Artisan appeal

Often a kitchen's decor is an extension of the design theme in the rest of the home. A spacious residence echoing the look of classic Adirondack summer retreats is likely to feature a strong, country-style kitchen with wood surfaces and a rustic, hand-built aesthetic.

Such was the inspiration for this kitchen in a house in the mountains, designed by architect Laine Jones and built with hand-crafted techniques by Steve Howell.

"The kitchen, like the majority of the interior, is largely in Douglas fir, with an oiled finish although the ceiling has a gloss finish to protect against cooking grease," says Jones. "The island has been painted in grey tones to avoid the timber becoming overly prominent."

Slate floor tiles in subdued tones extend the emphasis on natural materials suited to the rustic style of the house and its remote setting.

The cabinetry is in a Shaker style with recessed-panel doors, a look also favoured in the Great Camps of the Adirondacks.

However, the house has been designed to have a pervading air of individualism and fun, says Jones. A tree motif carved between the rangehood and flanking cabinetry is an indication of the design's one-off personality, and is found in various places throughout the house.

"An adjacent walk-in pantry adds to this country kitchen's storage options and functionality," says Jones.

Story by: Charles Moxham

Photography by: Brian Vanden Brink