Contemporary kitchen for two cooks by Darren James

Setting up a new kitchen for a couple who cook together requires deft space planning. It also helps to have two of almost everything.

This kitchen by Darren James was designed for owners who wanted to bring the colors and textures of the outdoors inside. They also requested a layout that would let them both prep and cook without getting under each other's feet. A modest home office was to be another aspect of the renovation.

It was decided to position a new pantry and the study at the end of the kitchen, says James.

"We found the extra space by appropriating a bedroom that sat a few steps higher. Ceilings were aligned and new flooring was laid to match the existing kitchen floor.

"A lot of the planning was based on the way the couple operate together. In response, I designed a large peninsula with two identical prep stations. Each has its own butcher's block, sink, and an electronic pop-up utility station for knives, spices and oils. Both areas have drainage grooves routed into the countertop to prevent water getting to the cooktop or pop-ups.

"A separate stainless steel workstation on the wall behind is used for larger prep jobs."

The design separates the various cooking options a cooktop is on the island, ovens are on the perimeter wall, and a teppanyaki plate and deep fryer are in the scullery.

To bring in a sense of the natural world, James chose marble cladding for the peninsula and avocado-colored tiles for the backsplash. The designer also introduced a panel of stacked solid cedar, stained in Half Walnut, adding texture and creating a warm, inviting nook for the home office.

However, with double prep stations, many cooking options and the stainless steel rear countertop, the kitchen has a semi-industrial feel. The pantry features stainless steel and cedar open shelving, adding to this impression.

Story by: Charles Moxham