This kitchen replaced one that didn’t work for the homeowners: it featured dark brown and orange granite, traditionally styled white painted cabinets, a built-in desk, a small island with a cooktop and hood above, subpar lighting, and an unusable layout which all contributed to making a kitchen that didn’t meet their needs or taste.
Our clients’ request started with bright even lighting, both natural and electric, along with a more subdued style, to give the room a lighter, more contemporary feel. Lots of storage, big, usable counters, seating for guests, and a special bar near the breakfast area gave them the space they needed to exercise their amazing cooking skills.
Italian flairs reference the husband’s heritage: a special espresso station, Italian marble backsplash, and custom bar with wine storage for the couple’s collection. All the while still blending with the mid-century furnishings, custom contemporary cabinet door style, and modern white marble-look quartz countertops.
The subtly patterned, light gray vertical wall tiles create a modern, low-key visual contrast with the walnut toe kick and the horizontal walnut trim found on the wall and island cabinets. Lit edges on the fronts of the floating shelves in the bar and around the bottom of the hood extend the linear theme. Moving the hood to the back wall freed up space to add a second sink for prep work, cabinetry for the cutting board storage in the island, and additional space for guest seating.
Given the client’s brief, the unique variety of their selections, and collaborative attention to detail, this light gray and walnut kitchen doesn’t disappoint.
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Note: the September/October 2018 issue of Chapel Hill Magazine featured this kitchen as part of a profile on our clients’ home.
