A kitchen island shaped like a grand piano, builder-basic cabinetry, space-age themed pendant lights, and a tile backsplash made of 12×12 flooring set on the diagonal were key ‘before’ features of this early 2000s townhouse kitchen.

We were tasked with taking this space down to the studs and starting fresh, with the limitation of working within the existing footprint. The clients wanted a space that was airy and contemporary: something simple yet simultaneously special.

At first glance, our design achieves the “simple” our clients desired: crisp white cabinetry, a gracious island, and gray stone countertops. Step closer, and the “special” begins to shine. Finely built flush-inset cabinetry features a custom-designed beveled panel and unique horizontal hardware. Ceilings are painted an elegant shade of blue to complement woven wallpaper in the bar area. The once-dreadful kitchen backsplash is now a playful pattern of opalescent flowers and iridescent leaves. From flooring to window treatments, we were responsible for the total transformation of this space.

The existing kitchen was already well-connected to an open plan dining and seating area. We used this as an opportunity to break the kitchen out of its designated corner, lining an opposite wall with custom cabinetry housing storage for pantry and entertaining. Creative hidden storage is a highlight of this kitchen, from the clever desk nook that conceals a formerly awkward angle in the room, to the built-ins flanking the table, which read like stately armoires when closed, but open to reveal a wine fridge, beverage drawers, and a full bar.

Perhaps the most outstanding element of this design is the exquisite attention to detail. Like each carefully placed petal in the mosaic backsplash, every detail of the project was hand selected. From the gentle curve of the soffit, to the veining of the stone windowsill, such careful consideration was given to every element. We think this care shows; you can feel, when you look at the space, the subtle glow of true quality.