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.