BlueStar®, the manufacturer of professional-performance kitchen appliances for the home, announces the winners of its 2025 Kitchen Design Contest. With submissions from more than 20 states, six designers – one grand prize winner, and five regional winners – are recognized for their creativity, vision and inspiring kitchen design featuring BlueStar appliances. Judges for this year’s awards include 2024 Regional Winners Mika Frechette and Sarah Jones, and Liz Curry of award-winning architectural and interior design studio Liz Curry Studio.
BlueStar Kitchen Design Contest Winners
This year’s grand prize went to Jenn Feldman, designer and founder of her eponymous Los Angeles-based studio. Honored for her work on “The Darlington Project,” (top) this two-year, full-gut renovation embodies a refined aesthetic that strikes a balance between elegance and functionality. At the heart of the home is the new custom kitchen, anchored by a BlueStar 48” Platinum Series Range and matching Atlas Hood in a rich Chestnut Brown, RAL 8015, that sets the tone for the entire space. Viola marble countertops and backsplash add movement and color, reinforcing the overall palette, while custom millwork, including upper glass-front cabinets, introduces visual lightness, keeping the space feeling open and elegant. Brass hardware and fixtures offer warmth and cohesion, connecting the rich tones of the range to the rest of the kitchen.
“This kitchen is pure timeless elegance that seamlessly integrates classic materials, rich colors, and attention to detail,” notes judge Liz Curry. “The scale of all elements is well proportioned and feels well balanced and inviting, with layout optimized for great function. I really appreciate that the colors of the range and hood are carefully coordinated with the stunning marble, which only enhances the beauty of both elements in the space.”
Additionally, BlueStar® is pleased to announce five regional winners:
Lindsay Woolf – Woolf Architecture, New Orleans. Photo: Casey McMurray Photography. Judge Liz Curry observed, “I love the color drenching of the kitchen and appliances with the same vibrant green. it’s full of life and personality that makes the small scale space feel so powerful.”
Jeffrey Sherman – Sherman Architects, Brooklyn, New York. Photo: Jason Schmidt
Kendra White – Pheasant Hill Designs, Charlotte, North Carolina. Photo: Dustin Peck Photography. Judge Mika Frechette noted, “This is neutral without being boring, modern without being cold. The warm wood tones and metal finishes are perfect.”
Jana Gough – Jana Gough Design, Park City, Utah. Photo: Tressa Stevens. “This kitchen packs a wow and the bold use of green is refreshing. Decidedly old world, yet fresh and fun. The metal finishes and tile are daring and perfect,” said judge Mika Frechette.
Nicole Forina of Tinton Falls, NJ-based Nicole Forina Home is the final regional winner.
“This year’s winning projects reflect the design trends we’ve been seeing,” says Shae Wilder, manager of designer relations at BlueStar. “Color is back and it’s here to stay. Whether it’s bold and becomes the jewel of the kitchen, or a softer hue that complements the overall palette, the white-and-gray kitchen is a thing of the past. Timelessness is once again being defined by color.”
With over a century of offering high-performance appliances in beautiful, customizable designs, BlueStar is proud to recognize the talented designers who create dream kitchens. The annual competition has become a coveted honor celebrating the incredible kitchen projects that incorporate BlueStar professional-style appliances such as ranges, wall ovens, vent hoods, and premium refrigeration for the home. The Grand Prize winner receives BlueStar appliances with up to $20,000 retail value, and regional winners are granted a cookware set retailing between $400-$600.
“We love showcasing designers and the brilliance of their work. Their vision brings our commitment to power, performance, and customization to life in homes every day,” says Wilder.
