1 CONTEMPORARY CHARACTER
Swap out standard-size windows for paned sliders that retract into pockets behind your stove, opening the kitchen to your backyard for an indoor/outdoor connection. Here, the black steel frames on the sliders, selected to complement the island’s dark surface, are repeated on the pantry door (not pictured). Continuing the steel frames through to your pantry door draws your space together.
ORGANIC BEAUTY
Thoughtful use of natural textures and tones can yield a neutral kitchen that’s anything but boring. Beautiful marble, black, white and all the shades in between add up to a striking kitchen.
2 ISLAND INTEREST
To add drama to a misty black granite-topped island, exaggerate the ends so they angle in to give the illusion of a big, chunky piece of rock. When coupled with the island’s slatted oak base, texture and visual interest is intensified making your island a standout feature.
3 IN VEIN
As a counterpoint to a dark, sturdy island, work with heavily veined white marble for your perimeter countertops, splashback and rangehood. Marble is porous, so it’s best for areas that get less use. As an alternative, consider durable, easy-clean quartz lookalikes.
4 COVER STORY
Decided on a custom-built kitchen? Go one step further with custom-designed cabinet fronts. Here, modified Shaker-style lower units sport bronze pulls and their upper slatted counterparts feature barely noticeable pulls for a minimalist look. Note the harmony between the ceiling’s oak beams and the cabinetry which visually lowers the soaring ceiling and
