Designers are cranking up the luxe to create a new generation of bling-beckoning, high-sparkle hubs to culinary chic
By Alexandria Abramian
Combine Contemporary & Classic
“We painted the cabinetry two colors: white (always timeless) and a dark grey/blue. We then added dental crown mouldings to the cabinetry for that classic touch. The brass cabinet hardware and plumbing fixtures have contemporary lines and the reeded glass in the cabinets brings a modern feeling to the room. The gorgeous light fixtures over the island are sleek and glamorous (especially when on!).” —Nicole Michael
Nicole Michael Designs | nicolemichaeldesigns.com
Commit to Color
“The saturated green Zellige tile, curved counter, and oak tambour are what create interest and a wow factor. It is unexpected and so eye-catching. The biggest design risk with this project was convincing my client that they would love the green. It’s pretty GREEN!”—Tania Cassill
huit | huitlaguna.com
Find Your Spotlight Moment
“When starting any project, I look for the one element, product, color, material, etc. that I can’t live without, and that becomes the center of my design/story board. From there, all material choices, textile preferences, paint color selections, textural layers, and grounding elements start to flow and find their way to the project. The “one thing” for me from the very start of this project was the show-stopping True Refrigeration Emerald and Brass refrigerator/freezer column duo. Despite the unconventional choice, it was love at first sight and I knew without a doubt it would be the focal point in the kitchen. It was, it still is, and I’m still very much in love with this appliance masterpiece!” —Danielle Slutzky
Flair Design House | flairdesignhouse.com
Skip the Matching Scheme
“The mixture of materials is our favorite aspect, and to some may be considered the biggest design risk as it does not all match. The combination of stain grade and painted cabinetry, metal accents in both blackened steel and brass, and leather pull together in a seamless fashion, and create a warm and inviting space to gather.” —Denise Morrison
Morrison Interiors | morrisoninteriors.com
Invite Drama to the Party
“Elevated materials, colors, and textures were the focus when designing this kitchen update. The show-stopper for us in designing the kitchen has to be the island. The island is where everyone gathers for entertaining and gathering. We placed the focus on upgrading the look with a dramatic waterfall edge counter in porcelain. We chose porcelain for its durability, cost against marble, and practical everyday use. The durability of porcelain was just as important as the look of the material. We love the play of a contemporary look with white oak cabinetry, dramatic veining of the island counter, and black pendant lighting, mixed with the stone wall texture surrounding the range.” —Marcia Bryan
Bryan Design Group | bryandesigngroup.com
