Feminine sensibility - Intricately styled kitchen by Davida Rodriguez

Often the personality of a kitchen design can be formed by a single strong element. The backsplash engaging at eye level and covering a large area is one popular way to set the scene.

This dainty kitchen is part of a house remodel by designer Davida Rodriguez. The previous enclosed space was looking tired after years of catering to teenagers. Instead, the owner wanted a room that would open to the adjacent family room one large volume with a light, feminine look running throughout, says Rodriguez.

"We knocked down a wall between the two spaces and stripped out the kitchen and old drywall. White cabinetry with classic mouldings was introduced, with ribbon detailing added on the range hood and valance above the sink."

A white backsplash with hand-painted pink, green, yellow accents on pillowed ceramic tiles was sourced by Rodriguez to set off the design. This fabric-look tilework can be seen behind the cooktop and on other wall surfaces in the kitchen.

The pastel tiles are complemented by light-green granite countertops with a swirling pattern that resembles marble.

To give the kitchen a cottage-like feel, Rodriguez complemented these delicate touches with a rust-toned hardwood floor that has a slightly rustic, textured finish.

Despite the wealth of detail and finish, the kitchen has a hard-working, practical side. The understated desk area is used daily and is fitted with file drawers to the right and a paper shredder and printer in custom drawers to the left.

For the chef's benefit, a clear-ice maker and warming drawer are tucked out of sight in the island, and the sink area is served with an integrated dishwasher and waste unit.

Integrating the long appliance list and achieving the required functionality was a challenge for the designer. However, the completed kitchen has the feel of a serene living space a natural extension of the adjoining reinvented family room.

Story by: Charles Moxham