Grace and balance from Kitchen Trends volume 2705

The nuances of visual balance in an interior can bring instinctive pleasure. Attention to scale and evenly weighted cabinet pieces will help visitors as well as family feel at home, even if they can't say exactly why.
This demure kitchen and nearby breakfast area form part of a run of three rooms at the rear of a classically styled house by architect Jan Gleysteen. The kitchen acts as a through space so the island is positioned as a buffer for the kitchen's inner workings. The design is about symmetry and balance, says Gleysteen.
"The large 60in cooktop is the heart of the kitchen – the arch detail makes it look like an old-world hearth. Cabinetry to right and left is bookended by pilasters that form pull-out spice shelves, detailing that is repeated on the island. In addition, the cabinets have an undulating quality – some stand slightly proud, while others are recessed."
The architect introduced a box bay window in front of the farmhouse sink, creating space for a deep counter. Bringing the window down to counter height optimizes views to the garden.
"Base cutouts on the sink cabinet are part of a furniture look in the kitchen, suggesting it has been drawn together over time. The mahogany island provides a contrast to the white hand-glazed wall cabinets – both in finish and counter depth – adding to the gathered-together effect."
The built-up granite island counter features stepped edges and corner bites – details which soften the mass of the substantial piece.
"Everything is also subtly scaled – the arch over the breakfast counter is built to the height of someone sitting at the breakfast table."
This kitchen evokes a classic aesthetic, with furniture-like detailing such as the freestanding legs on the mahogany island furthering this idea. Mahogany was chosen because it also features prominently in the adjacent family room. Despite a relaxed look, the design has a strong focus on symmetry and scale – for example, the island countertop has a deep profile in keeping with its large size. The beamed ceiling was introduced to achieve added continuity with the family room.
Credit List
Architect and kitchen designer : Jan Gleysteen AIA, NCARB, BSA, Institute of Classical Architecture NE, Jan Gleysteen Architects (Wellesley, MA)
Interior designer : Beth Herbert, Fringed Benefits Designs of Boston
Builder : Marc Kaplan, Sanford Custom Builders
Cabinetry : Custom in maple with painted finish and custom glazing by Wayne Towle
Backsplash : Tile Showcase, Boston Design Center
Countertops : Granite
Oven : Turbo Chef
Range : Wolf
Refrigeration : Sub-Zero
Dishwasher : Fisher & Paykel
Tile flooring : Design consultant Christine Bernier, Tile Showcase
Windows : Kolbe and Kolbe
Kitchen furniture : Stools by Charleston Forge, Camino chairs upholstered in Kravet fabric
Dining furniture : Directoire and Provence collections by Grange Furniture, Lee Jofa fabric on chairs
Wallcoverings : Benjamin Moore
Lighting : Niermann Weeks from M-Geough Associates, Boston Design Center
Story by Charles Moxham
Photography by Richard Mandelkorn
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