This client came to us with a very small, outdated kitchen, and a little used outdoor patio right beside it. The ceiling in the main living area had angles going every which way, and the ceiling in the kitchen was unusually low. So we ditched it all, and literally raised the roof, creating a single plane that angled down towards the back of the newly expanded kitchen that now encompasses the patio area. This allowed a blank slate to design a kitchen that truly fit the client’s lifestyle.
They expressed the need for a dining table “once in a while,” but didn’t really want to have a permanent space dedicated to one. So our design began with the island, where we’ve built in a custom rolling dining table. Most of the time, the table rolls right under the island, where about one foot of it projects out to become the bar area. When fully pulled out, the eight foot long table can comfortably seat 10 people for a family get-together.
Storage and function were key in the kitchen design. Custom drawers and pullouts create tailor-made storage for everything from spices to dishes. Double dishwasher drawers allow the couple to wash just a few dishes at a time, or to fully load both after a holiday meal. A pull-out broom closet allows all of their cleaning supplies to be easily accessible and organized. Baking is a big thing in this household, so we used the “work zone” technique when designing their kitchen. We included a “mixer lift-kit” that raises their stand mixer from inside the island to the countertop, all with the touch of a finger. Storage for all the baking tools and a prep sink are all nearby, creating a baking zone where everything they’d need is within arm’s reach.
We of course can’t forget about the custom pet food station built into the island for cuddly Star the cat. It keeps the bowls up off the floor, eliminating the inevitable kick of the water bowl when grabbing a midnight snack.
