Light Hearted
One thing this kitchen had going for it (that many do not) was ample room to move around–453 square feet of space. Ironically, though, the existing space felt tight and compartmentalized as a result of built walls and stacked cabinets added in a previous renovation. Opening things up was key.
The client wanted a sophisticated look, but assumed the only way to achieve a light kitchen was with white painted cabinets similar to what she’d had before. That is, until kitchen designer Jennifer Gilmer suggested using figured sycamore (a light wood) in a Biedermeier style as an alternative to darker wood species or paint.
Once the walls were removed and plumbing mechanicals were rerouted, the wide open space became a prime candidate for two islands–which now offer tons of counter space for cooking, projects, and social interaction. Floor-to-ceiling pantry units on either side of a large picture window provide extra storage and make up for the reduction in wall cabinetry.
