Fresh faced

The kitchen is the hub of a home the center of attention for socializing and family life. For this reason, it needs a winning aesthetic as well as functionality. Set in a prominent position and keeping the air clean in an open-plan space, the range hood plays a pivotal role in a great design.

In this condominium in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the kitchen has been remodeled by designer Don Sazama of Sazama Design Build Remodel. The clients love entertaining and asked for a design that would complement this, while also providing ample space for two cooks. High-end appliances and refined finishes were requested.

In response, the existing space was stretched into a two-part galley kitchen, with the back of the original kitchen used as a mechanical and storage room. The new kitchen has two distinct work areas a cooking and cleanup space and the baking and prep area, says Sazama.

"Concrete condos often present challenges. The main wall at the front of the kitchen is load bearing so we were not allowed to penetrate it, causing issues with appliance placement. Our solution was to tuck the baking and prep area behind the structural wall and introduce an appliance wall and an alcove for the prep area.

"Creating a warm yet contemporary kitchen involved a broad selection of textures and colors," says the designer. "The kitchen pops with high-gloss eggplant cabinetry surrounded by a backsplash of violet-flecked iridescent tiles. The large range is topped by a swing-out Shade hood from Zephyr that is a work of art in itself."

The Zephyr hood was specified because its contemporary stylings and fluid shape make it an appropriate centerpiece for the cooking zone. In addition, the Shade's swing operation helps maximize visual and usable space.

The pro-style range hood also delivers the powerful operation required to keep open-plan spaces fresh, with a 1000 CFM operation.

"The clients were thrilled with the result as they now have a kitchen that works well day-to-day and is the hub of every party the owners can entertain and still be part of the action."

Zephyr Ventilation offers an array of range hood solutions, including the Shade, from the Cheng Collection by respected Californian designer Fu-Tung Cheng. The Shade pairs chic stainless steel curves with interchangeable front panels, allowing for a range of design options.

Zephyr's showroom is in the heart of San Francisco's design district. The 6000sq ft space displays the range hoods in real-life kitchen vignettes. Friendly staff at Zephyr can provide design insights and all the information needed to help select the right model for your kitchen.

For details of your nearest authorized dealer, or to visit the company's showroom, contact Zephyr Ventilation, 2277 Alameda Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, phone tollfree 888 880 Vent (8368). Website: zephyronline.com.

Story by: Trendsideas