Kitchen by architect Tim Hagman

Colorado is known for its traditional mountain architecture, much of which mimics the European model. But the owners of this house took their architect's advice and opted for a more open, honest architectural expression.

Architect Tim Hagman says the house is the antithesis of the owners' traditional home in Boston.

"While that house has a classic New England architecture, this project was all about openness and a much more modern design, which is also quite a change from traditional Rockies architecture. Exposing the structural elements, for example, is part of the contemporary expression and a more honest way to use materials."

Because one of the owners is in the restaurant business, the kitchen was of paramount importance.

"It needed to be center stage, and it had to maximize the spectacular mountain and lake views," one owner says. "We wanted it to be a place where people could gather with a coffee or a wine and socialize while meals were prepared."

The architect says the shape of the kitchen echoes the form of the house, which wraps around the elevated site in a large arc. This ensures the view can be enjoyed in all directions.

"The two islands follow that curve," says Hagman. "For the outer island, we angled the front panels, which created a more informal composition and a sense of movement. The contrast with the vertical elements also adds visual interest."

Hagman says the materials wood, glass, steel, stone and concrete are a nod to tradition, but have been used in a very contemporary way.

Mahogany, which was chosen for its interesting grain, features on the kitchen cabinets. The bar top of the outer island is concrete, while the lower countertop is stainless steel. A butcher's block was specified for the main work island directly opposite the cooker.

The cooking center sits within a high pavilion-style volume that appears to protrude through from the outside even the siding extends through to the kitchen. Similarly, the dining area is enclosed within an open-ended gabled volume that appears to slide into the room from the outside. Both the painted siding and the shingled roof enhance the connection between inside and out.

Functionality is not compromised. In addition to extensive storage within the two islands and overhead cabinets beside the cooker, there is a second kitchen behind the cooking center. A variety of workstations also ensures several people can work in the kitchen at the same time.

Story by: Trendsideas