A WARM TRANSFORMATION

NATURAL WOODS AND GOLD ACCENTS WARM UP THE WHITE KITCHEN.

WRITTEN BY BRANDY WOODS SNOW

While all-white kitchens may not be considered on-trend right now, they are a classic that will never go out of style. And with a few adjustments—from minor additions to more complex renovations—homeowners can easily impart elements of warmth and texture to cozy up even the most austere spaces.

“Monochromatic white kitchens illustrate timeless elegance but can feel sterile,” says Karen Kettler, owner of Karen Kettler Design. “Carefully adding a balance of natural wood and gold accents provides warmth that creates a luxe, livable space.”

The addition of select wooden elements and the infusion of warm gold can transform a kitchen into an inviting place that encourages family and friends to linger. The organic, outdoors-in vibe of wood expertly balances the starkness of a white kitchen, creating harmony that makes a space both airy and cozy. Teeming with natural and unique character, wood can be easily integrated in various ways: cabinetry, countertops, flooring, ceiling beams, furniture, open shelving, and accessories. Homeowners can showcase wooden focal pieces by selecting

“THE HOUSE TELLS YOU WHAT IT NEEDS. THE REST EVOLVES.”

—KAREN KETTLER

interesting grain patterns and including woven baskets and accessories that incorporate a variety of textures.

Adding pops of gold is another way to warm an otherwise monotone space while imparting a bit of glam that complements the sleek whites and organic woods in the room. Updated knobs and pulls, new pendant lighting, upgraded plumbing fixtures, and a specially curated mix of gold-toned accessories will strike the perfect balance.

“The visual allure of mixing wood and gold accents is to strategically repeat the finishes, so the space feels perfectly detailed and interesting,” Kettler says.

When a homeowner and fellow interior designer approached Kettler about working together on a kitchen redesign, she jumped at the opportunity for collaboration. Says Kettler, “We began with an assessment of the overall layout, determining how we could improve the flow between the kitchen and living room as well as make the space a true heart of the home. The result is a crisp yet cozy space like none other.”

The original arched opening between the kitchen and living room that disconnected the two spaces was removed, allowing for the installation of a large island in a rich nut-brown wood with Taj Mahal quartzite countertops from AGM Imports that were fabricated by The Marble & Stone Shop. The sharp contrast in hues adds drama and interest to the space and becomes an anchor point for the design—one that is repeated in the range hood and within a few selected accessories. The white cabinetry from Touchstone Fine Cabinetry was paired with hand-finished cast bronze hardware from Top Knobs. The warm-toned pulls and knobs add a flourish of sophistication and luxe to the sleek cabinets and earthy wood accents, creating a comprehensive design that feels elegant yet comfortable.

Kettler says there are numerous ways to combine the look of a white kitchen with natural woods and warm golds to fit any aesthetic, depending upon the home’s unique personality. “I like the finished product to reflect the homeowner’s tastes and style of the home. The house tells you what it needs. The rest evolves.” u

For more information, contact KAREN KETTLER DESIGN at 704-517-8338 or visit KARENKETTLERDESIGN.COM.

LUCY BUTLER LEIGH C. CORSO CAY CRAIG REBA HATFIELD LINDA HENLEY

THE HUNEYCUTT TEAM

SARA ROCHE TEAM CHIP JETTON

LISA RUPP BECKY MCGRATH TEAM

THE TUCK TEAM

HEATHER MONTGOMERY

KAREN WAGNER LINDSAY REDFERN

LISA WARREN

Built on a foundation of integrity and trust, Cottingham Chalk has a long history of serving the Charlotte community. From the beginning, our focus has been on the people. Now, in our second generation of leadership, we are a family business more than ever. And when you hire a Cottingham Chalk broker, you can rest assured that you have the entire company in your corner.