Gather round

Muted colors, traditional cabinetry and simple lines can all evoke earlier eras as this remodeled kitchen shows.

The room desperately needed a makeover, says designer Kevin Studzinski. The homeowners wanted to leave their white 70s cabinetry behind, and have a classically designed space.

After discussion with both homeowners, the designer drew up a detailed wish list. The couple enjoy entertaining and fine wine, and the wife is an enthusiastic cook. She wanted her guests to be able to gather round and help her cook so a kitchen island was important, along with a classic look.

To plan the space, Studzinski had to take into account an old addition that had resulted in ceilings of different heights, and a structural beam from an original outside wall. To open up the space, he combined the rear entry and mud room into one room that now features a reading nook, bar and island. A built-in bookcase, shown right, faces the reading area.

For a classic look, he specified Omega custom cabinetry with a Templeton door style, and paired it with toning granite countertops. The wood is maple, with a Cocoa Coffee finish and glaze.

"The colors are muted, and old world with echoes of an Italian country home," he says.

A matching built-in bar, with a hammered copper bar sink and Rohl faucet, evokes the built-in furniture of Chicago apartment kitchens in the 1920s, says Studzinski.

Community Home Supply is a kitchen and bath retailer offering decorative plumbing, bath fixtures and furniture, kitchen cabinetry and accessories.

For more information, contact Community Home Supply, 3924 N Lincoln Av, Chicago, IL 60613, phone (773) 281 7010. Or visit the website: www.communityhomesupply.com. Omega Cabinetry: www.omegacab.com.

Story by: Trendsideas