Design Spotlight Archives - Kitchen & Bath Design News http://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/natural-light-infuses-california-kitchen The industry’s leading business, design and product resource for the kitchen and bath trade. Thu, 04 Sep 2025 18:45:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://sola-images.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24120914/cropped-KBDN_favicon_512x512.jpg Design Spotlight Archives - Kitchen & Bath Design News http://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/natural-light-infuses-california-kitchen 32 32 Natural Light Infuses California Kitchen https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/natural-light-infuses-california-kitchen/ Thu, 04 Sep 2025 07:54:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=199546 MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — A modern, traditional vibe was the choice for the kitchen…

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MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — A modern, traditional vibe was the choice for the kitchen in this coastal retreat. Designed by Gina Hacken, owner and principal designer at Gina Lauren Interiors, this sophisticated space was designed to take advantage of the home’s natural light and celebrate the best of California living.

The project encompassed a full design gut renovation, notes Hacken, with the entire existing kitchen rebuilt with custom maple and walnut cabinetry incorporated to deliver warmth and tailored function to the space. The maple cabinetry was painted a warm white, with the walnut stained island complementing the perimeter hue.

“We also furred out the cooktop base cabinets to break up the long horizontal line on that wall,” stresses Hacken. This creates a focal point for the Wolf cooktop area, which includes red knobs, custom hood and a backsplash from the Ann Sacks in a hex shape from its Made collection that adds artisanal charm and texture, she adds. A paneled Sub-Zero refrigerator is also featured along this wall.

“We wanted this kitchen to feel timeless and like you could literally move right in.”

Taking advantage of the abundant lighting throughout was a highlight of the project. Flanking the cooktop area are two bespoke beveled glass windows that match the front door, imagined by Hacken and brought to life by Beveldine, which frame the room in soft light. New, larger windows were also added to the sink area, which fill the space with Southern California sunlight.

The island was also enlarged to accommodate more seating as well as a Sub-Zero beverage refrigerator. Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, Waterstreet custom plated bronze finished hardware, Rohl sink and walnut flooring are used throughout the space. A chandelier from Visual Comfort lights the island.

Walnut in a matching finish to the island is used on the far wall, which houses wall ovens from Wolf, as well as additional storage.


Taj Mahal quartzite countertops add a natural element throughout.

The light fixture from Visual Comfort provides elegant lighting over the island.

Warm tones of cream and walnut meld with natural light to provide a comfortable, easygoing vibe.

An enlarged island delivers additional prep space and seating for the family.

The windows on the sink wall were expanded to let in the California sunshine.

Walnut flooring grounded the space, tying the creamy tones of the perimeter cabinetry with the walnut of the island.

A request for a chef-inspired kitchen led to the incorporation of Wolf ovens in a side wall.

The built-in cabinetry on the oven wall matches the walnut featured in island.

The Wolf cooktop and custom hood, flanked by the bespoke windows, provide a focal point in the kitchen.

Hex-shaped tiles in the backsplash from Ann Sacks enhance the modern traditional aesthetic.

Bespoke beveled glass windows designed by Hacken provide an artisan touch and added light.

Walnut shelving breaks up the creamy upper cabinets and provides display space for treasured items.

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Townhouse Reimagined Through Color https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/townhouse-reimagined-through-color/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 08:57:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=198114 HOLMDEL, NJ — Downsizing can require some painful choices when it comes to selection…

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HOLMDEL, NJ — Downsizing can require some painful choices when it comes to selection of materials and comfort. But sacrifices were not on the table for James Yarosh’s client, who had moved into this Tinton Falls, NJ townhouse in a downsizing effort and didn’t want to give up on her previous home’s cooking and entertaining space. 

Yarosh, of James Yarosh Associates in Holmdel, NJ, had previously spearheaded the renovation of the rest of the 2,000-sq.-ft. home. The kitchen, which was getting a refresh that would deliver an impactful design, was part of an open floor plan that shared the living room and dining area.

The client’s must-have request was to “keep the kitchen happy,” so Yarosh drenched the space in romantic shades of green featuring a masterful understanding of highlights and lowlights. To keep within the budget, the original cabinets remained, but its white tone was transformed through the use of Benjamin Moore’s Scenic Drive, a gentle mint green paint. Trim was added to the top of the existing wall cabinetry to create a full-height upper cabinet appearance.

Reeded glass in the upper cabinets on both sides of the kitchen added interest and kept the space from feeling too heavy. A cluster of ribbed cylinder Currey & Company pendants over the island mimicked the linear design. Bronze hardware from Rocky Mountain Hardware coordinated with the lighting finish and tied the kitchen to the rest of the home.

A home cooking enthusiast who likes to entertain, the client requested upscale appliances, which was fulfilled with the incorporation of a Blue Star range and refrigerator in Agate Grey, with custom knobs that tie in with the overall color palette. The kitchen surround and backsplash feature a bookmatched Fusion Crystal quartzite, a dramatic stone that combines fluid swaths of blue, green and gray, interspersed with trailing veins of white.

The island features a deep hunter green Vermont Verde slab that provide a bold accent. While the prep side features a sink and brass-toned faucet, the dining side includes Chippendale bamboo counter stools from Artistic Frame that tie in to the biophilic-themed Morris & Co. Emery’s Wllow and DeGournay wallpaper that surrounds the kitchen.

Across from the main kitchen area, a beverage bar and pantry area are finished in a slightly darker green tone – as is the island – with reeded glass insets on the upper bar doors. Cristallo Maestro stone counters provide a translucent green crystalline appearance at the bar, adding subtle drama and depth to the entertaining space, “allowing the surround of wallpaper to become the smoky eye outlining the room,” notes Yarosh.


Reeded glass is used in upper cabinets above the range hood and across in the entertaining area.

Bamboo counter stools connect to the biophilic-themed wallpaper for a vibrant yet whimsical element.

Reused cabinets are painted a soft mint green to deliver a romantic vibe

Brass hardware throughout the space coordinates with the fittings throughout.

The island features a deep hunter green Vermont Verde slab that correlates with the green tones in the quartzite backsplash.

The glass-front bar area and secluded pantry are finished in a darker green to set them apart from the main kitchen.

A translucent green crystalline countertop adds subtle drama and depth to the entertaining space.

Brass-toned knobs and appliance hardware are specified, enhancing the room’s distinctive appeal.

A Blue Star range and refrigerator in custom Agate Grey play off nicely with the mint green cabinets and the tones in the backsplash.

Bold colors and patterns were the order for this kitchen, which extends into the living area of the home.

The pendant lights, gathered in a cluster over the island, feature a linear design that works well with the reeded glass cabinets.

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Kitchen Transforms into Entertainer’s Dream https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/kitchen-transforms-into-entertainers-dream/ Tue, 24 Jun 2025 06:04:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=195986 BOSTON, MA — The empty nesters who own this home in Williamsport, PA wanted…

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BOSTON, MA — The empty nesters who own this home in Williamsport, PA wanted an update to their 1990s kitchen, a space that was modern and welcoming where they could entertain comfortably. For Trevor Fulmer, principal, Trevor Fulmer Design in Boston, MA, the task at hand was transforming this segmented, dark and disjointed space into an open concept design that offered a more efficient layout and better flow.

The 435-sq.-ft. kitchen was taken down to the studs and subfloor to make way for a complete transformation. Using the home’s location – the mountains of central Pennsylvania – as a guide, Fulmer used a modern interpretation of earth tones, paired with elevated finishes, to deliver a kitchen that is warm, modern and welcoming.

The new floor plan provides enough area for two large islands, ideal for hosting large gatherings of family and friends. The dual islands offer more counter space for food preparation and serving, and promote better movement in the room when cooking and entertaining.

“Clean-lined white cabinetry along the perimeter keeps the palette airy and restrained, while dark maple wood islands add contrast and visual weight,” notes Fulmer. He included moody Blue Explosion gray-and-blue quartzite countertops with symmetrical waterfall edges on the islands, which “anchored the islands as sculptural centerpieces. Their striking movement and generous scale add both drama and dimension,” he offers.

The clients requested two sinks, one for food prep and another for entertaining. One was placed below the window along the perimeter, while the other was included in an island. Touch-free faucets add to the room’s overall functionality.

“A key design challenge was fitting both a 36″ sink and a dishwasher into a single island,” Fulmer explains. “Since the dimensions wouldn’t allow for it, we opted to separate them between two islands. Given their close proximity, we agreed this solution maintained both functionality and flow.”

At the husband’s request, copper finishes were introduced throughout the space. “Above the range, a custom copper range hood with chrome strapping sets the tone, echoed by coordinating copper-and-chrome drawer pulls,” he explains. “The oversized hood establishes visual hierarchy between the two islands.”

The range area is finished with steel blue-gray field tiles, laid in a herringbone pattern. “This introduced a reflective surface that subtly shifted with the light,” Fulmer offers.

Creative, conversation-starting lighting was critical to the design of the kitchen and surrounding spaces, and all are voice activated. Not only do the light fixtures provide ample illumination needed for cooking and prepping, but when dimmed they create a romantic, mood-setting ambiance. In fact, the multi-point pendant over the dining table, reminiscent of suspended water droplets, became a central focal point.

That dining area includes a custom banquette backed against one island. A live-edge walnut table sourced from a local vendor sits atop a cowhide run, paired with hammered iron chairs.






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Historic Home Blends Old and New Style https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/historic-home-blends-old-and-new-style/ https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/historic-home-blends-old-and-new-style/#respond Thu, 08 May 2025 08:37:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=194456 SHELBY, NC — Many designers are tasked with updating older houses and melding a…

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SHELBY, NC — Many designers are tasked with updating older houses and melding a home’s original character with modern amenities. This particular kitchen remodel, designed by Taylor Walker of Greenbrook Design in Shelby, NC, took that concept up a notch. The home – Seven Gables – has since been listed in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion C for architecture as an intact and locally significant Tudor Revival-style residence in Shelby.

The project involved updating the home, which was built in 1929, while maintaining its historic charm, combining practicality, classic style and a sense of history. “Creating a modern Tudor Revival style was challenging,” notes Walker, “as it required careful work to keep the home’s original feel while adding stylish and useful updates for today’s living. Creative design and custom cabinetry brought everything together, staying true to the home’s timeless style while making it more functional for today’s lifestyle.”

Highlights of the project included designing a custom kitchen and transforming the former butler’s pantry into a chic bar area. A pantry was also created to store dishes, serving pieces and other amenities.

“With tailored designs and exquisite finishes, the custom cabinetry from Walker Woodworking stands as a centerpiece, honoring past while embracing modern elegance,” stresses Walker. The maple inset cabinetry features Sherwin-Williams Pure White paint on the perimeter, with refrigerator panels and coffee bar distinguished in Benjamin Moore’s Steel Wool.

Also featured in the main kitchen is a La Cornue 43″ black range with gold trim, a custom hood with satin gold banding from Stoll Industries, Cristallo Lumix Quartzite countertops, interior cabinet fittings from Rev-A-Shelf, Sub-Zero refrigerator and freezer, Cove dishwasher and Wolf ovens.

A new bar area was also created as part of the kitchen, providing a spacious area to entertain guests. Besides hosting events, the bar is a cozy spot for family gatherings and a nice area for displaying food, serving as either a dessert station or a full bar, notes Walker. 

“The bar was designed to be a flexible space that blends functionality, elegance and everyday use,” she adds. 

Custom cabinets that maximize storage coordinate with the main kitchen’s cabinets, and provide a convenient area to house crystal glasses, liquor and other necessities for events. Paneled Sub-Zero appliances were incorporated into the space, keeping the area clean and streamlined. The LED-backlit Pink Quartz and floating shelves are key features of the design and provide a blend of elegance and modern style, offers Walker, as does the Monsita gold bar 15″ sink and brass foot rail.



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Family Needs Prompt Whole-Home Remodel https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/family-needs-prompt-whole-home-remodel/ Tue, 08 Apr 2025 06:50:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=193771 DALLAS, TX — Balancing style with practicality was the assignment for the update of…

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DALLAS, TX — Balancing style with practicality was the assignment for the update of an original 1970s home, and Kitchen Design Concepts of Dallas, TX was up for the challenge. Each room of the home was on the renovation list, with a desire for a contemporary update that respected the original style. 

“The overall project was a complete whole-home remodel, and our goal was to bring the house back to life while maintaining its charm,” explains Katie Bacon, CKBR, residential designer with Kitchen Design Concepts. “We immediately recognized that the house had great bones and deserved a transformation that would honor its structure while updating it for modern living.”

“We made sure the layout allowed for easy access to everything, minimizing unnecessary steps, especially in the large kitchen,” explains Bacon.

“In terms of design, we aimed to blend two of the homeowners’ favorite styles: Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern,” she remarks. “We incorporated elements from both styles throughout the house, with Art Deco influences seen in the light fixtures and the use of jewel tones throughout the interiors.

“The kitchen was designed with thoughtful functionality in mind,” Bacon continues. Smart storage was a important priority for the homeowner, and she wanted every item to have a designated spot.

The designer notes that the kitchen island is a standout feature, with a Bison stain on walnut that grounds the large piece, coordinating with the floor color. The ‘D’ curve shape of the eating area mirrors the arches on the end panels. A workstation sink replaced the second sink the owners had previously and provides an efficient, multi-functional space for meal prep and cooking.

To tie the various spaces together, materials and finishes that connected visually across the home were chosen, according to Bacon. “The Serenity Blue quartzite, with its rich color variations, anchors the design and can be seen in both the backsplash tile (in a Sodalite colorway) and the Pewter Green accents around the range and on the arched end panels of the island,” she states. “We also played with a mix of metals, combining brushed gold and polished nickel for the cabinet hardware and black nickel for the faucets.”

Modern kitchen with large island, pendant lights, and geometric tiled backsplash.
Modern kitchen with white cabinetry, marble countertops, and a large island with double sink.



Open kitchen cabinet with pull-out shelves holding cutting boards, bowls, plates, and tea boxes.
Modern kitchen with marble countertop, stainless steel sink, and dark wooden cabinets.



Small dining area with round table, upholstered chairs, and a modern chandelier.

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Transitional Kitchen Nods to Traditional Style https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/transitional-kitchen-nods-to-traditional-style/ Fri, 31 Jan 2025 09:12:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=192614 ATLANTA — An awkward, inefficient kitchen with odd angles was the original canvas for…

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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.

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Custom Blue Hue Delivers Design Impact https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/custom-blue-hue-delivers-design-impact/ Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=191506 MANHASSET, NY — When it comes to designing interior spaces, the norm is often…

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MANHASSET, NY — When it comes to designing interior spaces, the norm is often for the overall aesthetic to blend with the home’s architectural style. It becomes an added challenge for the designer when the bones of the house lend themselves to one look and the homeowners express an interest in something entirely different.

For John Starck, president and CEO of Showcase Kitchens in Manhasset, NY, that challenge was evident when working with clients who leaned into a more modern look for their classic Tudor home on Long Island. While the designer focused on meeting the homeowners’ desire for a clean and minimalist design for their kitchen, he also looked for ways to nod to the home’s architectural roots through the use of traditional touches. 

Starck worked with the homeowners to create just the right color palette for the space. “We discussed colors at length, and this is where her taste brought her,” he comments. “She wanted to add some flash, some color, and we came across this powder blue,” a custom Sherwin-Williams paint that was achieved by mixing several colors together.

Starck notes that the client was considering an all blue kitchen at first, but he thought it would be too much. Instead, he opted to pair it with a white that is “sublime.”But, “if not for the blue, you probably wouldn’t notice this kitchen,” he adds.

The existing footprint provided a workable space, allowing the designer to do what he wanted. He relays that the “before” kitchen was ugly, with multiple soffits and a peninsula with a seating area rather than an island. 

To open up the design and make it more functional, a closet was removed to make space for the refrigerator and tall wall with built-in appliances from Thermador. All of the soffits were removed as well, allowing the cabinets to go to the ceiling.

A desk was also eliminated since the new island serves as a place to sit and work. And even though there is a formal dining room, the island was designed to act as a spot for the homeowners to entertain family and guests.

“This island is really more of an entertaining space, since it’s not a working island,” notes Starck. “I am big on making the island a working space, but the client didn’t want to do prep there, so that is happening by the sink wall.”

“The biggest statement this kitchen makes is the blue – it’s the tie in to everything.

  • A custom powder blue paint, as well as a ‘sublime’ white, are featured on the custom Italian cabinets with clever interior storage
  • Mont Blanc polished quartzite countertops showcase a hint of blue in the veining
  • Oversized Chapman and Myers light fixtures from Visual Comfort provide a classic, industrial touch, tempering the overall modern feel of the space
  • The flooring, from Versace Ceramics’ Eterno collection in ICE, is an oversized wide, wood-look ceramic tile
  • A taller, multi-temperature wine refrigerator that can house champagne met the clients’ request for a wine unit
  • The clients are big coffee drinkers, so they opted for a built-in coffee appliance instead of a second wall oven
  • The sink area below the window is the true working prep space in the kitchen, per the clients’ wishes
  • The island, which incorporates a microwave, is designed for entertaining rather than prep
  • Open shelving that matches the powder-blue cabinets provides additional storage
  • The clients’ collection of cutting boards, in different shades of blue, is displayed here, acting as the driver for the room’s overall design
  • A sleek cooktop and hood from Thermador are surrounded by ample space for prep
  • The backsplash – a mosaic from Pental Surfaces – is comprised of Thassos and Carrara marbles with a hint of blue and runs from countertop to ceiling throughout

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Modern Meets Traditional in Updated Kitchen https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/modern-meets-traditional-in-updated-kitchen/ Thu, 03 Oct 2024 17:34:20 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=190560 BEDFORD HEIGHTS, OH — Most kitchen redesigns are prompted by a need for more…

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BEDFORD HEIGHTS, OH — Most kitchen redesigns are prompted by a need for more storage and function, and such was the case for this kitchen remodel in Berea, OH. The kitchen was part of a complete overhaul of the home’s main level, which was divided into smaller, separate rooms that made it difficult for the clients to entertain and cook as a family.

Jessica Hovanec, interior design specialist with Keselman Construction Group in Bedford Heights, OH, was tasked with providing a kitchen that could support the growing family and offer a range of storage solutions that could aid in achieving a clutter-free home. The desire for a timeless yet current design was also key to the overall space, with the clients requesting a room that was inviting and warm.

Hunter green cabinetry from Fabuwood that evoked a sense of tradition and elegance was chose to anchor the space, accented with gold hardware from Miseno for a touch of modern luxury. The combination proved to be both versatile and enduring, notes the designer. 

Subtle yet elegant marbleized quartz surfacing from Vadara Quartz Surfaces is used not only for the countertops but as a full-height backsplash for a sleek modern feel. The engineered surface was chosen for its durability and ease of maintenance.

With regard to storage, pantry space and appliance garages help keep items tucked away until they are needed, providing a more streamlined look. Open shelving along the wall offers easy access to everyday items. A bar area was also requested since the space blended into a seating area. 

Hovanec encouraged cabinets with glass and floating shelves “because, with the amount of cabinetry in the room, it was very easy for the space to feel heavy and overpowering,” she explains. “The glass allows light to pass through, which reduces visual bulk. The shelves help break up the cabinetry and are the perfect place to add accent pieces or artwork to liven up the space.”

“The clients desired a timeless but current design that was inviting and warm.”

  • The hunter green cabinet finish delivers a traditional yet modern vibe.
  • Gold hardware maintains the warmth of the room and adds a luxurious touch.
  • An expansive island provides ample seating for the growing family, as well as much-needed storage.
  • The quartz countertops sport a polished finish, which provides a bit of shine against the matte cabinets.
  • Storage was a major request, and the refrigerator wall delivered floor-to-ceiling options.
  • The tones in the vinyl plank flooring tied the spaces together.
  • Vadara quartz surfacing was used not only for the countertops but for the backsplash wall as well.
  • A sink and faucet from Kraus sit below windows and next to the dishwasher for a stylish clean-up space.
  • Open shelves along the wall provide access to everyday items and display space for decorative elements.
  • Glass-front cabinets keep the space from appearing too cabinet heavy.
  • Since the space opened to a seating area, a bar area was incorporated into the room.
  • Open shelving complements the cabinetry and quartz on the walls.

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Heritage and Love of Nature Inspire Design https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/heritage-and-love-of-nature-inspire-design/ https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/heritage-and-love-of-nature-inspire-design/#respond Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:40:00 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=189679 SOUTHLAKE, TX — While pristine white cabinets are the foundation of this kitchen remodel…

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SOUTHLAKE, TX — While pristine white cabinets are the foundation of this kitchen remodel in a home just outside of Dallas, the completed design is anything but plain. Dallas-based Kitchen Design Concepts was tasked with highlighting the client’s Vietnamese heritage and love of natural materials, while also incorporating clever storage and cutting-edge technology. 

The project required that we find a balance between an eclectic aesthetic while incorporating personal touches for the client,” notes Katie Bacon, residential designer for Kitchen Design Concepts. “The eclectic style was achieved through the incorporation of a blue range with copper hardware, a two-toned faucet and copper light fixtures.”

To accommodate the family of four and make the original angular space more functional, the design team opened up a wall and made plumbing adjustments.

Bacon reports that the project “incorporated blue tones to tie the kitchen spaces together.”

Hand-painted LiLi Tile from Vietnam adorns the walls, and the client’s love for nature prompted the choice of natural quartzite with shades of blue over quartz for the countertops. When some of the tiles arrived damaged, the design team color-matched and painted around the windows to ensure a cohesive finish.

The large windows situated over the range posed their own challenge, as the clients desired the natural light they provided but also wanted privacy. 

“Our design team suggested the inclusion of Smart Film, which allows homeowners to switch between clear and satin finishes with a simple button click or smartphone command,” offers Bacon.

Playing on the exotic nature of the wall tile, arabesque- shaped tile is featured on the floor. The ceramic tile resembles concrete, and delivers a deep, rich tone that adds a rustic yet elegant feel, notes Bacon.

The family, which includes two young girls, requested appliances that fit their lifestyle. A microwave without a handle was selected to prevent wear and tear from frequent use by the children. The AGA 48″ induction range in blue with copper hardware integrates within the chosen color scheme. The refrigerator is hidden within a built-in cabinet, maintaining the aesthetic of the space.

The island includes a workstation sink, paired with a two-toned ombre faucet. “The Galley workstation was suggested given that the homeowners prepare many homemade snacks and meals for their girls,” states Bacon. “They saw the benefit of utilizing the workstation model to make an extension of the countertop.”

To maximize storage, the design team added angled roll-out trays in the cabinets, ensuring every inch is used efficiently. Woven baskets add a desired function to provide easy access to fruits and vegetables as well as other items.


  • Copper light fixtures provide needed task lighting over the island as well as sparkle and color coordination
  • The LiLi Tile from Vietnam steals the show in this kitchen design, nodding to the client’s Vietnamese heritage
  • White cabinets provide a neutral backdrop, allowing the colors and designs in the space to shine through
  • Seating at the island provides added function for this family of four

It was important to incorporate the client’s Vietnamese heritage and source materials that aligned with the homeowner’s love for nature and natural elements.

  • The microwave is situated at a height that works for the children, and also has no handle to prevent wear and tear
  • Clever basket storage provides easy access to fruit and other items
  • The dark arabesque floor tile continues the eclectic theme
  • The quartzite countertop showcases swirls of blue and adds a natural element
  • The Galley workstation sink and ombre faucet aid in meal and snack prep
  • When tiles arrived broken, the design team pivoted and painted the window surround for a custom look
  • The window delivers copious amounts of natural light but can be obscured for privacy due to the inclusion of Smart Film
  • Clever storage is featured throughout the kitchen, making use of every inch of space
  • The blue AGA range with copper knobs ties into the overall color scheme

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Pacific Northwest Kitchen Reflects Natural Scape https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/pacific-northwest-kitchen-reflects-natural-scape/ https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/pacific-northwest-kitchen-reflects-natural-scape/#respond Tue, 06 Aug 2024 17:39:25 +0000 https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/?p=189159 SEATTLE, WA — The kitchen and breakfast nook of this Pacific Northwest home offered…

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SEATTLE, WA — The kitchen and breakfast nook of this Pacific Northwest home offered panoramic views of Puget Sound, but the dark and dated area was not living up to its full potential. The homeowners tasked Emily Ruff, owner and principal designer of Seattle-based Cohesively Curated, with opening up the space and adding splashes of color that reflected their personalities.

To meet the clients’ desire for a space where they could gather with family and friends, the designer removed a wall to combine the kitchen and dining room. “The biggest challenge was figuring out a way to create an open, integrated space out of a formerly ‘cut up’ floor plan,” Ruff reports. She got creative with storage and was able to build five separate areas of cabinetry to allow for maximum storage, functionality and flow. 

“The clients really wanted some bold color and tile, combined with warmer wood tones,” Ruff notes. Since the space overlooks the water, she focused on teal blues to complement the surroundings. 

Ruff balanced the cool and warm tones between the soft cabinet color and teal blue backsplash on the wall with honey wood tones on the island and dining bench, as well as unlacquered brass plumbing and hardware that will patina over time. On the perimeter cabinets, she used a painted finish in Benjamin Moore’s Sea Glass, with a custom stain on alder for the island. Panel-ready appliances blend with the cabinetry in the main kitchen and the bar area. White quartz countertops throughout provide durability and ease of maintenance. 

The island includes an apron-front sink and dishwasher, directly opposite the Ilve induction range that showcases a French range look. On the opposite side of the island, requested seating allows for direct interaction with anyone sitting in the dining nook. Pendant lights with a vintage feel tie into the design and the age of the home.

The far wall makes the most dramatic statement in the room, with a bold color and pattern featured on the entire expanse. The floor-to-ceiling zellige tile is laid in a herringbone pattern, “creating a beautiful focal point,” says Ruff.


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