A large, rectangular island is the heart of this open-plan kitchen. One of the island's ends is dedicated to casual meals (seating is a chic, counter-height bench and barstools) and the rest to prep space.

To unify the aesthetic of this sweet breakfast nook with the adjacent open-concept kitchen, designers continued the kitchen's blue accents in the nook's blue curtains and dining chairs.

This kitchen's custom cabinets were designed to hold serving pieces and dishes with equal grace.

This kitchen becomes outdoor entertaining headquarters thanks to a huge window that connects it to an adjacent porch. Now serving cocktails, appetizers, brunch to the crowd is easier than ever.

The window over this kitchen's sink folds back, accordion style, to connect to an adjacent porch. Outdoor parties are a breeze with this access to meals and all their fixings.

Fresh white cabinets and a backsplash with a Moroccan-style pattern set off this kitchen's Wolf range. Over the range, designers use the front of the hood as a blank canvas of sorts to show off two wood serving pieces.

Special details give this pretty white kitchen its own personality. Barstools have subtle stripes and delicate spooled legs. The white backsplash adds a faint glimmer of texture.

A softly curving sectional takes up the majority of this open-concept living room. It's a tasteful way to bring in lots of seating and make the most of pretty backyard views.

Practically every room, at least on this home's lower level, connects to outdoor patios and porches. Big doors fold back to make the transition seamless.

A huge sheltered porch is a wonderful blend of indoor/outdoor living. The kitchen is fully accessible via a large pass-through window (bring on the snacks). Wall-mounted heat lamps beam down warmth, and a lush garden is steps away.

This sitting room's brick wall backdrop gets a coat of fresh white paint, all the better to brighten the space and show off a merry mix of blue accents.