Cool intrigue

Finding a way to combine a clean, contemporary look with the fizz of the unexpected comes down to simplicity and balance. That's the view of designer Deganit Albalak, who worked with architect Daren Shu on the remodeling of this Victorian house in Palo Alto, California.

The owners wanted a kitchen that was modern yet cozy, says Albalak, a designer with European Kitchen Design. The team's approach was to combine cool and lively colors with a mix of textures and finishes, and sleek cabinetry.

"The combination of creamy yellow, vanilla and charcoal grey offers a bright yet intimate feel," she says. "Changing ceiling heights in different areas also helps the kitchen to feel open and interesting."

Light has been used to add interest and depth. Daylight fills the kitchen through the skylights on both sides of the kitchen, while recessed lighting above the island gives a feeling of space and airiness.

The mid-tone wood flooring provides a neutral backdrop for the space, while an open glass panel for decorative pieces links the kitchen to the family room. Along with the soffit above, the panel helps to establish the island as a piece of furniture, rather than just a space for preparing food.

To balance the liveliness of the ocean-blue glass mosaic tile backsplash, an acid-washed limestone countertop was specified for its calm look and finish.

The matte laminate cabinetry, custom-made by Alno in Germany, was chosen for its functionality and slim, simple lines. Albalak says that Alno is known for its quality and service, and for designs that maximize the space around the kitchen.

"This Alno door style is contemporary, clean and very simple but when you blend that with the colors, lighting and ceiling heights, all of a sudden you've got a very different look," she says.

Contact Alno San Francisco by European Kitchen Design, 243 Brannan St, San Francisco, CA 94107, phone (415) 541 0754. Email: info@europeankitchendesign.com.

Story by: Trendsideas