Every square inch of space was utilized in this kitchen, including the area under the elongated island.
Laurey W. Glenn
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TRICKS OF THE TRADE
Stephen shares some designing details.
- Letting in Light: We opened up the back wall, removed the cabinets, and added glass doors across the kitchen to allow views of the pool and yard beyond.
- Traffic flow: Traffic is not held up in this kitchen. The key to better access was eliminating awkward doors to the dining room and replacing them with bifold ones.
- Clever cabinets: We took care of mass and clutter by removing doors and cabinets that restricted sight lines and by utilizing space such as that under the island. Having an additional closet just off the kitchen also adds plenty of storage.
This Dallas kitchen had been remodeled three times prior to this update to acommodate changing needs. Each previous owner was careful to stay true to the home's original design, and it was equally important to current residents Kathy and Sam Leake that they respect that tradition as well. They worked to open up the room--improving both the amount of natural light and traffic flow. Plus, attractive design details give the space a cozier feel.
Letting in Light
Before, as the Leakes will attest, their kitchen was a dark, cramped space with little character. To let in light and allow
outside views, a pair of small windows was replaced with operable and stationary floor-to-ceiling French doors.
The kitchen now connects to the dining room through two doors that permit traffic to flow freely from one area to the other. "The openness changed the home from a 1950s ideal, where the kitchen was hidden from public view, to a contemporary floor plan that showcases this room as the heart of family and entertaining activities," says architect Stephen B. Chambers, who worked on the new design.
Cozy Space
This room may look like a kitchen, but comfortable furnishings and inviting details make it live more like a family room.
A grouping of upholstered pieces at one end provides a relaxed sitting area. Barstools that pull up to the island reinforce
the idea of a large built-in table. Between the doors to the dining room are open shelves with a TV and accessories.
What's more, appliances are out of sight. "I didn't want that to be the first thing you notice, so I put the ovens and microwave down low," says Kathy. The refrigerator's wooden panels blend in with the cabinetry.
Respecting Tradition
"This house has many great architectural features; we wanted to maintain the integrity of the original," explains Kathy. Stephen
and contractor Marcus Taylor worked to ensure that details, such as the custom cabinetry and intricate floor designs, would
coordinate with the rest of the interiors. The measure of success is best summed up by Stephen. "In the end, it doesn't appear
to be a redo," he says.
For great ideas to create an outside living area, see "Porch Living," on page 178 in the May 2003 issue of Southern Living.
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