Inspiring Kitchen Remodels

The owner of this home wanted a cutting-edge kitchen, and the two single ovens anchor the sleek design that emerged. Mother-of-pearl granite countertops and frosted-glass tiles provide a bright balance for the darker cabinets. A socially accommodating space was created by turning the island in the opposite direction and diverting the table space away from the window to the back of the island.

The homeowner's two children are competent assistants in the kitchen, but this was a kitchen built for one. And there was little connection to the rest of the home, inadequate counter space and no storage. After opening a hallway, moving the powder room, adding a large pantry and creating a built-in seating area for the table, the result is a well-lighted open space. A convenient traffic flow through the L-shaped layout allows access to the back deck and dining room.

A red quartz countertop was at the core of this retired couple's wishes for their city condominium. Highlighting their art collection was achieved with extensive lighting on independent controls. Appliances behind panels or an aluminum finish were the solution to the homeowners' desire to avoid stainless steel. Calcutta gold marble for the floor and horizontal glass tile on the backsplash in a mix of matte and gloss finish were chosen to coordinate with the acrylic-finished European cabinets.

At 8 1/2 feet in width, this kitchen stands small but mighty in its high functionality. Equipment selection and placement were the key to this success of this gallery kitchen's design. An integrated refrigerator and dishwasher were fitted behind cabinetry, and an on-wall storage system maintains a clean line to the kitchen. The room's taller components are clustered at the same end of the room as the pantry to allow for more counter area near the entry and window. Truffle-brown pine cabinetry presents a pleasing contrast to white Carrara marble countertops and backsplash. A wall to display the homeowner's photography and handle-less cabinets finish the look.