Tranquil appeal

The U-shaped kitchen is a classic design, but it can easily be given modern relevance the secret lies in the forms and fine detailing.

This crisp kitchen remodel was created by designer Kira Gray. The owners had asked for a restful, contemporary and spacious design that would blend with the beachside environment and optimize the views, says Gray.

"Their first request drove the look," says Gray. "The owners did not want an island, so I designed a U-shaped kitchen and set it between the living and family rooms. With wraparound cabinetry on one side and a wall of ovens, refrigerators and storage on the other, the central space offers uncluttered sightlines to the sea from the rear of the open-plan room."

Another advantage of the U-shaped layout is that the cabinets break up the flow of the space, making the elongated room seem wider.

In keeping with the owners' wishes, Gray gave the cabinets a quiet, clean-lined air.

"I introduced a set of raised cupboards in washed ash veneer at each end. These ground the workspace and because the owners didn't want seating, they also act as leaners. In addition, these taller elements shield any kitchen clutter from the adjacent living spaces.

"Aluminum edge detailing on these cabinets ties with the recessed handles on the drawers and tall toekicks, which are in the same material."

To reduce the heaviness of the substantial pieces, Gray cantilevered the cabinets at both ends. However, it is the finer points that give the kitchen an air of craftsmanship and refinement.

"The waterfall quartz countertops and upstands add to the serenity of the design."

The wall opposite houses dual pantries, two refrigerator-freezers and two ovens but only a flat plane is visible from the end of the room.

The sandy hues of the two-tone kitchen echo the beachscape beyond.

Story by: Trendsideas