Perhaps the most important room in our renovation is the kitchen. The space we have to work with is large with tall, bright windows and gorgeous views of the lagoon. It’s the center of the house; my stage – where we can be completely interactive with our guests. The details will make it dramatic yet comfortable and sophisticated. Coastal chic, my designer says.
Functionality was primary in the layout. I eliminated the “breakfast” nook which we never found to be useful in any of our houses. Instead we are creating both a working island and seating peninsula for guests to be part of the action but removed enough to be relaxed. A large round table in the vaulted dining space, integrated with the kitchen, will let me serve casual leisurely breakfasts to elegant dinners. There is a fire place and beautiful views in every direction. It’s a room one will love to have any meal, any occasion and I’ll have the ability to seat 4 – 14.
I splurged on state of the art appliances, some hidden entirely from view encased in cabinetry. I am not a fan of the “stainless steel craze”. I’ve had it in two previous homes and find it cold and messy. I moved the large farm sink to an expansive window with a great view. And away from the action. Another lesson learned from previous kitchens. I don’t think sinks are an accessory and consequently should not be on the center stage. They need be highly functional and located in practical space.
We are creating a beverage bar. In this space there will be the refrigeration of anything liquid from water, soda, coffee creamer, beer, juice or wine. The coffee maker, the wine and liquor storage. There will be a cool curved bar sink. And freezer drawers with plenty of ice. All the glasses, mugs and accessories are on this wall. It’s within the kitchen but removed enough to never be in the cook’s way. Help yourself to whatever you want, whenever you want. I learned in previous houses that “detached” wetbars don’t function well for my type of entertaining. And while there are plenty cabinets the new walk-in pantry behind a cool sliding barn door is steps away and stocked with whatever you are searching for and organizes my serving pieces and seasonal items.
Light, bright, highly functional, state-of-the-art, cozy, comfortable and charming. It’s everything we could think of, and more. Our kitchen and bath designer, Cristina, is a genius with space and cabinetry. The base exterior cabinets will be white while the island is a taupy gray. The countertops – natural stone with soft movement in watery blues, grays and greens. With the big stuff decided I can focus on details like the backsplash, hardware and lighting. I’m going sleek and shiny; polished nickel and honed marble. High style and great details make the difference. I can hardly wait for it to be finished!
We closed off the old entrance and created a new one to the left that allows better flow.
Cristina, my designer, consults with Greg, our contractor.
The vaulted ceiling in the new dining area with views of the lagoon.