Divide and conquer kitchen with double islands by designer Steven Gamper and Cedric Brown
This kitchen by Steven Gamper has a symmetric feel
When you entertain on a large scale it makes sense to design a kitchen that is both generous and welcoming. However, part of the agenda is ensuring its size doesn't overwhelm a visitor at first glance. One way to optimize functionality and at the same time play down visual mass is to introduce two kitchen islands instead of one.
For this kitchen, by designer Steven Gamper and owner Cedric Brown, there are two islands, two dishwashers, two ovens with drawers and two sinks. This approach allows more than one chef to use the kitchen at the same time without getting under each other's feet, says Brown.
"Besides the plus of dual work surfaces, two islands also avoid a monolithic chunk at the front of the space and allow speedy entry into the heart of the kitchen, without the need to navigate round a massive piece of cabinetry."
Gamper says the symmetry of the L-shaped islands is continued right through the aesthetic.
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"Lacquered countertop cabinets are set to left and right of the central cooktop and tall cherry cabinets stand beyond these again on each side, with two rectangular windows above."
Part of the room's clean-lined balance comes from a strong emphasis on horizontal lines and rectangular shapes. The lacquered cabinet fronts, cherry drawers, stainless steel drawers beneath the cooktop, and even the windows and doors have this emphasis. In contrast, the space is overarched by a shallow barrel ceiling.
Other exceptions to the accent on straight lines and balance are the coffee machine and steam convection oven, which are set into protruding framed elements, offset from the cherry base cabinets. On the opposite side of the kitchen two ovens are similarly asymmetrically framed.
While the design offers a sense of formality, the material palette brings warmth. Three wood species feature in this space the rich zebrano bartops set above the islands, the mid-tone cherry cabinets and the dark-stained oak floor and matching window and door frames.
"I wanted to achieve the look of a modern Italian villa and material choices played a part in this, too," says Brown. "The backsplash is in a classic basketweave pattern but the tiles are gray slate for a more contemporary accent. This stone also features in other areas of the home, as do the stained oak window and door surrounds.
"The pared-back base trim also walks a fine line between rustic and minimalist modern."
Credit list
Architect
Kitchen designer
Builder
Countertops
Lighting
Kitchen sink
Oven, ventilation, dishwasher
Waste disposal
Interior designer
Cabinet company
Cabinetry
Backsplash
Wallcoverings
Blinds
Faucets
Cooktop
Story by: Charles Moxham
Home kitchen bathroom commercial design
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