Ode to Joy

Functional Interior Design

Ode to Joy

This grand old dame was ready to turn into a regal princess. In the not so distant past, this kitchen was renovated to quality standards (no worries as it repurposed and still being utilized), but it sorely lacked storage, function and adequate countertop work area. This 1920’s character manor house deserved a wow kitchen that would be a nod to the original but have new world appeal, a touch of eccentricity and some European flair.

Relocating the range and fridge quickly created the required countertop space for an owner who enjoyed entertaining and gourmet cooking. What really needed attention was organization and storage.
Adding a utensil/knife block pullout, spice drawers, an oil bottle pullout provided efficiency – a place for everything was the first step. Incorporating a double drawer dishwasher and single drawer fridge/freezer added to the flexibility within the kitchen – small load cleanup and handy fresh fruit and veg storage for two, then expanding to fully cleaning capability and a large ice chest, respectively, when dinner parties and events were on the calendar. A real addition was the Kohler “Stages” sink with mis en place function (food prep dishes) and stepped platform for dish drying which clearly confirmed that this kitchen would host a serious cook.

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The new layout allowed for additional pantry and microwave storage next to the fridge, which included tray and platter storage as well as large rollouts for food stuffs or small appliances.

There was even room for the resident borzoi, who is greatly revered, clearly and deservedly, as it has its own built in eating station (yes, we measured his eating height!), pullout for food storage and designated drawer for 4 legged accoutrement.

All this aside – the real symphony came from beautiful, stunning, quality finishes. Water jet cut calacatta backsplash, Vancouver Island white marble countertops, brushed gold fixtures, dentil moulding, sinuous mullions, and of course soft airy blue and white cabinetry were the final denoument in this well composed piece fit for most deserving and delightful, creative, clients. This was a true collaboration!