Great Kitchen Ideas

Great kitchens 2015

IT’S PERSONAL: YOUR KITCHEN, YOUR WAY

CLICK & PRINT RECIPES

What’s New in Appliances Party Time!

Easy Recipes & Pretty Tabletops

Great kitchens from Traditional Home ANN OMVIG MAINE EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kitchens are the place where great stories are told. Some spill from gatherings of family and friends like tantalizing aromas from simmering pots. Others emerge from the room itself—design touches that make the heart of the home a little more heartfelt, a little more personal. Those stories are what this issue of Great Kitchens is all about.

Maybe you’d like to flaunt your favorite color.

(Pacific Ocean blue, anyone?) Maybe you want a reminder of your favorite travel destination. (Vive la France!) Maybe you need an island big enough to seat all 18 of your extended family and smart enough to keep traffic flowing. Maybe you dream of a space with the looks of a European beauty and the resiliency of an action hero—tough enough to stand up to your kids and the neighbors’ too. Whatever your spin on classic style, whatever your family’s needs, we have ideas to create a kitchen that works for you. Go ahead—tell your story.

Special thanks to Thermador for their support in making Great Kitchens happen.

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GREAT KITCHENS EXECUTIVE EDITOR MARSHA A. RAISCH DESIGN DIRECTOR KEN CARLSON SENIOR ARCHITECTURE EDITOR AMY ELBERT FOOD EDITOR STEPHEN J. EXEL RESEARCH EDITOR JANICE CURRIE SENIOR ARTICLES EDITOR SALLY FINDER WEEPIE ASSOCIATE ARTICLES AND WEB EDITOR JULIANNE HILMES EDITORIAL & ART ART DIRECTOR MICK SCHNEPF MANAGING EDITOR MICHAEL DIVER SENIOR DESIGN AND LIFESTYLE EDITOR JENNY BRADLEY PFEFFER SENIOR STYLE EDITOR KRISSA ROSSBUND SENIOR DESIGN AND MARKETS EDITOR TORI MELLOTT SENIOR ART AND ANTIQUES EDITOR DORIS ATHINEOS MARKETS AND SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR KARI COSTAS ASSOCIATE STYLE EDITOR CLARA HANEBERG ASSISTANT MARKETS EDITOR ASHLEY HOTHAM SENIOR ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR BRENDA CORT SENIOR ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR JOE WYSONG OFFICE COORDINATOR KIM CALLAHAN ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY COORDINATOR CINDY MILLS

BETH MCDONOUGH PUBLISHER

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, MARKETING STACY SHAPIRO FELDMAN ADVERTISING SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER VICTORIA HUBBARD LUXURY GOODS DIRECTOR JILL ESTERMAN HOME FURNISHINGS DIRECTOR LORI SHELDON DIRECT MEDIA ADVERTISING DIRECTOR GRACE CHUNG BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT STEPHANIE BARREZUETA NATIONAL TRAVEL DIRECTOR JODIE BURLOG SCHAFER ADVERTISING BUSINESS MANAGER EDWARD HAYES ATLANTA, SOUTHEAST SUZANNE COOPER, SCOOP MEDIA CHICAGO, MIDWEST AND CANADA DENISE KAISER CHICAGO, MIDWEST AND TEXAS TRACY SZAFARZ DETROIT PAUL MALLON, FOCUS MEDIA & MARKETING LOS ANGELES, WEST COAST KIMBERLY ALLEN SAN FRANCISCO, NW ERIN MERVIS-HOPPE, POPPY MEDIA ASSISTANT TO PUBLISHER SOPHIA THID ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT CHERYL CORBIN MARKETING INTEGRATED MARKETING DIRECTOR AMY SOULE INTEGRATED MARKETING MANAGER SARA ROSSI CREATIVE DIRECTOR, INTEGRATED MARKETING MAUREEN GILLESPIE SENIOR DESIGNER, INTEGRATED MARKETING AMBER WOLFF

Editorial Offices: E-mail us at traditionalhome@meredith.com.

Advertising Offices: Traditional Home, 805 Third Avenue, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10022; call us at 212/557-6600.

EDITORIAL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT MEREDITH CORPORATION 2015.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PUBLISHED IN THE U.S.A.

KITCHENS SHOULD COOK BETTER NOT JUST LOOK BETTER

THE FREEDOM OF PERSONALIZATION

A NEW WORLD OF ENTERTAINING FREEDOM Thermador provides world-class entertainers with The Freedom® Collection— a no-holds-barred approach to personalization. Modular refrigeration columns can stand alone, shoulder-to-shoulder, and even venture forth out of the kitchen. Turn a dining room into a wine room, a nook into a juice bar or an office into a gentleman’s sanctuary. Add in the performance prowess of electronic controls for precise temperature management, and the bonafide entertainer has only one question to ask: Why entertain anything less?

OPTIONS THAT RACK UP An entertainer’s dream comes in two sizes—the 18” or 24” full height wine column from the Freedom Collection. Dual temperature and humidity controls allow for storage of both red and white wines. Full extension exotic wood racks not only make a fitting home for your favorite vintage, they hold a variety of shapes and sizes, including that party in a bottle known as Magnum.

Your wine column also makes a tempting display case for hors d’oeuvres.

Available at a Thermador dealer near you. Visit Thermador.com

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Available at a Thermador dealer near you. Visit thermador.com. ®Swiss Army is a registered trademark of Victorinox AG and its affiliates.

RE-IMAGINE YOUR DREAM KITCHEN Buy any range or any cooktop, plus any wall oven, and we’ll give you a FREE dishwasher. Add selected refrigeration and we’ll now give you the freedom to personalize your kitchen with more FREE products or upgrades than ever before.

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SAVE UP TO $6,097 AND INDULGE IN THE ULTIMATE KITCHEN PERSONALIZATION EXPERIENCE WITH ONE-TWO-FREE® To explore the possibilities, visit THERMADOR.COM/ONE-TWO-FREE *PROMOTION VALID ONLY ON SELECT THERMADOR MODELS. TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE FREE APPLIANCES OFFERED IN THIS PROMOTION, ALL OTHER APPLIANCES MUST BE PURCHASED AT THEIR REGULAR PRICE, IN ONE ORDER, AND AT THE SAME TIME. PRODUCTS MUST BE PURCHASED AND DELIVERED DURING THE PROMOTION PERIOD OF JANUARY 1, 2015 THROUGH DECEMBER 15, 2015. NO SUBSTITUTIONS WILL BE ALLOWED. PLEASE SEE SALES ASSOCIATE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. ©2015 BSH HOME APPLIANCES CORPORATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Contents

Click on a page number & enjoy!

Contributors

10 Designers & Bloggers

Meet the design minds behind these gorgeous, high-function spaces.

Kitchens

Food & Recipes

36 Peaches

Bring a delicious hint of summer to the table any time of day.

16 Character Building

78 Roasted Chicken

Bird is the word for these so-good, so-easy dishes.

builder kitchen some cool new tricks.

Entertaining

Smart design techniques teach a 26 Summer Blues

Waves of blue cabinetry splash a

serene vibe into this seaside kitchen.

40 Supporting Cast

A hardworking space in a glam condo expands its role to welcome family.

50 French Flair

60 Summer Soiree

It’s summer and the party is easy with this playbook for a lovely luncheon from blogger Julie Blanner.

100 Blogs to Watch

Take an entertaining tip or two from some of our favorite online experts.

Old World gets a light new mood in the heart of a Houston home.

68 Old World Elegance

Here’s a classic beauty tough enough to handle four growing boys.

User Guide

82 A Cut Above

See it. Love it. Click it. When you see this symbol on a product that’s calling your name, you’ll know that it’s easily shoppable.

Losing a wall gains this now-sociable kitchen a whole lot of sun and fun.

Function & Design 12 Top 5 Appliance Trends

Check out top designers’ new go-tos.

CLICK

& PRINT RECIPE

Throwing a bash? Click on this icon in our food and entertaining stories for easy-to-print recipes.

94 15 Ways to Make it

Personal

Want a kitchen that shows off your

signature style? Try these no-fail ways to make it happen.

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Contributors Summer Blues

WRITT EN BY K E L LY MORIS PRODU SEAU CED B Y G AY LE SCH PHOTO ADEND GRAPH ORF Y BY E D GOH LICH

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John O’Brien

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A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and former PT-boat skipper, John set sail for a new career when he founded Flagg Coastal Homes, a design-build firm launched to fill a demand for nautically inspired homes in the resort town of Coronado, California.

Kelly Morisseau

By day, Kelly is lead designer at an awardwinning California design-build firm. By night, she hits the blogosphere, keeping her readers up on the latest kitchen and bath trends. She also has two books to her credit: Kelly’s Kitchen Sync, a guide for avoiding kitchen design mistakes, and Kelly’s Kitchen Savvy: Solutions for Partial Kitchen Remodels.

Emily Bourgeois

Architecture has been Emily’s muse since she was a 5-year-old staring out the window on trips to Charleston, South Carolina.

Her design dreams took a detour as she majored in math and art in college.

But they never went away.

At 47, she went back to school, studying color, proportion, and materials at the Prince’s Foundation in London. Now, as the force behind Bourgeoisie, Inc., she’s made beautiful design her business.

girl in St. Louis. The countless hours she spent crafting and baking at her grandmother’s farm led her to a career as first an event planner and now a blogger whose smart food and design advice helps readers celebrate everyday life.

Julie Blanner

A popular lifestyle and entertaining blogger, Julie grew her love for creating beautiful food as a quintessential Midwestern

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Meet our talented contributors—the 10 designers and bloggers who share a passion for beautiful kitchens, great design, good food, and delightful ways to entertain.

Beth Merrell

What do you do when you buy an old house that’s in major need of a new kitchen, but you don’t have the cash to hire out an update? If you’re Beth, you get into the kitchen design business. A former studio artist, she brings an artist’s eye to her work in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area. She also brings a world view: The daughter of military parents, Beth was born in Germany and has called a whole lot of places around the United States and Europe home.

DETAI

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Island Life in this kitchen revolves around multitasking a island. One end has marble top a sink and for the other food prep; is a woodtopped eating spotseating and for the family.

Lighting Eighteenthcentury Veneti and sconce an lanterns s speak to Old World style.

EleOgldaWnocrled WRITT EN BY COURT NEY P CED B RICE Y SAN DRA L PHOTO . MOH LMAN GRAPH N Y BY B RIE W ILLIAM S

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For more design ideas and inspiration, visit the blogs and websites of this creative crew.

Just click on a portrait to take you there now.

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Lynne Kaltman

A passion for color, texture, and fabrics drives Lynne’s interior design work for Bluebell Kitchens. For this selfproclaimed overachiever, the goal is to exceed expectations—for clients and at gigs like the Bucks County Designer House and the Vassar Designer House.

Courtney Price

An interior designer, photographer, and leader in new media, Courtney draws on her New Orleans roots when writing about design (antique to modern), lifestyle, technology, food, and travel.

Peter Cardamone

The creative engine that powers Bluebell Kitchens, Peter doesn’t just recognize quality design, he also can make it happen with his own two hands (and a few fine woodworking tools).

He’s been handy with a saw and router since working his way through college in a unique way—as Philadelphia cabinetmaker Will Hamid’s apprentice.

Before starting his own firm, Peter honed his design skills on retail and restaurant projects with furniture designer Virgil Procaccino’s firm.

Nadia Subaran

“Form always follows function” is Nadia’s mantra. From her Aidan Design firm in Bethesda, Maryland, she creates beautiful, efficient custom kitchens that reflect the owner’s soul.

Victoria Sanchez

A seasoned pro in the Washington, D.C., design scene, Victoria loves to create spaces she refers to as modern traditional: colorful, livable, functional, and beautiful.

In addition to her work for clients, she lends her talents to numerous local showhouses.

Navigation tip: For a shortcut to features, click on the mini layouts.

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W R I T T E N BY R E N E E F R E E M O N M U LV I H I L L

Top 5 Kitchen Appliance Trends WHAT APPLIANCES ARE MUST-HAVE ELEMENTS FOR YOUR KITCHEN? WE ASKED SOME OF OUR FAVORITE KITCHEN DESIGNERS FOR THE LOWDOWN ON TODAY’S BIGGEST TRENDS.

1. Steam/ Convection Ovens

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For health-conscious consumers (and who isn’t these days?), steam ovens offer a number of benefits: they retain more vitamins and minerals, keep foods hydrated, and defrost and reheat food more evenly than microwave ovens (although they’re not quite as fast). Although steam ovens once seemed the domain of veggie lovers, new units that combine both steam and convection make sense for everyone. These combo units take up the same amount of space but allow more cooking options—steaming, roasting, and baking. “I would absolutely recommend a steam/convection oven,” says kitchen designer Karen Williams of St. Charles of New York in NYC. “People are always talking about multitasking, so why not have the benefit of convection too?” Usually available as built-in models, steam/ convection ovens are now also being incorporated into ranges. Although Williams usually installs them as secondary ovens, she says she’s finding that her clients often use them more than their traditional ovens.

2. Wine Storage

Designers are reporting that wine refrigerators are becoming almost commonplace in upscale kitchens.

“People are loving the idea of bringing their wines up from the cellar,” says Nadia Subaran, senior designer and owner of Aidan Design near Washington, D.C. And new combination units, which pair a wine refrigerator with two refrigerator drawers below, offer a great way to incorporate space for both wine and other beverages. “Combination units are really trending now,” Williams says. She often sees them used outside of the main kitchen work zone, such as in butler’s pantries or bar areas designed for entertaining.

Most wine refrigerators feature dual temperature zones for storing both red and white varieties. Some of the better units now feature soft-close doors to reduce vibration, glass doors, and attractive shelves, which allow you to display your finest wines or champagnes with the labels facing out where guests can see them.

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Appliance Trends

3. Induction Cooktops

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Although the technology has been around for a long time, induction cooktops are finally gaining traction in the United States as more consumers learn about their benefits.

“Induction cooking earns high marks in three areas: performance, energy efficiency, and safety,” Subaran says.

“From a performance standpoint, what we love is that we can boil water in 90 seconds and get immediate cooldown.” They’re more energy efficient than gas or electric models—and they’re easy to clean.

They’re also a safe choice because they generate a magnetic field that heats only the pan—not the cooking surface. Paula Greer, a senior designer with Bilotta Kitchens in Mamaroneck, New York, agrees. “They’re preferable if you’re adding a cooking surface in the island where kids might be sitting nearby,” she says. With some models, pots and pans can be placed anywhere on the cooking surface, rather than just on designated burners—adding greater cooking flexibility and room to accommodate large or odd-sized pans.

4. Personalized Cooking Zones

Professional-style ranges with six or eight burners are the central element of many kitchens—but when was the last time you needed all eight burners at one time? Consequently, some consumers are customizing this cooking space by mixing and matching cooking elements. “People can pick what they want and use them together 14 Great kitchens 2015

as one cooking surface,” Greer says.

A gas cooktop might have induction burners for melting butter or boiling water quickly for pasta, a grill, a steamer or deep fryer, or a griddle. The resulting cooking center is a space that better suits the way people cook on a daily basis. “Using these features to customize just makes sense,” Williams says. “Cooking is not ‘one size fits all.’ ”

5. Modular Refrigeration

Gone are the days of the side-by-side, all-in-one refrigerator and freezer.

Today, more modular units—think columns in a variety of widths and drawers—provide greater design flexibility and personalization. “What I love about modular refrigeration is the opportunity to customize and build your own unit based on how you live,” Subaran says. “You might put a refrigerator column in the prep zone, but tuck the less-often-accessed freezer in another area of the kitchen, or in a pantry.” Refrigerator drawers in the island keep produce conveniently near the prep area and make beverages easily accessible to guests, she says, adding that modular units can also be fully integrated (without a visible grill at the top) for a more streamlined look. And, with a decline in the popularity of upper cabinets, designers are finding these modular units extremely handy. “We’re seeing more kitchens where people are going for great vistas, so the ability to work the refrigerator and freezer under the counter is terrific,” Subaran says.

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“The flexibility of freezer columns and refrigerator columns has enhanced the design world like flat screen TVs. I don’t think I could design a kitchen without them at this point.”

—Karen Williams, principal of St. Charles of New York

DETAILS

Rustic elegance Quartzite countertops and vintagelook backsplash tiles complement Shakerstyle gray-stained cabinetry in this newly remodeled kitchen.

Island Centered in the U-shape work zone, a hardworking island packs a lot of storage and prep space. At the same time, casual stools invite gathering for cooking and conversation.

Character

Building W R I T T E N BY A M B E R DAW N BA R Z

PRODUCED BY BARBARA BOTTING

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COURTNEY APPLE

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BEFORE

A LACKLUSTER KITCHEN RE-EMERGES AS A CHARMING FAMILY GATHERING PLACE Coming home to a space that warms your heart and makes spending time with family and friends a celebration is a priceless gift—and a welcome new experience for the owners of this Berks County, Pennsylvania, home. Before a kitchen remodel, a lifeless palette and nondescript builder-grade cabinets offered little in the way of a convivial gathering spot. The irritating floor plan with narrow pathways seemed to put cooks and kids on a collision course. The only personal touch in the room was a collection of Pennsylvania milk glass on shelves above the windows.

“The owners of the home have an affinity for classic styling, and love to cook,” says kitchen designer Peter Cardamone, who teamed with interior designer Lynne Kaltman on the project.

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DETAILS

Backsplash Unglazed terra-cotta tiles help set an informal tone.

Range hood A custom cabinet disguises a high-performance hood.

Lighting Shaded pendants above the island bring style and plenty of illumination for tasks such as food prep.

Wood counter Just a step away from the island, a raised butcherblock counter in rich walnut provides more prep space.

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DETAILS

Dining area The dining table,

which seats up to eight, was custom made to fit the space in front of an existing fireplace.

Gray ladder-back chairs reflect the stone surround’s color and play to the casual farmhouse vibe. The custom buffet replaces a seldomused bar.

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DETAILS

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Sink A classic bridgestyle faucet complements an easy-clean brushed stainless steel sink basin.

Kitchen windows reveal expansive views from the home’s hilltop setting.

Toaster outlet Flushmount outlets were painted in the same design as the backsplash so they virtually disappear.

BEFORE THIS KITCHEN REMODEL, AN IRRITATING FLOOR PLAN WITH NARROW PATHWAYS SEEMED TO PUT COOKS AND KIDS ON A COLLISION COURSE.

BREAKFAST ROOM

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Improved function, better traffic flow, and inspiring design were key goals in this remodel, which includes an updated island, state-of-the-art range, and wider walkways.

“To transform this kitchen into a room where the family wanted to spend time, we had to start by correcting the flow and function issues,” Cardamone says. “We widened the walkways by repositioning the island and recessing the refrigerator. We added cozy seating to one end of a new island and, in the eating area, we replaced a wet bar that was never used with a functional buffet.

But the designers stopped short when it came to the windows, preserving them as a part of the home’s roots. “Even the shelves above them are original,” Kaltman says. “The milk glass collection was one of the few things in the room the owners loved. That gave us a starting point for bringing a sense of history to the space.”

Reclaimed wood ceiling beams give the 1990s

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Personal TOUCHES

DETAILS

Range With two ovens

(one convection), six burners, and a griddle, the range in this kitchen is up for anything.

Buffet Right next to the table, a buffet that replaced a rarely used bar stows dinnerware and offers a spot to set out snacks.

Dining illumination

Installed on a dimmer switch, the 45-inchlong light fixture can be used to create a mood or light up a tabletop project.

Designers Peter Cardamone and Lynne Kaltman brought timeless character to this 1990s kitchen with these artful strategies.

Natural materials Walnut, oak, quartzite, zinc, and nickel lend earthy warmth.

Pieces of the past Mixing old and new—reclaimed wood ceiling beams and a custom-made buffet modeled after a 19thcentury antique—results in an overall vintage feel.

Soft color Muted tones inspire relaxation and create a sense of spaciousness.

These hues are timeless, not trendy.

BEFORE

room a sense of age, blending with rustic Mediterranean-inspired backsplash tiles and graystained Shaker-style cabinets. Black quartzite countertops resemble vintage soapstone, but require less maintenance. The patina of a zincaproned farm sink will grow richer over time.

The designers installed a professional-grade range with two ovens, six burners, and a griddle to replace bulky corner wall ovens—expanding the options for cooking and creating more floor space to streamline the traffic pattern.

A butcher-block counter between the sink and the range serves as the primary food prep

area, with easy access for both cooking and cleanup. On the floor, distressed oak planks that replaced sterile-looking tile bring warmth both here and in the adjacent family room.

The kitchen has become the welcoming center of the home where family and guests linger for conversation at the island seating area and farmhouse table. “The remodeled kitchen tells a whole new story,” Kaltman says. “It appears as though it has been around for a century and meticulously updated with love.”

Designers Peter Cardamone and

Lynne Kaltman, Bluebell Kitchens

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Summer Blues

W R I T T E N BY K E L LY M O R I S S E AU P R O D U C E D BY G AY L E S C H A D E N D O R F PHOTOGRAPHY BY ED GOHLICH

DETAILS

Nook Adjacent to this kitchen’s signature blue cabinetry, airy whites and rich wood tones mingle in the sunny breakfast nook.

A soft, sink-in settee encourages lingering.

Range Here’s a delicious study in contrasts: graceful cast-stone hood meets sleek six-burner cooking power.

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Echoing the blue waves, white sands, and hits of golden sunshine on nearby Coronado Beach, this gem of a California kitchen is perfect for a seaside home.

“When you own a home here, it’s all about basking in the sunshine and enjoying beautiful beaches,” design-build contractor John O’Brien of Flagg Coastal Homes says. “We want to bring that feeling to indoor spaces—including the kitchen—and create a sense of calm bolstered by efficiency.”

This open and airy kitchen does exactly that.

First, there’s the serene Pacific Ocean blue of the perimeter cabinetry. “They generated quite a bit of buzz—and continue to do so,” says the designer. “I’ve used the blue for islands in two kitchens since then.”

The unique cabinetry surrounds a white island capped with counters of marble and wood. Comfortable seating at the island and a breakfast nook brings in sand and driftwood hues.

The look is traditional, with a faint French flair. The sleek, modern amenities, including pro-style appliances, are drool-worthy—sure to please whoever pulls kitchen duty.

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DETAILS

Island Both work zone

and table for two, the island features a beautiful mix of materials: gleaming marble and warm wood.

Island cabinetry A playful diamond pattern on the island’s drawers and doors echoes the floor design. Oil-rubbed hardware meshes with the warm glaze on the painted cabinets.

Personal TOUCHES

Design-build contractor John O’Brien brought bits of the outside into this character-filled kitchen.

Material mix Like an amazing recipe, this kitchen blends signature ingredients into an end result that’s more than the individual parts. The magic is in the mix—cabinet styles and colors, painted finishes and wood stains, stone and marble, earthy bronze and sleek chrome.

Blues basics The antiqued finish on the cabinetry keeps the character; the watery color brings modern verve. Repeating the hue on backsplash tile ensures a cohesive feel.

Pattern play Backsplash tiles are set in a traditional herringbone pattern, while a diamond motif comes into play on the island cabinetry and floor. Graceful corbels on the range hood are in harmony with the shape and scale of the turnedwood legs on the island.

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DETAILS

Sink wall An antiqued finish lends character to blue cabinetry, blending with a traditional apronfront sink. The windowsill keeps fresh herbs within arm’s reach. A bridgestyle faucet in polished chrome marries traditional style and modern glimmer.

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EATING AREA

FLOOR PLAN

An L-shape work zone puts efficiency at the forefront, with plenty of counter space around the range and the main sink and prep sink just steps away. The refrigerator is conveniently positioned near the island and is also easily accessible from the seating areas so family and friends can help themselves to food and beverages.

KITCHEN

R/F

TO BUTLER’S PANTRY

SUN, SAND, AND SURF ARE AT PLAY IN THIS WELCOMING PACIFIC COAST KITCHEN. Amenities include a powerful six-burner range and a quiet stainless steel dishwasher.

Concealed behind blue cabinetry panels, a side-by-side refrigerator/freezer is another kitchen workhorse.

Below a gentle bay window, with a sill that’s home to a handy herb garden and sunny ceramic accessories, a white apron sink and bridge-style faucet suggest an earlier era. But today’s function is evident in the hot-and-cold filtered water dispenser and an air-switch control for the garbage disposal unit.

Grabbing everyone’s attention is the room’s stunning focal point: the range wall. Graceful arches and majestic corbels of a French-style cast-stone hood frame the cooking area, while

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blue limestone subway tiles set in a herringbone pattern anchor the backsplash. Calacatta Gold marble serves as an elegant backsplash around the kitchen perimeter.

On the floors, rough-hewn wood planks are laid in a diamond pattern reminiscent of Versailles parquet flooring but with limestone tiles between the planks. The design is repeated in the island’s cabinet door and drawer style and also in the glass motif in display cabinets.

A playful mix of metals provides a finishing touch—from the stainless steel of the appliances and the oil-rubbed bronze of the prep sink and faucet to the polished chrome of the main kitchen plumbing fixtures and island pendants.

Designer John O’Brien, Flagg Coastal Homes

DETAILS

Butler’s pantry Between

the kitchen and dining room, a built-in pantry and a buffet with decorative glass-door fronts offer plenty of storage—plus more counter space.

Floor Attention to detail shows in the flooring, where rustic, chiseledwalnut strips border smooth, polished limestone.

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DETAILS

Main sink Amenities include a hot-and-cold filtered water dispenser and a flush-to-thecounter air-switch control for the garbage disposal.

Backsplash tile Sandcolored grout frames the sky-blue stone tile.

Cabinet glass Rippled leaded-glass inserts add a sense of history.

Island sink The oilrubbed finishes of the hammered prep sink and traditional-style faucet contrast with the Carrara marble counter.

Refrigerator Locating the refrigerator/freezer outside the main work core keeps it easily accessible from the nearby butler’s pantry.

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JUICY FRUIT

Food

How to Handle a Peach

• When purchasing, check for an intense peach fragrance.

Look for unblemished fruit that yields slightly when pressed.

• Unripened peaches will ripen quickly when placed in a brown paper bag at room temperature. Pierce the bag several times with the tip of a knife.

• Bring peaches to room temperature before using them.

• Grilling peaches adds smoke to the fruit’s natural sugar. Choose firm peaches and leave the skin on. Brush the cut side with canola or grapeseed oil and grill, cut side down, over direct heat (over the charcoal or gas flame) until slightly softened, and grill marks have formed.

Peaches WRITTEN BY STEPHEN EXEL

WHO KNEW THIS VELVETY-SKINNED FRUIT WAS SUCH A KITCHEN WORKHORSE? NO MATTER HOW THEY ARE PREPARED, PEACHES ADD A LUSCIOUS HINT OF SUMMER FROM BREAKFAST TO DINNER.

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RECIPES

1. Grilled Peaches with Honey and Queso Fresco 2. Peach and Graham Cracker Upside-Down Cake 3. Overnight Peaches and Berries French Toast 4. Peach and Blackberry Slaw

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PREPARATION TIPS

The Fuzz Buzz

• Peach skin will toughen when cooked so it’s best to remove it.

• Peel peaches by cutting an X at the base and stem ends and placing the fruit in boiling water for 30 to 45 seconds. Immediately transfer to an ice bath and slip the skin off with your fingers or a paring knife. Repeat the process if neccesary.

• Once peeled, the flesh of a peach can discolor.

Dip peeled peaches in a bowl of water laced with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.

• Pit a peach by slicing around the circumference all the way to the stone and twisting the halves apart. Carefully remove the pit with a knife.

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RECIPES

5. Grilled Peach-andPistachio-Stuffed Lamb Chops 6. Basil Peach Jam with Grilled Cheese Sandwiches 7. Peach-Blueberry Crisp 8. Chicken with Grilled Peaches, Green Beans, and Orzo 9. Ginger Peach Bellini

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Supporting Cast W R I T T E N BY L AC E Y H OWA R D

PRODUCED BY SANDRA L. MOHLMANN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIE WILLIAMS

DETAILS

Island An ingenious leaf connecting two islands folds down for easy traffic flow, up for a casual family dinner. Airy orb chandeliers overhead offset the visual weight of the 12-foot-long expanse of cherrywood and Calacatta Gold marble.

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In decades past, a kitchen knew its place, especially in a penthouse shaped by interior design icon Albert Hadley. “The kitchen’s role was as a supporting room rather than another formal area,” says Emily Bourgeois, a Charlotte, North Carolina, designer. “It couldn’t all be black tie.”

When she was called in to renovate the simple kitchen in this condominium, perched above the city in a modern high rise, it hadn’t been updated since it was installed in 1974—a time when the trend was to separate this work space from other living areas, sometimes with a door in between the rooms. “Now, the family lives in the kitchen,” Bourgeois says, adding that the goal was to make it lighter and prettier, but still very functional.

First she tackled the cabinetry, which provided plenty of storage but didn’t mesh with other elegant, hand-brushed surfaces in the home. “It was important to brush-paint instead of spray to achieve depth of color,” she says.

The result is a rich finish in a soft, creamy hue.

Countertops in Calacatta Gold marble and steel-and-glass doors lend a high-end finish.

But Bourgeois wanted the kitchen to be hardworking too, so she chose practical materials— linoleum on floors and floor-to-ceiling subway tile on walls—sheathing the space in washable surfaces, but staying true to the elegant cream color scheme. She dressed the space even more by installing a tile crown molding, inspired by the tile arches at NYC’s Grand Central Station.

“I felt the moldings would provide just the right

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DETAILS

Island end Scrolling iron

supports accent the cherrywood island.

Flooring Sticking with linoleum, the same material used in the original kitchen, kept the floors flush and seamless, with no telltale signs of a renovation.

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The sink wall occupies the longest leg of a U-shape work zone, adjacent to the cooktop and opposite the wall holding the refrigerator and ovens.

Having the island between the sink and refrigerator is no problem, though, thanks to a drop-leaf in the island.

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PLAYING A HARDWORKING BEHIND-THE-SCENES ROLE IN A PENTHOUSE CONDO, THIS KITCHEN STILL SERVES UP PLENTY OF GLAMOUR balance between glamour and restraint—what we needed to stay in keeping with the original house,” Bourgeois says.

While the original kitchen was actually a series of small rooms, its open plan now gives everyone plenty of breathing room. To make it seem even more spacious, Bourgeois had pipes and ducts above the original nine-foot ceiling moved so she could create a lofty 12-foot height, matching the home’s other rooms.

A 12-foot-long cherry-and-marble island provides a perfect place for family and friends to gather. Sometimes as many as 18 guests pull up there for a celebratory meal; at other times family members share coffee and casual con-

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versation as grandchildren dart through the room. It’s easy to linger: Soft, upholstered bar stools cater to comfort.

The kitchen, Bourgeois believes, is one that reflects the homeowner’s grounded and generous nature and one that the orginal designer would have approved. “The homeowner wanted to retain Hadley’s unique ability to mix grace and grandeur,” she says. “Glamour, although abundant, is offset at every turn with restraint and authenticity.” And what is more authentic than a welcoming kitchen? “When you are invited into someone’s kitchen,” Bourgeois says, “you are invited into their family.”

Designer Emily Bourgeois, Bourgeoisie, Inc.

DETAILS

Cooktop A chunky marble slab

and furniture-style legs give the sleek glass cooktop the proper visual heft for a large kitchen.

Cabinet storage A bank of drawers tucks under the counter where the glass cooktop is installed. “It is on casters and looks like a catering cart that might roll around the room,” says designer Emily Bourgeois, “but it is attached to the wall.”

The homeowner uses the six drawers for the items she needs within reach of the cooktop—spices, oils, vinegars, cooking utensils, pots, and pans.

Tiled inside and out Display niches add interest and utility to the backsplash wall.

Inside the room’s backless steel-and-frosted-glass cabinetry, the tile wall continues.“Since this is a working space, we tiled all the walls, floor to ceiling,” Bourgeois says. “The utilitarian qualities of the tile create a pleasing design detail. They seem to say, ‘Good food comes from here!’

And who doesn’t like that?”

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Personal TOUCHES

DETAILS

Oven wall Above modern

stainless-steel ovens, niches with lighted Plexiglas bottoms let art glass shine.

Refrigerator wall Frosted glass also covers doors to the pantry and a home office. The metal frames echo a sleek refrigerator.

Designer Emily Bourgeois renovated the kitchen of a 1974 condominium penthouse to have a traditional look with modern-day approach that can handle entertaining but still feel welcoming to everyday family living.

Adaptable island A cherry and marble island has room for extended family to pull up a chair, but a cleverly designed 30-inch-wide drop-leaf recesses to clear a path to the refrigerator or divide the expanse into two spots—one for seating, one a work area.

Tiled crown molding Instead of wood, rows of small tile draw the eye up to the top of 12-foot ceilings, crowning subway tile walls and cabinetry in style.

Room for art Built-in niches in the walls above cabinets and the refrigerator are used to display collected pieces that add interest and accent colors to the kitchen’s soft, creamy palette.

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DETAILS

Storage wall Custom steel-

and-frosted-glass doors feel airy yet cloak utilitarian items.

China storage A cabinet near the island stows dishware for gatherings.

Silver drawer A lockable, lined drawer holds precious flatware.

Spice drawer Drawers under the cooktop organize seasonings.

Sitting area One end of the kitchen provides a place for guests to relax and enjoy the view while chatting with the chef.

DETAILS

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French Flair W R I T T E N BY JA N S O U LTS WA L K E R

PRODUCED BY HELEN THOMPSON P H OTO G R A P H Y BY STAC EY B R A N D FO R D

DETAILS

Banquette Kids frequently

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use the banquette, and the faux-leather bench withstands anything they can dish out. Nailhead trim provides visual oomph for grown-ups.

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OLD WORLD DETAILS TAKE ON A LIGHT NEW ATTITUDE IN THIS SOCIABLE KITCHEN

Experience is a fabulous teacher, and after designing four of her own kitchens in the past, Pat Gannon knew, down to the last detail, the look and features she and her husband, Doug, wanted in their new Houston kitchen.

“When I look back at the pages I’ve torn from magazines, there’s no doubt I love a little French flair,” Pat says. “But as much as I want a classic kitchen, I want the look to be clean. So I lightened and relaxed things with an undertone I think of as California casual.”

Above all else, Pat wanted friends and family, including her grandchildren, to feel welcome in the space, so she focused on making seating as comfy and inviting as it is good-looking.

A banquette topped Pat’s wish list. She tucked it into a cozy corner—so irresistible that the grandkids are drawn to it like a card trick.

Adults feel just as welcome, thanks to Pat’s design of a heart-of-the-kitchen island. There’s room for girlfriends or couples to pull up bar stools, creating a conversation zone that doesn’t interfere with Pat’s culinary action.

Playing the role of the room’s centerpiece— and very visible from the adjacent family room—

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DETAILS

Inviting attitude A white and taupe color scheme amplifies natural light streaming in through corner windows, setting a mood that’s warm and welcoming.

Surface solutions Two different counter materials—200-year-old reclaimed wood on the island and durable quartz on perimeter countertops—beautifully blend old with new.

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Plenty of seating just outside the work core and a layout open to the family room makes this kitchen ideal for entertaining.

wine

the island “needed to be very, very special,” Pat says. A countertop of reclaimed 200-year-old French oak meets the challenge, giving the kitchen rich, grounding warmth.

Shaker-style cabinets add to the simple yet sophisticated vibe. “They’re clean with just enough detailing to make them elegant,” Pat says, citing the full-inset drawers and doors, wire mesh inserts, arched toekicks, and subtle satin nickel pulls. Set against a taupe backsplash of crackle-glazed subway tile, the white cabinets feel light and airy even though they’re rich with storage space.

Adding to the room’s function was another of Pat’s must-haves: a pair of ovens. “It can be tricky to find the perfect wall for double ovens,” she says. “I didn’t want them to stand out.” So to

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keep that from happening, she tucked them into a corner by the refrigerator, just steps from the island prep zone—easy to access but out of sightlines from the family room.

As a dramatic finishing touch, Pat had a shapely vent hood custom-crafted from dark zinc to preside over the cooktop. It provides rustic old-world appeal and draws the eye upward to a ceiling dressed in random-width wood planks painted soft gray. Wrought-iron lanterns above the island and nailhead trim on the banquette and island stools echo the hood’s dark, sophisticated hue.

“We just love this kitchen so much—it’s home,” Pat says. “Most of all, we’re really gratified when our friends and family tell us they feel at home here too.”

DETAILS

Refrigerator wall Double

ovens with a warming drawer below team with the refrigerator in a space shared by the television. On the other side of the island, a microwave drawer is tucked under the counter.

Ceiling Random-width wood planks bring unexpected interest overhead.

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Personal TOUCHES

Homeowner Pat Gannon brought a fresh new feel to classic French style in her Houston kitchen.

Historic character Edges on the 200-year-old reclaimed-wood countertop reveal rustic biscuit joinery for a handcrafted, antique look.

Perfect patina A one-ofa-kind range hood, handcrafted from zinc, feels authentically Old World.

Generations of appeal The custom-built banquette bench features nailhead trim as a stylish detail on the nubby flax back. The seat is upholstered in high-grade faux leather for kid-friendly durability.

Signature details Inserting wire mesh into the doors gives the cabinets Country French flair. Stretching them nearly to the ceiling provides prime space for showing off prized pieces behind glass panels.

Range hood Handcrafted from dark zinc, the range hood creates a dramatic focal point against white cabinetry.

Backsplash Handmade taupe subway tiles with a subtle crackle glaze provide a classic backdrop.

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DETAILS

Wet bar A custom-made rectangular sink and wire inserts in cabinet doors distinguish the bar area, equipped with a wine refrigerator and a pair of refrigerator drawers.

Lantern Oversize wrought-iron fixtures above the island bring beauty overhead.

Pot filler A faucet over the cooktop makes life easy on the cook.

Island top Exposed biscuit joinery on slabs of old French oak give a sense of age to the new kitchen.

Sink Crafted of fireclay, the French-made farmhouse sink is a timeless choice.

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Summer Soiree WRITTEN BY JULIE BLANNER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER KRUMHARDT

DETAILS

Go organic Flowers are an

easy and inexpensive way to make any tablescape feel bold and beautiful. Always add something organic to your setting—whether it’s flowers, fresh fruits, or herbs.

Mix it up Blend old with new. Using family heirlooms and estate pieces—like your grandmother’s etchedcrystal stemware or vintage milk glass tumblers—along with your newer dishware creates an intriguing table that will spark conversation.

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ENTERTAINING EXPERT AND LIFESTYLE BLOGGER JULIE BLANNER DISHES UP SOME EASY, NO-FUSS IDEAS FOR A SIMPLY LOVELY SUMMER GATHERING It’s summer! What better reason to celebrate?

Invite your favorite people over for an afternoon of fun for everyone, hostess included. I promise, entertaining really can be easy. Just dip into the bag of tricks I’ve developed as a longtime event planner, blogger, and entertaining enthusiast.

First off, save yourself a whole lot of time and expense by repurposing everyday items and adapting elements you probably already have. I love to use inherited and found items when setting my table. A mix of new and old

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DETAILS

A moving landscape Vary

the heights of elements on your table to give a sense of motion. Bring in color with fresh blooms.

In addition to bouquets, scatter snipped blossoms throughout the setting.

Hold it! Usually the stuff of wintry decorating, spray-painted pinecones add graphic texture as placecard holders.

Drink up! A signature drink is always in season and makes hosting easy.

Keep the pitcher nearby for quick refills.

CLICK EACH RECIPE TO PRINT

MENU Cocktail

Pretty-in-Pink Drink Soup

Green Tea and Honey Cantaloupe Soup EntrĂŠe

Sugar Snap Pea and Berry Salad Dessert

Coconut Cakes with Key Lime Filling

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makes things interesting—and launches some great conversations.

Selecting beautiful basics for your dining room sets a stage that lets your guests—and the food—be the stars. I like this modern white table paired with classic white chairs, perfect for entertaining indoors or out. It’s a blank canvas for developing a memorable table setting.

The recipe for a knockout tablescape is texture, height, color, and organic elements. I typically bring in texture through linens, like these blue-and-cream striped table runners and pink placemats, which—along with flowers and dishware—supply gorgeous color. Pillars and cake stands add varying heights to the scene. Infuse a final punch of personality with thoughtful accents—like the darling tassel napkin rings.

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DETAILS

Setting the scene A white table and chairs create an ideal stage for cheery tableware, colorful linens, and mood-brightening blossoms. Positioning table runners across the width, rather than the length, of the table offers an unexpected element.

Tie one on Ribbons and trims can easily be transformed into interesting adornments— like the tasseled tiebacks used here as napkin rings.

Beautiful basics As with white furnishings, white flatware is also a musthave for its versatility— whether it’s an estate find or brand-new.

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Make your gues special with the tips from Julie B

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DETAILS

Rise to new heights Give your centerpiece height by repurposing a cake stand. It gives the illusion of a substantial centerpiece without the expense. Later, you can set the flowers aside and use it to serve dessert.

Light it up Set the mood with candlelight. Even on a sunny day it will add a glowing ambience and fill in the table.

DETAILS

Island Life in this kitchen

revolves around a multitasking island. One end has a sink and marble top for food prep; the other is a woodtopped seating and eating spot for the family.

Lighting Eighteenthcentury Venetian lanterns and sconces speak to Old World style.

Old World

Elegance WRITTEN BY COURTNEY PRICE

PRODUCED BY SANDRA L. MOHLMANN PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIE WILLIAMS

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A center island that’s part work zone, part gathering spot anchors this family-minded kitchen. The focal-point range wall is just a step away from any of a trio of sinks, while the refrigerator is close to both island seating and the prep space.

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EUROPEAN STYLE MEETS MODERN FAMILY LIVING IN A HIGH-FUNCTION KITCHEN THAT CATERS TO AN ACTIVE FAMILY OF SIX Designing a beautiful kitchen is a challenge in itself. But Beth Merrell’s challenge went even further: Design a kitchen with gorgeous Old World looks that can stand up to a family of six—including four growing boys.

The keys, Merrell says, were plenty of amenities, durable finishes, and a family-friendly floor plan. This kitchen has plenty of everything: side-by-side sinks on the window wall, plus a prep sink in the island; two dishwashers; two pullout trash drawers; a warming drawer; a refrigerator/freezer; and two refrigerator drawers. This means the boys can easily help

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out with the work—or just grab refreshments without getting in the way of meal prep.

In addition to being functional, the layout is also beautiful, reflecting a thoughtful symmetry that visually reins in the size of the room, part of a 1920s Charlotte, North Carolina, home, while offering light-filled elegance and an Old World vibe.

The focal point, visible from the front entry hall, is the magnificent 10-foot-long custom vent hood over the six-burner range. The gas range is flanked by custom spice cabinets and tasteful European sconces hung on a stunning slab of

DETAILS

Window treatments

Roman shades in a pretty floral inject a touch of soft pattern and color into the space.

Rustic finishes A walnut corner cabinet near the sinks was hand-planed for an artisan look.

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DETAILS

Range wall The graceful veining of the Calacatta Gold marble is showcased on the backsplash and the perimeter countertops.

The grand Europeanstyle vent hood wears the same distressed finish as the cabinetry.

Refrigerator/freezer

Antique-look doors, inspired by the front door on designer Beth Merrell’s own historic cottage, turn these bulky appliances into a handsome focal point.

Microwave The island houses an undercounter microwave drawer near the refrigerator.

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Calacatta marble. A warming drawer awaits in the island, within reach of the range, to accommodate everyone’s schedule.

The centerpiece island does its part to promote family togetherness.

One side is outfitted for meal prep, the other for gathering. Durable materials and distressed finishes are Merrell’s secret weapons. “Everything has to be beautiful and function properly,” she says. The wood portion of the island and the casual kitchen dining table near the refrigerator are distressed, and all painted surfaces, including the cabinets, are rubbed to give a patina that can stand up to high use. Even the island bar stools are a forgiving faux leather.

To offset the enormity of the refrigerator/freezer, Merrell encased the appliances in a wood cabinetry. She repeated the look in a corner cabinet and bookshelf for consistency.

Overhead, Merrell met her final— and biggest—challenge: how to create a gorgeous look while accommodating existing structural supports.

The solution? A coffered ceiling, the crowning glory of an elegant room.

Designer Beth Merrell, Donlon &

Merrell Designs

Twin sinks With a family of six, you can always use another sink, like these undermount units centered on the windows.

The finish on the bridgestyle faucets matches the cabinet hardware.

Towel bars A narrow niche with pullout bars gives easy access to dish towels—and helps prevent water spots on the cabinet door.

Personal TOUCHES

Designer Beth Merrell shaped this kitchen with a family in mind, while enveloping the spaces in Old World beauty.

European flair A stunning showpiece vent hood with an antiqued finish that matches the cabinetry makes an stunning visual statement that can be seen from the home’s entry hall.

A sense of history A pair of antique-inspired custom corner cabinets for dishes were scaled and distressed to look like original Southern antiques.

Family ease Extras like multiple sinks and refrigerators, plus durable wood, marble, and fauxleather surfaces make the kitchen welcoming to adults, kids, and guests.

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DETAILS

Butler’s pantry

Entertaining is easy with a butler’s pantry that includes a sink, a wine refrigerator, and a refrigerator under the counter.

Shelves The walnut cabinetry that encloses the refrigerator extends around the corner to form handy shelves for cookbooks.

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RECIPES

1. Herb-Roasted Chicken 2. Creamy Roasted Chicken Noodle Soup

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Roasted Chicken WRITTEN BY STEPHEN EXEL

ROASTED CHICKEN IS LIKELY ONE OF THE MOST SATISFYING—AND EASY—DISHES YOU’LL EVER PREPARE. IT’S ALSO A SPRINGBOARD FOR SO MANY MORE SCRUMPTIOUS MEALS. THESE RECIPES START WITH A SUCCULENTLY HOME-ROASTED BIRD. 78 Great kitchens 2015

CLICK HERE FOR STEP-BY-STEP TRUSSING TIPS

COOKING TIPS

Roasting a Better Bird

• Buy the best poultry possible—organically raised or free-range chickens have a richer, more flavorful taste.

• For super-moist white meat, start your chicken breast-side down at a higher oven temperature, then flip the bird and lower the temperature.

• Use an instant-read thermometer to know when the chicken is done. Thigh meat should register 170°F. • Be patient. Let the finished bird rest 10 to 15 minutes before slicing.

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A MEDIUM-SIZE CHICKEN (ABOUT 3 POUNDS) WILL FEED A FAMILY OF FOUR, WITH ENOUGH LEFTOVERS FOR A SECOND DELICIOUS RECIPE. 80 Great kitchens 2015

F L AVO R T I P S

Chicken ♥-ed!

• For the crispiest skin, rub the bird with butter and generously season the skin with plenty of salt and pepper.

• A rub of dried herbs does wonders for imparting flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some in the cavity as well.

• Fill the cavity with cut onions, halved lemons, crushed garlic cloves, and sprigs of strong herbs.

• Like a little spice? Try incorporating smoked paprika, ground chipotle, or chili powder into your rub.

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3. Mediterranean Chicken Panini 4. Chicken Broccoli Mac ‘n’ Cheese 5. Chicken and Quinoa Salad with Roasted Chiles

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6. Roasted Pepper, Artichoke, and Chicken Pizza

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7. Roasted Chicken Chimichangas

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DETAILS

Peninsula A wall was removed and replaced with a peninsula, opening the kitchen to a family room and creating a place for people to sit and chat with the cook.

Range wall A porcelain slab backsplash mimics the look of Calacatta Gold marble. The easyclean surface has no grout lines.

A Cut Above WRITTEN BY AMY ELBERT

PRODUCED BY EILEEN A. DEYMIER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GORDON BEALL & ANGIE SECKINGER

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Family room The window-

lined family room links the kitchen and a wine room/butler’s pantry (through French doors).

Cherry cabinets with Virginia soapstone tops complement the family room’s palette.

BEFORE

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BEFORE

KNOCKING OUT A CONFINING WALL FREES THIS KITCHEN TO BECOME A SUN-WASHED GATHERING SPACE A window-lined family room next to the kitchen probably seemed like a good idea at the time, but when the addition was built decades ago it turned the kitchen into a veritable cave. Even an ’80s update with white cabinets and stainlesssteel appliances left it dark and unappealing.

Then, in 2014, kitchen designer Nadia Subaran stepped in. Checking out the 1920s-era Colonial home—part of the Washington D.C. Design House—she decided the wall separating the kitchen and family room had to go.

No simple task, however, because the 18-inchthick stone wall (once an exterior wall) was load bearing. Structural engineers specified a 22-foot steel ceiling beam to span the opening and provide support. “The gain was fantastic,” Subaran says. “The kitchen and family room became one space, flooded with light.”

An 8x4-foot peninsula replaces part of the wall and divides the two rooms without stopping sunshine. Seating is on the family-room

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Sink wall Reclaiming a previously walled-over window by the back door brightens the once dark kitchen. The farmhouse sink and cabinets under the window function as a breakfast and snack bar.

The location by the back yard also makes it a handy gardening zone for watering and arranging flowers.

BEFORE

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FLOOR PLAN

Newly opened to a sunny family room, this kitchen has a high-function work core centered on a dual-fuel range. Guests can perch at the peninsula or grab a refreshment from the butler’s pantry—outfitted as a wine bar—and sink into the family room sectional or armchair.

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BUTLER’S PANTRY

side of the peninsula and a prep sink, dishwasher and work space are on the kitchen side.

“That counter creates a great landing zone for people to sit and interact with those in the kitchen. It’s a nice way to transition between the two spaces,” Subaran says. On the wall by the dining peninsula is a docking station for a mobile device that controls the TV, as well as lighting, sound, security, and HVAC systems.

The 20x11-foot kitchen was reconfigured to create a primary work zone anchored by a 48-inch-wide, dual-fuel steam range with a marble-look backsplash that runs from counter to ceiling. The wall is free of upper cabinets so the backsplash can shine. “We wanted a big space so people can see the beautiful movement of the pattern,” Subaran says.

Inspired by the earthy tones of the home’s original limestone walls, Subaran chose cherry cabinets with hefty bar-style hardware and dark gray Virginia soapstone for the countertops.

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Radiators throughout are hidden by decorative screens. In fact, the radiator in the 14x12foot butler’s pantry is the room’s focal point.

Enclosed in navy cabinetry with brass screens and topped with Calacatta Gold marble, it acts as an elegant serving and wine-tasting area.

On the opposite wall, floor-to-ceiling cabinets and two full-height 18-inch-wide wine refrigerators provide symmetry, along with storage for large serving dishes and glassware. “The butler’s pantry is all about entertaining,” Subaran says. “We thought, let’s take this space and show what you could do if your passion is wine.”

Interior designer Victoria Sanchez furnished the family room, creating a comfortable space to watch TV and interact with those sampling wine or working in the kitchen. Wood finishes, chocolate-hued fabrics, and navy accents visually unify all three spaces.

Designer Nadia Subaran, Aidan Design Designer Victoria Sanchez, Victoria at Home

DETAILS

Backsplash Rather than

hang upper cabinets, above the sink, Subaran covered the wall with a marble-look porcelain slab. “We took the backsplash all the way up to give the illusion of a higher ceiling,” the designer says. A “floating” shelf suspended from stainless-steel rods displays glassware.

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Hardware Chunky stainless-steel bar pulls impart a masculine aesthetic to the space.

Storage An oddly configured corner wall near the radiator was put to good use with a narrow-depth cabinet.

Swing-out shelves ease access to corner units.

Narrow pull-out shelves keep seasonings and spices handy.

Personal TOUCHES

Kitchen designer Nadia Subaran and interior designer Victoria Sanchez teamed up to create an inviting cooking and gathering zone in this Washington, D.C., home with plenty of eye-catching amenities.

Wow-worthy wood Cherry cabinets topped by equally rich soapstone bring warmth and ground the now light-filled space.

Metal edge Stainless-steel and brushed-brass surfaces mingle effortlessly, putting a contemporary twist on the traditional space.

Room for wine “Butler’s pantries are like powder rooms,” Subaran says. “You can really go all out.” The designer did just that, turning the pantry space into a wine-lover’s paradise with twin wine refrigerators encased in sophisticated hand-painted navy cabinets. A cabinet/buffet provides the perfect spot to pop a cork and pour while friends gather ’round.

DETAILS

Message center Shallow

cabinets by the back door conceal a bulletin board and key hooks.

“Message center spaces are critical in kitchens, where everything tends to land. If you don’t address that issue, it ends up cluttering counters,” Subaran says.

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DETAILS

Butler’s pantry Calacatta Gold marble mosaic tiles laid in a herringbone pattern, brushed bronze hardware, and an elegant chandelier dress up the spacious pantry and wine room. Painted cabinets enclose two full-height wine cellars near the entrance to the dining room. A hand-applied navy finish has visible brushstrokes that add character. A brass mesh screen conceals a radiator under the large window.

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WRITTEN BY DEBRA STEILEN

15 Ways to Make it

Personal

LIVE IT UP IN A KITCHEN THAT CELEBRATES YOUR SIGNATURE STYLE

1. Show off your collections. Talk about

your captive audience! Lure visitors into lingering with comfy banquette seating, then wait for the oohs and ahhs as they admire prized collectibles positioned on lighted display shelves. This Wedgwood-blue-and-white nook shows off the homeowner’s favorite pieces of pierced creamware.

2. Integrate art into the mix. Shaker-

style cabinets and beaded-board paneling suggest an English country point of view in this kitchen. But it’s the homeowner’s art display that makes this space uniquely hers. Protected from splatters by UV glass, a vintage floral print grounds a constellation of scalloped plates decorated in Delft blue and white.

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3. Imagine what color can do.

Clearly, this homeowner loves bright hues and isn’t afraid to use them—especially in a lakeside home designed for entertaining. A cheery color scheme of Tiffany blue with white, pink, and yellow accents creates a vacation-friendly vibe. Whimsical blue-andyellow lanterns and flouncy skirted chair cushions add personality.

4. Keep electronics at the ready. But

keep them discreet. Like many families, this one believes high-tech gadgets are a must— as long as they don’t clutter an elegantly renovated kitchen.

Three velvet-lined drawers (with outlets in the back) make it possible to charge laptops, phones, and tablets without flashing a tangle of cords.

5. Display your favorite destination. Let your world travels—or even places still

on your bucket list—serve as inspiration for a one-of-a-kind backsplash. Here, a dreamed-of Gallic getaway is revealed through a vintage map of Paris applied to the wall with wallpaper paste and protected by several coats of polyurethane.

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6. Showcase your passions. Just because you’re a

serious cook doesn’t mean you have to work in an austere kitchen—or can’t enjoy other hobbies. So this crafty chef made sure her baking zone features patchworkinspired backsplash tiles, along with a shallow divot in the granite counter to corral eggs. Handy cubbies show off her favorite rolling pins.

7. Let fabric be your guide. Inspired by bright

pomegranate-pattern fabric, a color-loving attorney chose lime-green glass backsplash tiles and hot-pink accents to jazz up her classic white kitchen. Low-key bar stools help connect this splashy space with an adjoining family room that sports her football-fanatic husband’s more masculine point of view.

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8. Go ahead!

Pamper your pets.

Think of this custom-designed hutch as a bow-wow breakfast bar, because it stores everything the pooch—and its owners—need for the most important meal of the day. Fido enjoys a feeding station that’s accessible but not in the way.

And the humans can reach dishes, a coffee-maker, and refrigerator drawers for milk and juice—without taking extra steps.

9. Marry the past and the present.

Don’t give up your dream of a built-in coffeemaker because you want a vintage-look kitchen. Do as this homeowner did: incorporate a plumbed coffee system and a warming drawer for mugs in custom cabinetry that has been painted, glazed, and distressed to simulate age. Family antiques and beams made of reclaimed lumber complete the cover-up.

10. Tell your story with focal-point lighting. Believing that

ornamentation can come from the simplest items, this couple chose chandeliers made from handpatinated steel and dangling pieces of vintage silverware.

Bonus: Unlike a coffered ceiling or custom cabinetry, a lighting fixture can be easily changed when you decide on another style.

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11. Think outside the drawer. And the

cabinet too. Install hardware that adds an exclamation point to the design story you’re trying to tell.

In this kitchen, virtually every cabinet or drawer front features a unique piece of refurbished antique hardware. Not only do these salvaged materials add character, they support the homeowners’ environmentally sensitive building strategy.

12. Luxuriate in island living. Wanting

her kitchen to display a sense of history, an interior designer eschewed run-of-the-mill islands in favor of a 5x20-foot custom cabinet inspired by 18th- and 19th-century English furniture.

Burled-walnut veneers, curved stretchers, and fluted legs deliver a period feel; deep drawers and organizational inserts keep fine china controlled.

13. Get down to details. Despite what you’ve

heard, art doesn’t necessarily have to be displayed at eye level. Go down low—and use an island shelf to showcase collectibles instead of cookbooks. (Secure fragile items to the shelf with removable museum putty to prevent breakage.) This island, by the way, boasts its own artistic accomplishments. The top is crafted from a single slab of Brazilian cherry wood, and custom legs look like they’re wearing stiletto heels.

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14. Frame your windows with freshness. Pretty, natural light can’t do it all—even when

windows reach the ceiling. That’s why a passionate cook, who likes to relax when she gets home from work, dressed up her kitchen with checked silk draperies. The billowing fabric (and the dining area’s sky-blue chair cushions) make the kitchen feel like a breath of fresh air.

15. Rethink. Repurpose. Realize your vision.

You may want your refrigerator to disappear behind a cabinetry panel. But keep an open mind; the biggest appliance in the room doesn’t have to fade away completely. Here, the homeowners adapted exterior door hardware, including the backplate, to use as a refrigerator door handle. Such a hefty handle suits refrigerators or freezers that employ incredible suction to keep doors closed and food fresh. And the graceful shape and polished-nickel finish make the piece look more like statement jewelry than hardware.

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Blogs toWatch!

WRITTEN BY JULIANNE HILMES

CHECK OUT THE SITES OF THESE ENTERTAININGMINDED BLOGGERS TO GET THE CREATIVE JUICES PERCOLATING FOR YOUR NEXT GET-TOGETHER

The Chic

Traditional Home

entertaining contributor Rachel Hollis tackles it all on her lifestyle blog The Chic Site—food, family, and entertaining. Hollis shares ideas suited for crowds of all ages—an Avengers-themed pizza party for the kiddos, a stylish ice bucket for adult beverages. With inspiration for centerpieces or party favors, recipes for a tasty cocktail or healthy family dinner, or ideas on decorating and organizing your home, it seems there’s nothing this busy mother of three can’t do.

L.A.-based Rachel Hollis is also the author of three books, Sweet Girl, Party Girl, and Party Girl’s First Date. Follow her on Instagram @msrachelhollis.

Reluctant Entertainer

“Feast on life” is the motto of Reluctant Entertainer, a blog run by Sandy Coughlin. Her goal? Make food and entertaining as easy and authentic as possible. Rely on Reluctant Entertainer for recipes, entertaining ideas, and tips on canning. While you’re there, check out the section “Dinner Party Menus” for reviews of Coughlin’s own fêtes, complete with recipe links to create a full themed menu. With a heavy emphasis on hospitality, her ideas are sure to make your guests feel right at home.

Ce

Sandy Coughlin is a reluctant entertainer based in southern Oregon. Find more of her food and entertaining photos on Instagram @sandycoughlinre.

Pay a visit and you’ll home ente broken do even color appropria a helpful s Whether i Father’s D homemad this blogg

Amy Atlas lives in New York City. Order her book, Sweet Designs: Bake It, Craft It, Style It, on Amazon or follow her on Instagram @amyatlas.

Sweet Designs

On

the Sweet Designs blog by Amy Atlas of Amy Atlas Events you’ll find photos of gorgeous, color-coordinated events and immaculate dessert bars aplenty.

While picture-perfect dessert tables are Atlas’s specialty, there’s more to the blog than meets the sweet tooth. Fun party theme ideas will get your creative juices flowing, and quick reviews of color and pattern trends blend the intersections of fashion, interiors, and entertaining.

Cassandra Lavalle is based in Seattle.

Join her more than 21,000 followers on Instagram by following @casslavalle.

Sugar and Charm

elebrations at Home

t to the Celebrations at Home blog find a variety of stylish designs for ertaining. Chris Nease’s ideas are own by season, special occasion, and r, making it easy to find something ate for your next celebration, including section on party design basics. it’s an artfully arranged tabletop for a Day dinner, a recipe for creamy de ice cream, or fun little DIY projects, ger has it all covered.

Coco+Kelley

A distinct point of view is found in all of the fashion, interiors, and entertaining posts on Coco+Kelley, a design and lifestyle site founded by Cassandra Lavalle. Follow along as she discusses stylish interiors, shares how to get the look with the latest fashion trend, or provides the recipe for a delightful cocktail creation. Tabletop how-tos and product inspiration are all served up with a strong focus on design and exquisite taste.

Editor, stylist, and entertaining expert Chris Nease lives in Richmond, Virginia.

Follow her on instagram @celebrationsathome.

For a daily dose of pretty, colorful snapshots, follow L.A.-based Eden Passante on Instagram @sugarandcharm.

Sugar and Charm is a blog as sweet as it sounds. What started as a passion project for Eden Passante— who comes from a background in home economics—has turned into a booming lifestyle blog. Here, posts on travel, entertaining, and home decor mingle with fab DIY projects and must-make recipes. The site is overflowing with inspiring ideas and an awesome (if not dangerous) “buy now” feature for some of the blog’s most charming products.

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