Custom Cabinetry Showcase
Lauren Tolles and Tori Olijar
Maison Birmingham, Birmingham, MI
In its previous life, the space for Maison Birmingham’s new retail and office space was a dentist’s office – in fact, it had been such for over 50 years. Accordingly, nitrous oxide lines ran throughout the floors and ceiling, while the walls were lead-lined for x-rays. On the bright side, the suite did have its own bathroom, which would prove ideal for showcasing products.
The vision for the space was a showcase of the firm’s custom cabinetry and millwork offerings, as well as Kallista and Kohler plumbing fixtures. The finished showroom includes a full kitchen, a bar and butler’s pantry, the overhauled and fully functional bath and a work studio in which to meet clients, conduct business and hold company meetings. Wallpaper adds a sweet, playful touch to some of the display rooms.
The work studio, located toward the back of the showroom, is centered around an antique dining table of burled walnut that belonged to Lauren Tolles’ mother, which is now seeing a second life as a partners’ desk. The table is located next to two additional workstations for designers’ use. As a fun and whimsical feature, a secret bookcase door connects the work studio to the atelier.
