Best New Kitchen

Because the kitchen is visible from several other rooms, designer Chandos Dodson Epley had the task of making the space both pretty and functional. Brent Mooneyham, project architect at Norman D. Askins, PC, notes, "It's a clean design with subtle embellishments." Chandos started by centering the range between a pair of windows to infuse light into the room. Then she packed in endless storage, a 5- by 10-foot island, and three eating areas. Furniture-like cabinetry and a muted color scheme help the kitchen blend with adjacent rooms.

"An excellent combination of traditional and modern elements keeps this kitchen fresh," says Ginny Lummus, executive assistant at Norman D. Askins, PC. Fixtures with clean lines, like the metal lanterns and graphic hood, satisfy the homeowner's affinity for contemporary details, while dark wood floors, a beamed ceiling, apron-front sink, wicker barstools, and hand-painted tiles steep the space in traditional warmth.

"It's hard to inject character and soul into a newly built kitchen," says Jessica Thuston. "However, that stunning backsplash lends instant patina." Though the antique-inspired tiles extend to the ceiling, a tonal motif keeps the pattern from overpowering the room, and the glass lanterns provide clear views of the design.

"It needed to be something that had some presence," says Chandos. With that focus in mind, the designer partnered with The Lonestar Range Hood Company (custom-rangehoods.com) to create the stately vent cover, made of powder-coated steel and brushed nickel.

A built-in wall of cabinets provides generous storage in a palette that the homeowner, who loves neutrals, could get on board with. Inspired by on-trend gray kitchens, Chandos opted for Mindful Gray by Sherwin-Williams—a fresh, taupe-y take on the popular hue.

The first accessory selected for the space was a collection of antique ironstone china. The pieces are displayed on rustic, wooden open shelves supported by extra-long iron brackets.

With a clever paper towel holder, a disguised trash pullout, and plenty of storage for linens and utensils, the island was designed to be the room's command center.

A light-filled nook that overlooks the pool is tucked into a corner of the kitchen and serves as a cozy retreat. The homeowner envisioned it as a place to enjoy a cup of coffee or host impromptu guests.