Interior Design isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces, it’s about creating a mood and vibe that works with who you are and what you love. It is reimagining a room from every angle and working with your unique way of living. As time goes on and new homeowners take residence, the spaces we inhabit need to be updated and reflect those who live there.
This Kitchen had all the markings of the 1990s but was built in 2001. The folks that built this home obviously loved what was familiar and warm. All the woodwork was a golden orange maple. The floors were shiny gunstock oak also in a warm gold tone. It was time to give the home a facelift and a new personality!
First, we addressed how the space would function for the new homeowner. In the Kitchen, there were two closets at either end that were triangles inside with hard-to-reach shelves. When talking through with the client, we knew we could relocate the things they kept in these closets and open up some of the awkward angles. Secondly, the client did not want the post columns coming down from the ceiling. One of the columns was structural, so we would find a new way to treat that. And the other column was just decorative to balance the space out. The third and biggest change would be the island. This client did not want two islands at different heights. They wanted one big island that would also serve to entertain. With a Kitchen this size, the island was sure to be grand.
In the adjoining Hearth room, we wanted to open up the room and the drop ceiling detail and give our client more space to entertain and lounge. So, we worked behind the fireplace wall to combine a hallway within a NEW Mudroom space. This opened up the Hearth Room by 3 extra feet. Besides, if you are coming in from the garage, it would be better to land in a gorgeous and functional Laundry/ Mudroom that is ready for the weather and is well equipped with organized landing zones.
We started with the structural components. Since we were removing a column that was supporting part of the second floor, we had our contractor install a structural beam that we wrapped in Cedar and stained a beautiful walnut. To balance the new beam, we added beams on either side creating a grid. For a nice texture contrast, we added white wood planks to the ceiling as well.
The design direction is “rustic elegance”, combining classical finishes with raw materials for a truly vibrant combination. Striking shades of blue permeate the spaces and make the various areas connect visually.

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