MARCH 2020 RETAILOBSERVER.COM
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A young family found this pre-war colonial in Larchmont, New
York in need of a serious overhaul. After a complete gut job and
rework of the entire home, they created a compact, vibrantly
colorful kitchen open to the family room.
The design objectives were to create an upbeat family space
with an open flow to all rooms in the house, inject whimsy humor
and color into the kitchen space that could set the tone for the rest
of the home, and maximize storage in the minimal space with
custom storage in all base cabinets.
A nautical indigo color was chosen for the island and tall storage
cabinets, with a subtle warm gray on the perimeter. Natural walnut
shelving and countertop on the peninsula evoke a mid-century
vibe which relates to other vintage furniture pieces in the home.
Colorful cement tiles were carried all the way up the counters to
inject pattern and whimsy, while brass fixtures and hardware
strike a handsome contrast with the deep indigo color scheme.
The original kitchen of this rowhouse condo was a small galley tucked
in a corner and in need of updating. My hope was to capitalize on the
long run at the back of the condo and essentially flip the dining room
and kitchen functions such that the kitchen became larger and the
dining space reduced.
The new layout allows for an island with seating for three as well as a
dining space suitable for four. The homeowner loves to entertain so the
bar area that shares the dining space allows for ample storage and
countertop space for bar items as well as extra storage for kitchen items.
We uncovered a brick wall behind the dry wall in the original kitchen
and because it had been covered, it was in decent shape. This is now
a back drop for the dining space and adds so much warmth and
character.
I believe this project proves that city living can be stylish and functional
while also providing wonderful living space and ample storage.
SECOND PLACE / SMALL TRADITIONAL KITCHEN
THIRD PLACE / SMALL TRADITIONAL KITCHEN
Karen Swanson
New England Design Works, Boston, MA
Photography: Jared Kuzia, Jared Kuzia Photography
Sarah Robertson AKBD
Studio Dearborn, Mamaroneck, NY
Photography: Adam Macchia,
Adam Kane Macchia Photography
