Apart from the crowd

Sometimes a recipe is so special, the ingredients are never divulged. The same could be said for a one-off kitchen.

But Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio in Glen Ellyn has no such qualms divulging the secrets to the company's ongoing success. As president Gail Drury, CMKBD, says, it's Drury Design's customer focus that makes the difference.

"No matter whether it's a traditional or contemporary style, every kitchen should reflect the homeowner's personality not that of the designer. The kitchens featured on these pages were designed to do exactly that. They provide both the aesthetics and the functionality the clients wanted."

For the family kitchen shown above, dividing the space into three zones, with two islands, was a practical option. The kitchen incorporates two food-preparation and clean-up zones, making it easy for more than one person to work in the kitchen at the same time.

"Although this is a relatively simple design, it incorporates detailing that accentuates the original architecture of the house," says Drury. "The furniture-style cabinets feature decorative ovolo corners. The island also has bun feet, which avoid a heavy look."

Drury says the lightly stained cherry cabinets match the existing woodwork in the house.

For the kitchen shown opposite, the owner wanted a design that would be in keeping with her traditional home, but she also wanted some whimsical touches that would reflect her personality.

"An unattractive wall was brought to life by centering the hood between two new openings to the family room," says Drury. "We also provided an L-shaped island, which helps separate the work area from the family space."

Traditional English turnings, astragal moldings and decorative corbels provide a furniture look in keeping with the home's architecture.

On the backsplash, an eclectic mix of tumbled marble, metal inserts and glass tiles adds visual excitement. To provide the playful elements the owner wanted, pierced metal light fixtures, colorful drapes and accessories were added.

The cabinetry in both kitchens was built by Grabill Cabinets in neighboring Indiana. Drury Design has a close relationship with Grabill Cabinetry, which has been handcrafting high-end kitchens for more than half a century.

For further information, or to visit the showroom, contact Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio, 512 N Main St, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137, phone (630) 469 4980. Website: www.drurydesigns.com.