Command center kitchen in the heart of the home

Modern lifestyles are about connection and it's not all digital. Even the way we plan our living environments keeps us in touch with one another.

This house, designed by architect Rex Hohlbein, is a case in point. Although the owners originally planned a remodeling project, they changed their minds when Hohlbein suggested a new house with a manipulated floor plan.

"Starting anew meant we could position the kitchen right in the center of the house, which would provide the sense of connection the owners wanted," the architect says. "The kitchen is open to both formal and informal living and dining areas."

Designing a new house also meant architectural elements could be used to help define the kitchen.

"There was an interest in breaking away from the idea of a house that's a box with holes cut into it," says Hohlbein. "This house is more about shifting planes and spaces that intersect and slide past each other. The exposed rafters, for example, start on the interior and extend through to the exterior, enhancing the link between interior spaces, and between the inside and out.

"The kitchen tucks beneath a lowered section of the ceiling, which gives it added intimacy. Having such niches coming off the large volume of the great room creates a hierarchy of spaces. It also provides areas of light and shadow that help accentuate the different spaces within the overall area."

The architect deliberately avoided overhead cabinets, choosing instead to retain an open look for the kitchen. This also ensures the views of the living and dining areas, and the views outdoors to two courtyards, are not obstructed.

To accommodate extra storage, Hohlbein added an open-ended butler's pantry that incorporates a freestanding wall of cabinets. The refrigerator is positioned closest to the kitchen, just a step away from a sink on the island.

All the cabinets, including the butler's pantry, feature Douglas fir, with dark charcoal-gray soapstone tops. The same wood features throughout the house, providing further visual continuity.

Hohlbein says the island has become a gathering space for the family and friends.

"Everyone gathers to chat and watch the cook, which is exactly what was envisioned."

Story by: Trendsideas