A Sensual Design for the Serious Cook

Michael Schwartz knows all about the trend of homeowners demanding professional quality appliances and kitchen design — he and his wife are enthusiastic participants. "I'm a serious cook myself, so when I design a cooking space, I'm thinking, 'What would I like? What would help me?' and it really helps me with ideas for my clients."

Keeping the cook's needs in mind led Schwartz to design this space with lavish storage, warm and attractive counters and distinct, separate areas so more than one cook can work at a time. "The clients, who were both avid cooks and love to entertain, gave me a lot of creative license," he says.

Schwartz, who works for Grayslake, Ill.-based 2S Designs, shares these strategies from his standout design:

The biggest design challenge: "This was a very long space and the homeowners cook — they really use this kitchen! It had to be beautiful and functional."