When we think about dream projects, we often think of clients that understand the importance of investing in selections that will both make an impact in their space and stand the test of time. That’s what we have here in one of our favorite kitchen designs to date.
Originally, there was a wall separating the kitchen and a small office space, the wall was removed to extend the kitchen and dining space. Because there were existing ceiling beams in the back living room adjacent to the kitchen, we tied the spaces together, and placed beams in the dining area and the kitchen for a cohesive design.
We removed the far wall with the cabinets to create the space we needed.
Designing for a long, narrow space, while tricky, is the kind of challenge we love to face. We decided to use the length to our advantage and create a built-in banquette at one end of the kitchen. It gives a ton of dining space, while also allowing us to give the client the big kitchen space that they needed.
We decided to go with a walnut seat as opposed to painting it to prevent scratching from every day use, and for the ease of sliding in and out from behind the table. You’ll notice a small reeded detail on the sides of the seat, which is mimicked in the island as well. The back of the banquette is a beautiful European leather. For the table, we worked with Huizen's Furniture to create a custom Amish-made dining table to the exact size required.
Given that we had a lot of length to work with after we’d designed the banquette, we really went all out with the island. One end is quartz with waterfall sides, which contains storage on both sides of the island, while the other is a beautiful butcher block top, with seating on one side. We loved being able to incorporate ample work space and storage in this elongated island, with plenty of room to spread out.
Cabinets by Grabill through True Kitchens • Pendant Lights
Lighting was a huge feature in this kitchen. We wanted it to be intentional, but not too overwhelming in the space, and what we found from Visual Comfort was just the right amount of stylish and classic.
We added a custom Roman shade over the sink to provide a bit of softness to the tiled wall and cabinets. The zellige tile has variegated colors to give the backsplash a bit of interest, while still being a classic and inviting look.
The coolest feature in this kitchen is what we’re calling the Coffee Bar. We continued the walnut butcher block from the island to this bank of cabinets. The tile is a stunning mosaic glass by Artistic Tile, and even though it is absolutely eye-catching, the focal point of this space is the framed artwork by James Karsina from LaFontsee Gallery. It reminded the clients of their trips to northern Michigan, and is a beautiful addition to this space.
The Coffee Bar before
We are so pleased with how this project came together, and can’t wait to show you more from this house. Stay tuned for the front room and foyer!
Other links:
Coffee Bar Tile (in Ice White)
Shaw Flooring (in Crema)
Quartz Countertops (in Calacatta Gold Polished)
Appliances (in Matte White)