interplay between the smoky grey of the slab doors and the swirling patterns of the marble-style quartz creates a visual spectacle that's nothing short of mesmerizing. The cool tones of the grey slabs accentuate the white veins in the marble quartz, creating a seamless aesthetic flow throughout the kitchen.
State-of-the-art appliances nestle seamlessly into the slab grey units, their modern design and stainless steel finish reinforcing the room's contemporary vibe. Meanwhile, the lighting design enhances the beauty of the quartz countertops, with carefully placed pendants and under-cabinet LEDs accentuating their natural sheen and intricate patterns.
This modern kitchen, with its slab grey doors and marble-style quartz countertops, is a true testament to the idea that simplicity can be luxurious. It offers a visually stunning, highly functional space where every meal preparation becomes an indulgent experience. Here, modernity meets elegance, culminating in a kitchen that's both a pleasure to look at and a joy to use.

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.

Stepping into this modern kitchen is like entering a realm where elegant minimalism meets sophisticated grandeur. Dominated by the sleek simplicity of slab grey doors and the opulent allure of marble-style quartz countertops, this kitchen strikes a perfect balance between modern design and luxurious detailing.
Upon entering, your eyes are immediately drawn to the slab grey doors. Their understated hue exudes a quiet elegance that's both contemporary and timeless. The sleek, unadorned slab design speaks volumes about the modern design ethos - a celebration of clean lines, simplicity, and uncluttered aesthetics. The grey tone is neutral yet impactful, versatile enough to complement a range of color schemes while adding a hint of sophistication.
Contrasting the understated elegance of the grey slab doors, the marble-style quartz countertops introduce an element of grandeur to the kitchen. They instantly become a statement piece in the room, drawing attention with their captivating patterns and luxurious sheen. The quartz surface is not just aesthetically appealing, but also practical - it's highly durable, heat resistant, and easy to clean, embodying a perfect marriage of beauty and functionality.
The interplay between the smoky grey of the slab doors and the swirling patterns of the marble-style quartz creates a visual spectacle that's nothing short of mesmerizing. The cool tones of the grey slabs accentuate the white veins in the marble quartz, creating a seamless aesthetic flow throughout the kitchen.
State-of-the-art appliances nestle seamlessly into the slab grey units, their modern design and stainless steel finish reinforcing the room's contemporary vibe. Meanwhile, the lighting design enhances the beauty of the quartz countertops, with carefully placed pendants and under-cabinet LEDs accentuating their natural sheen and intricate patterns.
This modern kitchen, with its slab grey doors and marble-style quartz countertops, is a true testament to the idea that simplicity can be luxurious. It offers a visually stunning, highly functional space where every meal preparation becomes an indulgent experience. Here, modernity meets elegance, culminating in a kitchen that's both a pleasure to look at and a joy to use.

Gorgeous master bath finished with Dal-Tile's Fabrique porcelain tile in the color Noir Linen polished. Tile size is 12"x24" installed in a brick joint pattern. The floor boasts underfloor heating on a timed thermostat.

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Photo credit Chris Smith

Stepping into this modern kitchen is like entering a realm where elegant minimalism meets sophisticated grandeur. Dominated by the sleek simplicity of slab grey doors and the opulent allure of marble-style quartz countertops, this kitchen strikes a perfect balance between modern design and luxurious detailing.
Upon entering, your eyes are immediately drawn to the slab grey doors. Their understated hue exudes a quiet elegance that's both contemporary and timeless. The sleek, unadorned slab design speaks volumes about the modern design ethos - a celebration of clean lines, simplicity, and uncluttered aesthetics. The grey tone is neutral yet impactful, versatile enough to complement a range of color schemes while adding a hint of sophistication.
Contrasting the understated elegance of the grey slab doors, the marble-style quartz countertops introduce an element of grandeur to the kitchen. They instantly become a statement piece in the room, drawing attention with their captivating patterns and luxurious sheen. The quartz surface is not just aesthetically appealing, but also practical - it's highly durable, heat resistant, and easy to clean, embodying a perfect marriage of beauty and functionality.
The interplay between the smoky grey of the slab doors and the swirling patterns of the marble-style quartz creates a visual spectacle that's nothing short of mesmerizing. The cool tones of the grey slabs accentuate the white veins in the marble quartz, creating a seamless aesthetic flow throughout the kitchen.
State-of-the-art appliances nestle seamlessly into the slab grey units, their modern design and stainless steel finish reinforcing the room's contemporary vibe. Meanwhile, the lighting design enhances the beauty of the quartz countertops, with carefully placed pendants and under-cabinet LEDs accentuating their natural sheen and intricate patterns.
This modern kitchen, with its slab grey doors and marble-style quartz countertops, is a true testament to the idea that simplicity can be luxurious. It offers a visually stunning, highly functional space where every meal preparation becomes an indulgent experience. Here, modernity meets elegance, culminating in a kitchen that's both a pleasure to look at and a joy to use.

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Photo credit Chris Smith

Everywhere you look, there is a stunning statement piece to behold! This kitchen showcases distinct custom-made items, including a striking chandelier, dining table, and a large copper range hood. A stunning copper corner sink, 48” Italian range, and the integrated (paneled) appliances are other unique features that make this space so exceptional. The custom cabinetry around the perimeter of the kitchen is a muted, sage green, bordered by full-height backsplash tile. Perimeter countertops are a light white quartz with subtle black veining, keeping the space bright and providing a low-maintenance, durable workspace. Inspired by the style of New England, we selected brick floors for this kitchen, a design element very typical of that region.
The cabinet design balances plenty of open and closed storage. In the corner of the kitchen, there is a roll up appliance garage which conceals the microwave and other small countertop appliances. Another special feature in this kitchen is the bar/prep space where barware and serveware can be displayed behind glass front doors. Conveniently located across from this is an integrated beverage fridge which allows guests to conveniently grab a drink whenever they like.
The L-shaped cherry island was stained a warm and rich color, providing a striking contrast to the soft sage tones of the perimeter cabinetry. The island countertop is a bold Brazilian Smoke Soapstone, which harmonizes well with the oil-rubbed bronze elements throughout. The soapstone counters appear dark gray, but a closer look reveals clouds of a brilliant jade-colored green. On the backside of the island there is a rounded banquette that defines this new, integrated dining area. It’s a unique gathering place where guests can be connected to those preparing a meal. A local furniture craftsman built a one-of-a-kind cherry and mahogany dining set for this banquette, which extends from 5’ diameter to 7’ diameter to accommodate a crowd. Above the table is the custom chandelier, forged in New England, the perfect center showpiece!

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Photo credit Chris Smith

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Photo credit Chris Smith

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Photo credit Chris Smith

Everywhere you look, there is a stunning statement piece to behold! This kitchen showcases distinct custom-made items, including a striking chandelier, dining table, and a large copper range hood. A stunning copper corner sink, 48” Italian range, and the integrated (paneled) appliances are other unique features that make this space so exceptional. The custom cabinetry around the perimeter of the kitchen is a muted, sage green, bordered by full-height backsplash tile. Perimeter countertops are a light white quartz with subtle black veining, keeping the space bright and providing a low-maintenance, durable workspace. Inspired by the style of New England, we selected brick floors for this kitchen, a design element very typical of that region.
The cabinet design balances plenty of open and closed storage. In the corner of the kitchen, there is a roll up appliance garage which conceals the microwave and other small countertop appliances. Another special feature in this kitchen is the bar/prep space where barware and serveware can be displayed behind glass front doors. Conveniently located across from this is an integrated beverage fridge which allows guests to conveniently grab a drink whenever they like.
The L-shaped cherry island was stained a warm and rich color, providing a striking contrast to the soft sage tones of the perimeter cabinetry. The island countertop is a bold Brazilian Smoke Soapstone, which harmonizes well with the oil-rubbed bronze elements throughout. The soapstone counters appear dark gray, but a closer look reveals clouds of a brilliant jade-colored green. On the backside of the island there is a rounded banquette that defines this new, integrated dining area. It’s a unique gathering place where guests can be connected to those preparing a meal. A local furniture craftsman built a one-of-a-kind cherry and mahogany dining set for this banquette, which extends from 5’ diameter to 7’ diameter to accommodate a crowd. Above the table is the custom chandelier, forged in New England, the perfect center showpiece!

Stepping into this modern kitchen is like entering a realm where elegant minimalism meets sophisticated grandeur. Dominated by the sleek simplicity of slab grey doors and the opulent allure of marble-style quartz countertops, this kitchen strikes a perfect balance between modern design and luxurious detailing.
Upon entering, your eyes are immediately drawn to the slab grey doors. Their understated hue exudes a quiet elegance that's both contemporary and timeless. The sleek, unadorned slab design speaks volumes about the modern design ethos - a celebration of clean lines, simplicity, and uncluttered aesthetics. The grey tone is neutral yet impactful, versatile enough to complement a range of color schemes while adding a hint of sophistication.
Contrasting the understated elegance of the grey slab doors, the marble-style quartz countertops introduce an element of grandeur to the kitchen. They instantly become a statement piece in the room, drawing attention with their captivating patterns and luxurious sheen. The quartz surface is not just aesthetically appealing, but also practical - it's highly durable, heat resistant, and easy to clean, embodying a perfect marriage of beauty and functionality.
The interplay between the smoky grey of the slab doors and the swirling patterns of the marble-style quartz creates a visual spectacle that's nothing short of mesmerizing. The cool tones of the grey slabs accentuate the white veins in the marble quartz, creating a seamless aesthetic flow throughout the kitchen.
State-of-the-art appliances nestle seamlessly into the slab grey units, their modern design and stainless steel finish reinforcing the room's contemporary vibe. Meanwhile, the lighting design enhances the beauty of the quartz countertops, with carefully placed pendants and under-cabinet LEDs accentuating their natural sheen and intricate patterns.
This modern kitchen, with its slab grey doors and marble-style quartz countertops, is a true testament to the idea that simplicity can be luxurious. It offers a visually stunning, highly functional space where every meal preparation becomes an indulgent experience. Here, modernity meets elegance, culminating in a kitchen that's both a pleasure to look at and a joy to use.

Context
Norbert and Robin had dreamed of retiring in a Passive House-certified home overlooking the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Southeastern New Hampshire, and they’d done their homework. They were interested in using four integrated Zehnder America (www.zehnderamerica.com) technologies to make the 1,900 square foot home extremely energy efficient.
They didn’t miss any opportunity to innovate or raise the bar on sustainable design. Our goals were focused on guaranteeing their comfort in every season, saving them money on a fixed income, and reducing the home’s overall impact on the environment as much as possible.
Response
The home faces directly south and captures sunlight all winter under tall and vaulted ceilings and a continuous band of slim-lined, Italian triple-pane windows and doors that provide gorgeous views of the wild preserve. A second-story office nook and clerestory provide even deeper views, with a little more privacy.
Zehnder, which previously sold its innovative products only in Europe, took on the project as a test house. We designed around Zehnder’s vent-based systems, including a geothermal heat loop that heats and cools incoming air, a heat pump cooling system, electric towel-warmer radiators in the bathrooms, and a highly efficient energy recovery ventilator, which recycles heat and minimizes the need for air conditioning. The house effectively has no conventional heating system—and doesn’t need it. We also looked for efficiencies and smart solutions everywhere, from the lights to the windows to the insulation.
The kitchen exhaust hood eliminates, cleans, and recirculates cooking fumes in the home’s unique kitchen, custom-designed to match the ways Norbert likes to prepare meals. There are several countertop heights so they can prep and clean comfortably, and the eat-in kitchen also has two seating heights so people can sit and socialize while they’re working on dinner. An adjacent screened porch greets guests and opens to the view.
A roof-mounted solar system helps to ensure that the home generates more energy than it consumes—helped by features such as a heat pump water heater, superinsulation, LED lights and a polished concrete floor that helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Photo credit Chris Smith
8