Starring role

With the right design and extra-close attention to detail, an addition to an older home can blend in seamlessly, as this project shows.

The kitchen in a traditional country cottage is within a new addition, which was designed by Olson Lewis Dioli and Doktor Architects and Planners, Inc to complement the character of the rest of the house.

Kitchen designer Ian Mentasti of Stephen Terhune Woodworking says the design needed to accommodate two central structural columns right in the center of the room.

"We made these columns oversized for added visual impact," says Mentasti. "In doing this, we were also able to capture the island while still ensuring there was sufficient circulation on either side."

The columns align with oversized beams, reinforcing the strong sense of symmetry that helps define this kitchen.

"The focal point of the kitchen is the marble-backed cooking center," Mentasti says. "All the elements work to draw the eye to this centerpiece. For example, the walnut bar top on the island creates an elegant transition between the family room and kitchen, but it also leads the eye to what lies beyond the expanse of white Carrara marble."

To help warm the space visually, and to enhance the country feel, the custom hood and the structural columns feature a thin line of walnut trim, which is a repeated detail on the underside of the cooktop.

The cabinetry features traditional recessed panel doors with beading.

"The old-style construction of the doors and drawers and the reverse raised panels ensure that the cabinets have an innate strength," says the designer. "This was an important part of the design the kitchen needed to suit an active family with college-aged children."

To help relieve the long expanse of the perimeter cabinets, the cooking center juts out and is supported by small feet.

"This makes it look like an individual piece of furniture," Mentasti says. "It also allows a greater depth for the cooktop."

Because the owners like to cook and entertain, the kitchen features a number of separate workstations, including a lowered baking center. There is also a walk-in pantry, a separate butler's pantry, a wet bar around the corner behind the refrigerator, and a tea and coffee-making area.

"There is a place for everything in this kitchen, and it is all right at hand," says the designer.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Jamie Cobeldick