When Ida McConnell of Cuvée Kitchen Designs first sat down with her client, she wanted to deliver on all that they wanted.
“They needed a much larger kitchen to cook and entertain in, the existing kitchen was very small, which made it difficult,” McConnell said.
They were also looking for a cohesive and natural flow into an open family room area that ultimately provided a bright, elegant space, yet was still comfortable and inviting.
Finding Function
To make the new space work, McConnell removed the wall between the kitchen and the seldom-used dining room, expanding the kitchen and creating a large, open space. The formal dining room furniture was then moved to the large living room to create one formal combined space.
To allow more natural light in, the windows throughout the space changed. The window above the sink was enlarged, and the dining windows were repositioned to flank the 48” range. All of the windows were then enlarged by lowering the windowsills to countertop height.
The large kitchen island was installed to allow for a wonderful seating and prep space, and to house the sink and wine refrigeration. To make the space fit the family’s needs, a coffee station and desk area were incorporated as well.
Installing the Best Appliances
When it came to the appliances, McConnell and her client turned to Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances:
The matching wood panels on the refrigerator allowed it to be customized into the design and flow flawlessly with the cabinetry. Ity also provided the client with much needed additional refrigeration space when entertaining.
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WINE COOLER: 15” Sub-Zero Wine Unit — 315WSTHRH
This unit was incorporated into the island, without using much space. A matching wood panel allowed the unit to be seamlessly integrated into the island.
Infusing the Client’s Aesthetic
While aesthetics were important, the function of the kitchen was critical, so the two elements had to form a happy marriage. The design team added a large single bowl main sink and a large prep sink to the island, which allowed for two convenient working stations. To the right of the sink, a furniture piece was created that doubles as cabinets. The wall cabinets were end capped with decorative columns, and matching custom corbels extend down to the countertop. Custom leaded glass inserts and full height backsplash make for an additional focal point on the sink wall.
The large traditional custom mantel hood is key for venting, but also serves as a decorative focal point on the range wall. The design included matching custom corbels and a plate ledge for displaying china. The matching leading glass cabinetry near the range has inside lighting that completes the full symmetric look of the entire whole. Pullout columns added to the functionality and storage capacity at the range and allowed for easy accessibility of spices, oils, and vinegars.
The family’s ultimate goal was to create a relaxed atmosphere to come to and function in, all within an enticingly beautiful environment in which to entertain. That goal was far surpassed, beautifully using the client’s love for white and blue throughout the space.