Chef's dream kitchen by Edward Kaplan

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New kitchen by architect Edward Kaplan

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Architects and designers frequently design kitchens for homeowners more interested in the look of the space than the functionality. But for the owner of this new house, it was the whole package that was important.

Architect Edward Kaplan says the owner is passionate about cooking and loves to entertain.

"The kitchen was a very important part of the design," he says. "It needed to be integrated into the living space, just as it was in the original house on the site, which was in a poor condition and needed to be replaced. We also designed the space with a similar high ceiling."

Architectural integrity was another key factor. Kaplan says the kitchen needed to be anchored visually in one corner, but it could not impinge on the overall space.

"To integrate the kitchen, we extended the cherry cabinetry out into the main room, where it forms buffet cabinets. The cherry complements other wood elements, including the exposed beams, window and door frames and the walnut floor, which all add visual warmth."

The kitchen also enhances the contemporary design aesthetic of the house. The island features stainless steel legs on the corners and stainless steel fronts the facing cabinets within the main work area. These surfaces, along with a stainless steel perimeter countertop, acknowledge the functional role of this part of the kitchen. So, too does the practical tiled flooring in this area.

The main island countertop reflects its more social role the granite top has iridescent blue flecks that catch the light. Guests perched at the island have the added advantage of being able to glimpse an outdoor terrace through two low windows at either end of the rear countertop.

Kaplan says providing plenty of storage was essential. In addition to two large pull-out pantries to the right of the refrigerator, there is a large amount of storage in the island even the stainless steel legs swing open to reveal shelves.