Brader's Woodcraft, Inc.
A European country kitchen was the goal at the onset of this new construction project. The homeowners wanted a highly functional space that would reflect the style of the house. As a 504- square-foot room with 10-foot ceilings centrally located in the home, there needed to be some definition of space to create smooth transition between the adjoining two rooms—the dining and great rooms. Two breakfront walls of glass and wood cabinetry along with a 9-foot archway serve to define and guide, to give someone entering the space a visual sense of entry points and where to walk. These components help to create an inviting space and avoid a feeling of unstructured vastness.
Custom-built all-wood cabinetry with a flush beaded inset frame design sets the tone with square raised panel doors accented by a raised molding inside the beaded framed openings. Scalloped furniture legs were used to accent base cabinetry and the perimeter cabinetry was painted linen white. The cherry center island was finished in a medium toned walnut stain and the carved corbels on either end of the island contributed to the many details involved in generating the desired European country effect.
To avoid having the appliances seen from the dining and great rooms, the built-in refrigerator was integrated with wood paneled fronts. The range received a welcoming hearth-style wood hood with a mantel shelf. Two dishwashers have wood fronts to incorporate into the surrounding cabinetry.
White marble countertops and a white marble tile backsplash contribute to the brightness, which was a significant point of consideration due to limited natural light in the room. Under- and above-cabinet lighting, along with recessed lighting, offer ambient and task lighting.
The red oak flooring was finished with a medium walnut stain, complementing the painted cabinetry and stained island.
Ample storage and work stations, casual seating and a space well-incorporated in this new home round out the functionality of a kitchen that will effectively and comfortably serve for years to come as prep, cook and entertaining support to the dining room situated on the other side of a graceful arch.
