This robust, custom-fabricated base cabinet perfectly balances heavy-duty industrial utility with refined modern design. Built on a thick, welded steel skeleton, the piece features a beautiful, solid dark wood countertop and matching solid wood side panels that bring natural warmth to the raw metal aesthetic. Designed for seamless appliance integration, the upper section houses a built-in stainless steel ZLINE microwave drawer. Below the appliance bay, the unit offers functional lower storage accessed via custom double doors fitted with industrial expanded steel mesh inserts. Engineered for maximum durability and structural depth, these steel-framed mesh doors are purposefully designed to overlap the main face frame behind them by exactly .25 inches. This strict overlay construction avoids flat inset designs, resulting in a striking, dimensional profile that highlights the premium, heavy-duty hinges and craftsmanship.

A bento box is more than just a lunch container—it’s a reflection of Japanese culture, mindful eating, and balanced nutrition. Traditionally used in Japan, bento boxes have gained global popularity due to their practicality, aesthetic appeal, and ability to promote healthy eating habits. What Is a Bento Box? A bento box is a single-portion packed meal, neatly arranged in a compartmentalized container. The word “bento” originates from the Chinese term meaning convenient, which perfectly describes its purpose. A typical bento includes rice or noodles, protein like fish, meat, or tofu, and a variety of vegetables or side dishes, all placed in separate sections to maintain flavor and presentation. Cultural Significance of Bento Boxes In Japan, bento boxes represent care, effort, and balance. Parents often prepare bento meals for their children as a symbol of love, while office workers rely on them for nutritious meals during busy days. Special versions like ekiben (railway station bento) and character bento (decorated meals shaped like animals or cartoons) highlight the creativity and cultural importance of bento-making. Health Benefits of Using a Bento Box One of the biggest advantages of a bento box is its role in portion control and balanced nutrition. Since the box has fixed compartments, it encourages variety without overeating. A well-prepared bento typically follows the principle of: 40–50% carbohydrates 30–40% vegetables 20–30% protein This balance helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and reduces the reliance on unhealthy fast food. Modern Bento Boxes and Their Uses Today’s bento boxes are designed to suit modern lifestyles. They are available in microwave-safe, leak-proof, and eco-friendly materials such as stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and bamboo fiber. Many come with insulated layers, sauce containers, and cutlery, making them ideal for: Office lunches School meals Travel and picnics Fitness and meal-prep routines With the rise of sustainable living, reusable bento boxes also help reduce single-use plastic waste. Bento Boxes in Everyday Life Bento boxes are no longer limited to Japanese cuisine. People worldwide use them to pack Indian, Western, vegan, or keto meals. From chapati and sabzi to pasta and salads, bento boxes adapt easily to different food preferences while keeping meals fresh and organized. Why Bento Boxes Are So Popular Today The popularity of bento boxes is driven by busy schedules, health awareness, and social media trends. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest showcase beautifully arranged bento meals, inspiring people to eat better and enjoy the process of food preparation. They combine functionality, aesthetics, and mindfulness, making meals more enjoyable. Conclusion A bento box is a smart and stylish way to enjoy homemade meals while staying healthy and organized. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, save money, or reduce environmental impact, a bento box offers a simple yet effective solution. With its deep cultural roots and modern versatility, the bento box continues to be a timeless companion for everyday meals.

  Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This client was referred to us from a past client. They are a busy 2-career household with young children and enjoy entertaining friends and family in their home. They have a beautiful open concept home but unfortunately the kitchen was not fitting for the rest of the home. They were not quite sure what to do with the space. We talked about trying to refresh it or do more of a minor remodel, but in the end they decided a full gut would get them to where they wanted to be. One problem was there was no place for guests to hang out other than the large and awkward banquette area. The brick wall and tiled hood area were feeling a bit dated and tired. The space was just not functional for their lifestyle. There was no prep space near the cooktop and no landing area for items coming out of the ovens or refrigerator, plus a big dead zone in the center of the room. Banquettes, like the one they previously had in the space, are great for small spaces, but when they get really large like this one, it makes getting in and out of the seating area awkward and uncomfortable. Plus, there was room for a large table, so we eliminated the awkward built in. We started by removing the faux brick wall between the kitchen and back entry. We relocated the entry to the garage over a couple feet in order to get every last inch out of the new kitchen. We also made the decision to close up the primary window that faced the pretty ho hum brick wall of the neighbor’s house. There was plenty of light coming in from the seating area, so we just didn’t feel the window was adding much to the room. Construction went smoothy. There was a bit of rework with electrical, flooring and HVAC, but in the end, we think it was well worth it. The clients really wanted a sleek contemporary look, and we originally had planned for a full height slab backsplash, but due to it’s size, it was a budget buster. Instead, we got creative and settled on large format porcelain tiles that have a similar feel but were a fraction of the cost. We made sure the wall was plumb and level so that the fit and finish would mimic that of slab material. The final space was quite a change. A large prep sink sits directly across from the new pro-style range with plenty additional prep space on the large island. The refrigerator and ovens now have miles of landing space, and a nice tight work triangle makes cooking a breeze. Since we wanted a more contemporary feel, not many wall cabinets were included. Instead, we outfitted some of the drawers for dish storage with a peg system. Two large pantries flanking the refrigerator hold baking supplies and small appliances. Large drawers by the cooktop hold pots and pans, and an appliance garage tucked away to the left of the range hides away miscellaneous items. The large island also houses a microwave drawer and tons of storage, most of which is drawers offering maximum convenience. The island now seats 5-6 people comfortably along with the new table in the seating area which can seat up to 8. Entertaining will be a breeze in this space. With such a clean backdrop, we knew we would need some drama with the lighting, so we chose two sets of staggered pendants, which we adjusted for the right visual balance above the island. We also included a small coffee station to the right of the main kitchen, which helps keep the coffee clutter out of the kitchen proper. Two tones of complimentary gray are featured in this kitchen. The perimeter is a light gray that reads almost white. The island is a gray stain that adds some depth and interest with the visible wood texture. The countertops are clean white quartz, and the hardware, barstools and light fixtures add warm brass tones. I see lots of cooking and entertaining with family and friends in the near future in this bright and airy new space. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

A gorgeous contemporary kitchen design was created by deleting the range, microwave and incorporating a cooktop, under counter oven and hood. The microwave was relocated and an under counter microwave was incorporated into the design. These appliances were moved to balance the design and create a perfect symmetry. The washer & dryer were incorporated within the cabinetry so they would not invade the visual appeal. Products used were Poggenpohl High Gloss Cubanit with automated horizontal bi-fold uppers. Slim line handles was used on the cabinetry to maintain the minimalistic design. A large island designed to create a bold yet appealing horizontal design. Quartz tops were used. The Final results of a gorgeous kitchen

Repeat clients of Mountainwood Homes traded their rural property for a downtown Camas, Washington charmer to enjoy a walkable lifestyle while their children finish high school. They bought an original, 1954 midcentury modern home intending to remodel it as a transitional family space before college. The whole house renovation balances modern living with respect for the original architectural character, blending contemporary finishes and functional upgrades to preserve its midcentury charm.

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Large elegant l-shaped medium tone wood floor eat-in kitchen photo in Other with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, dark wood cabinets, granite countertops, blue backsplash, porcelain backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

Kitchen - large transitional l-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor kitchen idea in New York with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, gray backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and black countertops

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This large kitchen had a lot going for it in terms of the large open space and work triangle, however the honey oak cabinets and laminate countertops left a lot to be desired. The small range was replaced with a large pro-style cooktop. Space from an existing pantry was reworked to allow for the addition of double ovens, refrigerator and butler pantry type storage. A new larger window was added and relocated to allow for better placement of the sink, and a bar area was redesigned into a more functional and visually pleasing area. This young family wanted a unique design that was not a “cookie cutter” space. To accomplish this, Klimala designed a large custom hood flanked by large storage cabinets. The hood area is a steel gray repeating the color of the island giving each of those areas equal weight and a sense of balance. The large island that houses storage and a microwave drawer is topped with a walnut butcher block. The walnut is repeated at the mantle hood and in some shallow shelving for spice storage near the cooktop. Hardworking gray quartz countertops were chosen for the rest of the space and gray limestone brick adds some texture to the backsplash area. The unique circular glass mosaic tile at the cooktop provides a stunning focal point. Globe shaped pendants repeat the circle theme above the island. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This inviting gourmet kitchen designed by Curtis Lumber Co., Inc. is perfect for the entertaining lifestyle of the homeowners who wanted a modern farmhouse kitchen in a new construction build. The look was achieved by mixing in a warmer white finish on the upper cabinets with warmer wood tones for the base cabinets and island. The cabinetry is Merillat Masterpiece, Ganon Full overlay Evercore in Warm White Suede sheen on the upper cabinets and Ganon Full overlay Cherry Barley Suede sheen on the base cabinets and floating shelves. The leg of the island has a beautiful taper to it providing a beautiful architectural detail. Shiplap on the window wall and on the back of the island adds a little extra texture to the space. A microwave drawer in a base cabinet, placed near the refrigerator, creates a separate cooking zone. Tucked in on the outskirts of the kitchen is a beverage refrigerator providing easy access away from cooking areas Ascendra Pulls from Tob Knobs in flat black adorn the cabinetry. Photos property of Curtis Lumber Co., Inc.

A compact Prewar galley kitchen becomes a classic masterpiece with renovations including detailed custom cabinetry, period pewter hardware, statement crown molding, honed statuary marble and modern appliances. Meticulous space planning, an informed aesthetic balance and state of the art appliances provide this kitchen a fresh, chic lease on life.

Large trendy l-shaped porcelain tile and beige floor eat-in kitchen photo in Salt Lake City with a farmhouse sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite countertops, gray backsplash, stone tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and gray countertops

We had a blast helping Maggie & Chris with their kitchen renovation project. After planning with Maggie we knew it was our mission to transform their outdated kitchen into a modern and bright area. The perimeter cabinets were refinished, and a new custom island finished in colors from Sherwin Williams. The perimeter cabinet is Snowbound, and the Island is Online. In the design of the custom Island, they wanted to remove the countertop microwave. The new island features the built-in appliance and accommodate a beverage fridge. Because this island would be a family meeting place. They asked us to equip the island for maximum charging devices. To balance the two-toned cabinets, we installed a darker countertop on the perimeter called Metropolitan Grey. Metropolitan Grey has a concrete texture that added a whole new dimension to the project. The island countertop is called Arabescato Como. Which adds a clean and classic appearance to the project. Both countertops are sustainable quartz from Arizona Tile. For the backsplash we wanted to go classic. Carrara Marble Bianco Carrara Hexagon. This mosaic was a mix of the cool and warm tones which highlighted the other selections of the home. We grouted the mosaic with a warm grey grout which makes the individual hexagons pop and warm the space. With Maggie’s personality we had to install these pendant lights. This pendant has many different installation options, we installed them in a unique pattern which gives it a nice three-dimensional element. Ahwatukee Kitchen Remodel... We had a blast helping Maggie & Chris with their kitchen renovation project. After planning with Maggie we knew it was our mission to transform their outdated kitchen into a modern and bright area. The perimeter cabinets were refinished, and a new custom island finished in colors from Sherwin Williams. The perimeter cabinet is Snowbound, and the Island is Online. In the design of the custom Island, they wanted to remove the countertop microwave. The new island features the built-in appliance and accommodate a beverage fridge. Because this island would be a family meeting place. They asked us to equip the island for maximum charging devices. To balance the two-toned cabinets, we installed a darker countertop on the perimeter called Metropolitan Grey. Metropolitan Grey has a concrete texture that added a whole new dimension to the project. The island countertop is called Arabescato Como. Which adds a clean and classic appearance to the project. Both countertops are sustainable quartz from Arizona Tile. For the backsplash we wanted to go classic. Carrara Marble Bianco Carrara Hexagon. This mosaic was a mix of the cool and warm tones which highlighted the other selections of the home. We grouted the mosaic with a warm grey grout which makes the individual hexagons pop and warm the space. With Maggie’s personality we had to install these pendant lights. This pendant has many different installation options, we installed them in a unique pattern which gives it a nice three-dimensional element. spacious kitchen renovation in phoenix az kitchen island with white countertop remodeling phoenix az With the help of our designer, picking every element for the new kitchen, each one of them provides a unique and sleek feel. A few items that help achieve that sleek look, was a modern modular stainless steel kitchen sink that came with accessories such as a removable drying rack, cutting board and a waste basket for food prep. The faucet comes from Delta. The Delta Essa kitchen faucet in matte black provides that slim low-profile. Finally, the kitchen was painted with Sherwin William Drift Of Mist. This color is a chameleon and is a champ of tying warm tones to cool tones. The crisp line of white from the cabinetry to the natural wood tones in the floor.

We had a blast helping Maggie & Chris with their kitchen renovation project. After planning with Maggie we knew it was our mission to transform their outdated kitchen into a modern and bright area. The perimeter cabinets were refinished, and a new custom island finished in colors from Sherwin Williams. The perimeter cabinet is Snowbound, and the Island is Online. In the design of the custom Island, they wanted to remove the countertop microwave. The new island features the built-in appliance and accommodate a beverage fridge. Because this island would be a family meeting place. They asked us to equip the island for maximum charging devices. To balance the two-toned cabinets, we installed a darker countertop on the perimeter called Metropolitan Grey. Metropolitan Grey has a concrete texture that added a whole new dimension to the project. The island countertop is called Arabescato Como. Which adds a clean and classic appearance to the project. Both countertops are sustainable quartz from Arizona Tile. For the backsplash we wanted to go classic. Carrara Marble Bianco Carrara Hexagon. This mosaic was a mix of the cool and warm tones which highlighted the other selections of the home. We grouted the mosaic with a warm grey grout which makes the individual hexagons pop and warm the space. With Maggie’s personality we had to install these pendant lights. This pendant has many different installation options, we installed them in a unique pattern which gives it a nice three-dimensional element. Ahwatukee Kitchen Remodel... We had a blast helping Maggie & Chris with their kitchen renovation project. After planning with Maggie we knew it was our mission to transform their outdated kitchen into a modern and bright area. The perimeter cabinets were refinished, and a new custom island finished in colors from Sherwin Williams. The perimeter cabinet is Snowbound, and the Island is Online. In the design of the custom Island, they wanted to remove the countertop microwave. The new island features the built-in appliance and accommodate a beverage fridge. Because this island would be a family meeting place. They asked us to equip the island for maximum charging devices. To balance the two-toned cabinets, we installed a darker countertop on the perimeter called Metropolitan Grey. Metropolitan Grey has a concrete texture that added a whole new dimension to the project. The island countertop is called Arabescato Como. Which adds a clean and classic appearance to the project. Both countertops are sustainable quartz from Arizona Tile. For the backsplash we wanted to go classic. Carrara Marble Bianco Carrara Hexagon. This mosaic was a mix of the cool and warm tones which highlighted the other selections of the home. We grouted the mosaic with a warm grey grout which makes the individual hexagons pop and warm the space. With Maggie’s personality we had to install these pendant lights. This pendant has many different installation options, we installed them in a unique pattern which gives it a nice three-dimensional element. spacious kitchen renovation in phoenix az kitchen island with white countertop remodeling phoenix az With the help of our designer, picking every element for the new kitchen, each one of them provides a unique and sleek feel. A few items that help achieve that sleek look, was a modern modular stainless steel kitchen sink that came with accessories such as a removable drying rack, cutting board and a waste basket for food prep. The faucet comes from Delta. The Delta Essa kitchen faucet in matte black provides that slim low-profile. Finally, the kitchen was painted with Sherwin William Drift Of Mist. This color is a chameleon and is a champ of tying warm tones to cool tones. The crisp line of white from the cabinetry to the natural wood tones in the floor.

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!

Splashes of turquoise inspire fun and bring a vibrant feel to this hilltop Yarmouth, Maine, home. Corner windows allow the sun to warm the bright colors inside. Fresh, white cabinetry and wood countertops balance one another out. And industrial touches like the weathered range hood pair with the classic trellised chair patterns seen on the island barstools, lending the home a unique and balanced personality. A true modern statement with a classic touch.

We had a blast helping Maggie & Chris with their kitchen renovation project. After planning with Maggie we knew it was our mission to transform their outdated kitchen into a modern and bright area. The perimeter cabinets were refinished, and a new custom island finished in colors from Sherwin Williams. The perimeter cabinet is Snowbound, and the Island is Online. In the design of the custom Island, they wanted to remove the countertop microwave. The new island features the built-in appliance and accommodate a beverage fridge. Because this island would be a family meeting place. They asked us to equip the island for maximum charging devices. To balance the two-toned cabinets, we installed a darker countertop on the perimeter called Metropolitan Grey. Metropolitan Grey has a concrete texture that added a whole new dimension to the project. The island countertop is called Arabescato Como. Which adds a clean and classic appearance to the project. Both countertops are sustainable quartz from Arizona Tile. For the backsplash we wanted to go classic. Carrara Marble Bianco Carrara Hexagon. This mosaic was a mix of the cool and warm tones which highlighted the other selections of the home. We grouted the mosaic with a warm grey grout which makes the individual hexagons pop and warm the space. With Maggie’s personality we had to install these pendant lights. This pendant has many different installation options, we installed them in a unique pattern which gives it a nice three-dimensional element. Ahwatukee Kitchen Remodel... We had a blast helping Maggie & Chris with their kitchen renovation project. After planning with Maggie we knew it was our mission to transform their outdated kitchen into a modern and bright area. The perimeter cabinets were refinished, and a new custom island finished in colors from Sherwin Williams. The perimeter cabinet is Snowbound, and the Island is Online. In the design of the custom Island, they wanted to remove the countertop microwave. The new island features the built-in appliance and accommodate a beverage fridge. Because this island would be a family meeting place. They asked us to equip the island for maximum charging devices. To balance the two-toned cabinets, we installed a darker countertop on the perimeter called Metropolitan Grey. Metropolitan Grey has a concrete texture that added a whole new dimension to the project. The island countertop is called Arabescato Como. Which adds a clean and classic appearance to the project. Both countertops are sustainable quartz from Arizona Tile. For the backsplash we wanted to go classic. Carrara Marble Bianco Carrara Hexagon. This mosaic was a mix of the cool and warm tones which highlighted the other selections of the home. We grouted the mosaic with a warm grey grout which makes the individual hexagons pop and warm the space. With Maggie’s personality we had to install these pendant lights. This pendant has many different installation options, we installed them in a unique pattern which gives it a nice three-dimensional element. spacious kitchen renovation in phoenix az kitchen island with white countertop remodeling phoenix az With the help of our designer, picking every element for the new kitchen, each one of them provides a unique and sleek feel. A few items that help achieve that sleek look, was a modern modular stainless steel kitchen sink that came with accessories such as a removable drying rack, cutting board and a waste basket for food prep. The faucet comes from Delta. The Delta Essa kitchen faucet in matte black provides that slim low-profile. Finally, the kitchen was painted with Sherwin William Drift Of Mist. This color is a chameleon and is a champ of tying warm tones to cool tones. The crisp line of white from the cabinetry to the natural wood tones in the floor.

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!

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!

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!