KITCHEN BRIGHTS
COOKING ISLAND, BANQUETTE AND WALL OF COUNTERSPACE WITH SINK, ETC MAKE UP THIS FUN ROOM. Subtle glass subway tiles comprise a backsplash that does not distract, while cafe curtains tie this end of the kitchen to the banquette. The largest splash of color is concentrated on the island, while the surrounding white finishes lend a clean, uncluttered look. This balancing act was key, as the designer says she maxed out the layout, squeezing in the island and banquette. Tip: Custom touches can really dress up ready-made cabinets. Wrapping the island (made from Ikea cabinets) and range area in red gave them a special touch and turned them into focal points.
I LIKE THE STOVE FLANKED BY DRAWERS WITH CHOPPING BLOCK COUNTER. ALL OTHER CUPBOARDS ARE WHITE, WHILE THIS ONE IS BRIGHT RED - GOES WITH THE BANQUETTE. “This couple loves to cook,” Huntley says. “We’re talking three meals a day and fancy dinners.” An island was a must-have. While the sink stayed in the same place, the rest of the existing U-shaped layout was shaken up, allowing Huntley to squeeze in an island, a banquette and a desk. Storage space in the island and around the refrigerator made it possible to eliminate cabinets and counters from the far wall
A new built-in banquette with new windows gives the family a bright spot in which to gather for meals, though Huntley admits it’s a little on the tight side for all six of them. “Sometimes they all eat together; some nights [the parents] serve the kids dinner while they are still in the kitchen, and then enjoy a meal just the two of them later,” she says. Huntley chose a happy and bright pattern for the banquette in an indoor-outdoor fabric for durability. Banquette fabric: Richloom Fabrics; pendant lights: The District gooseneck light, Barn Light
I LOVE THE OPENNESS TO THE PATIO FROM THE KITCHEN. New French doors lead to an outdoor dining table, creating a strong connection to the yard.
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