More than two decades in America haven’t dulled Dorita and Andreas Raczynski’s taste for international flavor. A recent renovation gave their McLean, Virginia, kitchen a cool, contemporary look that never goes out of style, here or abroad.

Simple Not Stark
Leslie Roosevelt, a designer with Gilday Renovations, began with Shaker-style cabinets. The Shaker elements--clean lines, plain trim, and no ornamentation--are great for a contemporary decor. The timeless design is another plus: “It won’t look dated in a few years,” Leslie says. If the homeowners ever want a new look, the cabinets can adapt to a number of styles. Stainless appliances and hardware add industrial flair, as do cylindrical steel legs on the island.

Warming Touches
Ceramic tile that looks like terra-cotta grounds the light space with warm color. It looks like the real thing but is easier to maintain. The Silestone countertops in Amarillo Sand also add a richness. “It looks like sun reflecting off the beach to me,” Dorita says.

What Is Silestone?
This material is a high-gloss engineered stone made of quartz. It is stronger than granite and is naturally scratch resistant. Because it is nonporous, it is also stain resistant. Unlike granite, marble, or limestone, it does not need to be sealed. It is available in a variety of colors and can be cut to any shape or size to suit your layout. For more information visit www.silestoneusa.com.

"Stir Up a Sleek Look" is from the June 2008 issue of Southern Living.