Tile Inspired Kitchen Remodel D E S I G N E D B Y M I C H E L E M E R R I T T, N A N D I N A A I K E N P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y S H E L LY M A R S H A L L S C H M I D T
Avid entertainers of both friends and family, my client's desire for a truly functional kitchen was their top priority. With an extensive extended family and many grandchildren close by, the ability to maintain a wellstocked, functional kitchen with plenty of counter space for snack making and project creation and ample storage for appliances was key. The focus of the structural portion of the renovation was to incorporate the adjacent family and living rooms to create a seamless transition while ensuring no one would be left out of any activities. I was given a detailed list of “his and hers” specifics, which attributed to a successful relationship from the start. Our first priority was to really give the entire space not only a functional face lift, but an aesthetic one as well. They also had collected many treasures over the years that they wanted to make sure were prominently displayed. Equally important was to create enough storage for the less visually desirable items to be hidden, yet easily accessible for frequent use. We chose materials and styles that were classic, but with modern appeal, to marry the feel of the adjacent rooms with the new design. The backsplash tile, a beautiful marble mosaic with gold inlay, drove the selections and it in itself gives an elegant nod, serving as both a “show stopper” and a seamless palette. The addition of natural wood in select areas created a kitchen that is the best of both worlds; dressy and casual, perfect for this vibrant and active family.
The tile acted as the inspiration, and functioned as the jewelry of this perfectly coordinated ensemble of a kitchen. N Home
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