Case Study

Challenge
Create a fluid workflow in an awkwardly laid-out kitchen where the position of hot-water pipes in the floor (for the home’s radiant heating system) drove every design decision. Bring light and warmth into this darkly furnished room.

Solution
Replace the utilitarian floor tiles with a manufactured “wood tile” that visually warms up the space and accommodates the radiant heating system. Lose the angled peninsula in favor of a large island that features the sink, dishwasher, and additional seating.

Transform the adjacent storage closet into a butler’s pantry that’s easy to access from the kitchen workspace.

Results
With the refrigerator removed from the living-room line of sight and a light, open new layout, this kitchen really pops. We used blue accents in the tile backsplash and on the island cabinets to tie in with the owner’s collection of blue-willow dishes, pottery and framed art.

This bright, airy space now accommodates easy, flowing movement, a functional working triangle, and affords a warm, welcoming space for family and friends to gather.