Originally, this Austin home featured a traditional Texas-style kitchen – defined by cherry-stained cabinetry and extensive limestone detailing. While the architecture leaned classic, the homeowners were drawn to a more modern aesthetic and wanted the kitchen to better reflect their personal style.
Owner and principal designer Christina Cruz of Austin-based Christina Cruz Interiors recognized the design challenge hinged on striking the right balance. Introducing cleaner lines and updated finishes without disrupting the home’s existing character was a priority. The result is a renovated space that feels fresh and modern, yet still cohesive with the architectural language of the home.
Mediating the Modern Kitchen
The home is perched along a beautiful greenbelt, with expansive views of nature and oak trees visible throughout the main living spaces. Cruz said, “We approached the color and material palette as an extension of the landscape, bringing the outdoors in to soften the architecture’s clean lines.”
The base cabinetry’s rich olive green was selected to echo the surrounding greenery and create depth, while natural walnut introduced warmth and organic contrast. Paired with iron hardware, the combination strikes a refined balance, modern in silhouette, yet grounded in a natural, timeless material story.
Storage was a key priority in this renovation, especially as traditional upper cabinetry was minimized. To maintain function without sacrificing the clean, modern aesthetic, Cruz incorporated oversized deep-drawer storage for plates, pots and everyday essentials. She also designed two appliance garages to conceal countertop items and keep sightlines streamlined. An oversized cabinet serves as the home’s primary pantry, complete with deep drawers and rollout shelving for easy access and organization. A dedicated coffee bar becomes a feature moment in the modern kitchen, layering multiple materials to make it feel intentional and elevated. With a metal base, stone backsplash and open display elements, it acts as both a functional work station as well as a curated showcase for some of the clients’ most-loved pieces.
Sources
Design: Christina Cruz Interiors Photography: Cate Black Cabinets: A&N Builders Cabinet Hardware: Ashley Norton Cabinet Inserts: Rev-a-Shelf Countertops: Encore Stone Dishwasher: Bosch Faucets: Newport Brass Lighting: Visual Comfort Paint: Sherwin-Williams Range: ZLINE Refrigerator: JennAir Seating: Four Hands Sink: Elkay
