After
The wall was removed and rather than utilizing the planned eat-in area, three tall pantries were installed. This allowed for a significantly longer island and larger capacity breakfast bar. Several pot lights were installed and put on dimmers. To add interest, the install... More Details »
Before
The builder’s kitchen plan called for an eat-in area and breakfast bar, however the cabinetry would not allow for any real storage, making the space felt very cramped. There was actually no real need for an eat-in area as the dining room was only steps away. The other iss... More Details »
Proposed kitchen layout
The breakfast bar was small and cramped for two people. There was very limited counter space and storage. And there was a very real sense of imbalance between the various sides of the room.
Basic rough-ins
White builder floor tiles and white globe lighting were basically a blank slate.
Establishing a style
Rather than using a standard hood, a slick slide-out version was opted for. A stainless steel backsplash was installed to play off on the appliances. There is ample counter space and glass upper cabinet doors flank the cooktop.
Balance and unity
Behind the doors on the island cabinets are a series of drawers which help to maximize storage solutions. The valance lighting panels utilize the same stainless steel as the lower backsplash and provide consistent coverage and protection behind the sink and under the wind... More Details »
Up against a wall
Another picture of the separating wall and the basic lighting provided.
The main cabinetry run
The stainless steel backsplash was continued on the island, though it is one long piece rather than tiles. The longer island allowed for more versatility with the placement of appliances – the built-in stove is shown here. Note the detail of the side panels on the island.... More Details »
Faux detail
The column did not suit the
design aesthetic in any way. The stairs were partially walled and had the same columnar detail as the walls leading into the kitchen area. The column could not easily be left here and removed elsewhere. Not to mention that the space felt very ... More Details »
After
The wall and column that defined the staircase were removed to create a much more open and modern feeling. The stairs and railings were stained darker than the floors as a point of interest. It plays off of the custom wooden wine rack in the pantry units and the dark wood... More Details »
Modern, clean lines with "wow" factor
The kitchen was in the raw builder phase when it was acquired and needed everything – flooring, electrical work, plumbing, mouldings, finishes, cabinetry, accessories, and appliances. However, the main challenge was to meet the budget constraints of the owner. To keep prices down for the cabinetry, the designer was able to work with the builder’s cabinet company, taking maximum advantage of the given allowance. The client paid the balance and was also (fortunately) able to negotiate for any style granite countertop when purchasing the home. That left the majority of the budget to focus on the stainless steel elements – the appliances, backsplash, and cabinet accents - to create the clean, modern and dramatic look, desired.
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