Mid-century modern

Most remodeling projects are a juggling act, especially kitchen designs that need to balance aesthetics with functionality and restrictions imposed by the space itself.

This project was no exception. Designer Cheryl Kees Clendenon of In Detail Kitchen and Bath says the homeowners wanted a kitchen that would fit with the Mid-century modern architectural style of the '60s house. The design also needed to accommodate the fixed position of the ovens and refrigerator, and existing doors and windows.

"To maximize the budget, we didn't want to move these elements," she says. "It was also important to maintain a light, airy feel, while indulging the owners' love of bold colors."

In meeting these objectives, Clendenon paired dark walnut cabinets with white CaesarStone countertops and a white-tiled backsplash. The monochromatic palette provides a foil for bright lavender-colored walls, which meet the clients' request for a bold aesthetic.

"To offset the bright lavender, the trim is painted in a soft dove-gray shade, rather than the typical white," the designer says. "Visually, this blends in to create a much quieter look."

Display cabinets feature rippled glass that replicates the original glass in the front door. Square-edged handles also enhance the modernist look.

The position of the cooktop was moved from the rear wall to a new peninsula facing the breakfast area. This means the owners can socialize with family and friends while preparing meals.

"This cabinetry has a more modern feel, due to the use of an aluminum laminate that resembles stainless steel, but is more cost effective," says Clendenon. "The flush cooktop also gives it a very contemporary look the wiring is drawn off to the side of the unit and hidden within the large cabinet."

One wall of the kitchen accommodates the major appliances, which are set within a bank of cabinetry modeled on modern Scandinavian kitchens.

"The set of three cabinets on the right side of the wall enhances this feel," says the designer. "And, although the wall is flush, the pantry cabinets are just 15in deep, while the appliances extend much further back."

The flooring features striated 12in x 24in white porcelain tiles, which were chosen to balance the dark wood of the cabinets. The tiles help ensure the kitchen remains light and airy.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Greg Riegler Photography