The house they have built is also children and adult friendly. The kitchen, in the center of the house, is a large open space that includes informal dining, a family gathering space, and easy access to a covered porch with a cozy fireplace. With three young children, the owner wanted a large room that family and friends would spend time cooking, dining, doing homework, playing games, and relaxing with music and television.
The kitchen is arranged with two islands and a primary work space that easily accommodates more than one cook. A 36" Viking range is the primary work space with a 48" refrigerator and double sink close by. The microwave is located within this space below the counter. A second island has bar stools for quick snacks or to do homework. There is also a sink, warming drawer, and under counter oven, creating another prep and service area. Just opposite this is a desk for the computer, files, and pretty glass mullioned doors above to display collectibles. The butler's pantry can be seen just off the kitchen ticked in a space that leads to the formal dining room.
The cabinetry is a warm patina natural cherry with inset doors and antique bronze hardware. The second island is painted in a soft sage with glaze and rub-thru to show the warm cherry wood underneath, creating a balance with the perimeter stain. Included in the cabinetry are convenient storage accessories such as a double pull out wastebasket, roll out shelves, spice drawers, tray storage, and cutlery organizers that enhance the efficiency of storage. Granite countertops were chosen for durability and to unify the color scheme. The owner chose limestone backsplash and hood to compliment the granite.
After a year of settling in, the family feels their goals have been achieved. The kitchen is the center of activity and functions beautifully.