A Sensual Design for the Serious Cook

Schwartz created well-defined work areas, warmth and beauty by employing three different counter materials in different areas: two granites and a maple butcher block. "The granite counter on the cook center is pulled forward a bit, which helps delineate the space," he says. "Since the baking center is a focal point at one of the entries to the room, I used maple butcher block to make it softer, along with the maple cabinetry. As you're walking in you're not being hit with hard surfaces."

Wood counters: "I love wood tops in kitchen design and I love them even more when they've been used for a while and have nicks," says Schwartz. "One client of mine had a 90-year-old chopping block that came with her house and was showing its character, and I made that the focal point of her kitchen island. Aging wood shows that a place has been lived in, which is wonderful — the wear and tear adds character. The only time I wouldn't recommend using wood tops is if someone said they always wanted their kitchen to look pristine."