A TALE of Two WHITE KITCHENS

When working with a longtime client on her kitchen renovation, her words of the day were “I want it to be white!!” She had been in her home for over 20 years and everything was dark and cozy. Mind you, it was what she wanted at the time, but the new kitchen included an updated, brighter design with white cabinetry, matte gold hardware for a jewelry-like sparkle, white marble-look countertops, and accent pendants.

We also included an element that was desperately needed and was one of the biggest challenges to do – replacing the over-the-range recirculating microwave with an exhaust that vented to the outside! A bit of surgery on the ceiling was required to run the ductwork, and a new location for the microwave allowed for a beautiful statement hood. With improved function and a beautiful new aesthetic, her white kitchen was complete!

Which brings me to my next “white” kitchen…

This project took a different path. Although this client wanted white cabinetry as well, she preferred the contrast of a dark stone countertop with black hardware, black stainless appliances, and copper accents. She also wanted to incorporate saturated paint color on the walls. In this case, we chose sunset hues, because nature and beauty have left such an impression on this family. It is the sunsets that they love. So we brought that warmth inside to enjoy!

For this family, their must-have’s were led by their joy of entertaining. With a blended family, there are many near and dear that come through this house to celebrate, spend time, and visit. So the central part of their main floor had to really be conducive for entertaining comfortably, and functionally. There was one other unique request for this kitchen reno. They wanted a large screen to watch their favorite shows and games while cooking and hanging out but did not want the aesthetic of a large television. The perfect solution – the “Frame” TV by Samsung which becomes a piece of art when it’s not a tv. And, their screensaver fits their new room perfectly!

These are really beautiful examples of how “white” kitchens can play out. They can be light and bright with crispness on every plain, but also incorporate contrast and rich color. Whichever you prefer, always keep in mind that this is a space for you and your family to feel fulfilled, and inspired, with articulated function that makes sense for how you live your life.