A cook's kitchen

A n important first step in kitchen design is understanding exactly how to make cooking and entertaining easy and enjoyable.

This is the vantage point from which the designers at St Charles of New York approach each kitchen they design, says principal Robert Schwartz.

"Even though it forms part of the Kips Bay Decorator Show House, the kitchen shown here is no trophy kitchen," says Schwartz. "Inspired by a Manhattan bistro, it was meant for real cooks, serious or casual. Anyone could come in here and start cooking."

Karen Williams, also a principal, says the kitchen's professional-style faucet and range, plus the open shelving, make it user-friendly and very workable.

"For example, a built-in butcher's block anchors the food prep area. I have something like this in my own kitchen and I love it. All your prep items are in one place."

The designers focus just as much on style as function. Feature elements include traditional tin ceilings and white painted cabinets, created in updated designs. Classic materials, such as stainless steel, Pietro Cardoza stone and Calcutta Gold tiles are used in new, inventive ways.

For more information, contact St. Charles of New York, Architects & Designers' Building, 8th floor, 150 E 58th St, NY 10155, phone (212) 838 2812. Website: www.stcharlesofnewyork.com.

Story by: Trendsideas