This beautiful kitchen is newly constructed in a waterfront home.
The client desired a casual, appointed kitchen that was conducive for entertaining, yet open to the rest of the home. We began working with the client on the entire house during the planning phase. As a result, incorporating all the design ideas, layout, molding details, and special features into the final blueprints became much easier. What a huge benefit it was to have the kitchen designer involved right from the beginning! We designed the plans and cabinetry, specified all appliances, materials, lighting, plumbing fixtures, counter tops, and project managed to completion.
The design strategy was built around two key concepts:
1. A focal point on the back wall still allowed for natural light to enter into the space. This created a “dividing wall” of cabinetry that could house additional appliances and serve as an entertaining bar. Hutch storage was added on the dining side. This “wall” kept the kitchen in the “kitchen” area, but is still great for visual and practical flow of activities. The hood became a central architectural feature while serving as functional ventilation. The dividing cabinetry became an entertainment zone while also utilizing overflow baking by housing a second oven.
2. It was also important to have casual bar seating and an area to relax. Conversing with the chef while in these areas was a must. Thus, we designed a wall of windows and a “keeping room” with club chairs and a fireplace. This replaced a typical breakfast space. Opening up this area to the outside views really enhanced the entire living area. This additional conversational seating created a more intimate area than the primary living room. We placed the coffee bar with a built in pot filler near the perimeter of the kitchen so that it could service the keeping room area as well as the kitchen.
Cool and Casual Features
The most stunning special features include the coffee center with hidden pot filler (as mentioned), the stunning cold rolled steel hood, and the carefully selected Luna Bella jelly fish pendants!
We encountered a few challenges trying to work in the enormous amount of appliances the client desired and still have room for the kitchen “stuff!” We also had to deal with the exterior wall becoming shorter due to construction issues, and this made our very cool coffee center a wee bit shorter than originally planned! However, with the way this kitchen turned out, and as happy as the owners are, you’d never know it—it perfectly serves their needs as a functional and beautiful gathering area in their new home.
If you like this coastal kitchen, you may also be interested in this post with a before and after of a coastal bath makeover!
