Tranquil approach - old-world charm kitchen by Lee Woodall

Creating a new kitchen in a house with an understated architectural style comes with a double agenda. On the one hand the design needs to respond directly to the architecture, while on the other, it needs to offer a sense of individual interest.

The owner of this kitchen had fallen in love with a large residence in her area, even as it was being completed. She approached the builder on site and soon after, the house became her home. Designer Lee Woodall was asked to transform the existing kitchen to be more in keeping with its refined surroundings.

"We wanted a simple, peaceful look that would allow the beautiful coffered ceiling and garden views to draw the eye," says Woodall. "I selected flat-panel cabinets and set most of them under counter to avoid blocking the windows."

Detailing is generally restrained legs on the island are turned but not overly ornate, and perimeter countertops have a slender profile. However, within this quiet setting there are stand-out elements, some chosen by the owner.

"For example, we put in a more substantial, seamless hood," says Woodall. "Its curves echo the archways seen elsewhere in the house."

The silver travertine countertop on the island is another feature of the expansive kitchen.

"This marble is a show stopper. Everyone seeing it for the first time is wowed by it. It has a timeless quality, too this was an important component of all the decisions we made."

The color of the stone also led other areas of the design, such as the choice of the distinctive woven backsplash on the walls of the kitchen area, which helps to define it.

"The travertine backsplash has a metal rod detailing worked into the surface creating what looks like a woven texture. This unusual surface co-ordinates with the island countertop and continues the light feel of the greater space."

Symmetry plays an important part in the aesthetic appeal, says Woodall.

"There are dishwashers to the left and right of the prep sink and the entire cleanup area is stepped out. The adjacent island is the same length as this expanded area."

A restrained approach and subtle features have resulted in a refined transitional kitchen.

Story by: Charles Moxham