ATLANTA — An awkward, inefficient kitchen with odd angles was the original canvas for Jerel Lake, a kitchen designer based in Atlanta, GA. The client was looking for a cheerful space that provided better function for her lifestyle, with a layout that would accommodate cooking and entertaining as well as deliver spaces for coffee preparation and pantry storage. A transitional style that would integrate some of the traditional elements of the home was requested, along with green cabinetry.
Lake began by removing builder-grade white laminate cabinets, a two-tiered angled peninsula with granite countertops and a small, angled pantry that took up an excessive amount of space. This allowed for a more linear layout, which improved the room’s overall functionality, according to the designer.
Per the client’s request for green cabinetry, Lake’s intent was to use the color in a sophisticated and elevated manner that aligned with the desire for a transitional space that included playful, whimsical elements.
A built-in refrigerator and a coffee station were situated near the breakfast area, with a 30″ built-in refrigerator on the opposite side. The removal of the angled pantry provided space for two decorative antique mirrored cabinets in the breakfast area: one for glasses, dishes and everyday items, and the other for dry pantry storage. The mirrored cabinets feature traditional mullion inserts for a classic touch. Orb-shaped knobs complement the light fixture over the breakfast table. Additional storage was also added behind the ovens for small appliances, books and extra dishes.
To break up the tall cabinetry and add a decorative touch, an art niche with arched opening and small countertop was created. A space for artwork, the niche is backed with a bold floral wallpaper.
Central to the design is the walnut “dresser” that serves as a prep station and creates a break for the marble countertop that aligns with the range wall. The dresser adds function as well as beauty as it houses a knife block, spice storage, cutlery divider and container organization. On the side of the dresser are additional rollout drawers for a mixer and bowls, accented by ring pulls to highlight the furniture-like quality of the cabinet. A walnut hood complements the dresser and is accented by minimal brass strapping.
“My goal was to use green on the cabinetry in a sophisticated and elevated manner that aligned with the client’s vision for a transitional space with playful, whimsical elements.”
- Green cabinetry was a client request, and the tone was used to elevate the transitional design.
- Antique glass-front cabinets nod to the more traditional elements featured throughout the rest of the home.
- A marble island and backsplash provide a classic and sophisticated backdrop for the space, which also incorporates a touch of whimsy.
- A walnut range hood with minimal brass strapping reflects the look of the walnut ‘dresser’ at the end of the island.
- An antique mirrored element behind the cooktop complements the antique mirrored cabinets and ties the whole space together.
- An arched art niche with wallpaper backing was added to the breakfast nook to break up the tall, antique-glass front cabinetry.
- Orb-shaped hardware mimics the lighting over the breakfast table.
- Gold-toned cabinet hardware coordinates with the gold strapping on the hood, golden-finished faucets and ring pulls on the walnut cabinet.
- Hidden behind closed doors is a client-requested coffee station that houses coffee essentials and dishes.
- A walnut ‘dresser’ serves as a prep space at one end of the island.
- The side of the dresser features gold-toned ring pulls and pull-outs that house cutlery, knives and spices, among other items.