Called in to solve a spatial problem that had flummoxed another design firm, NKBA member Chris Druschel of Florida-based S & W Kitchens studied the existing kitchen, looking for a way to smooth out the irregular, chopped-up layout of the room. The goal was to create a streamlined, highly functional chef’s kitchen for the homeowners.
“To go from a kitchen defined by odd angles to one that is orderly and rectilinear was one of the biggest challenges in the project,” said Druschel. “I was able to think outside the box and fulfill all of the clients’ needs and wants; sometimes, it can be tough to accomplish all of that.”
Druschel was able to incorporate some load-bearing columns into the room in such a way that they looked intentional, rather than intrusive. This was the key that unlocked the design.
“Once I was able to make the kitchen into a rectangle and I knew my parameters, I was able to thoughtfully place appliances, cabinets and work zones so that they provided optimal convenience and function.”
Finessing a Chef’s Kitchen
With the footprint resolved, the designer was free to attend to the aesthetics of the space. The clients wanted a traditional and elegant look for their chef’s kitchen. The timeless black and white palette was applied to tile, cabinets, counter surfaces and flooring. Warm metals throughout the space – faucets, cabinet hardware and lighting fixtures – add a luxe touch to the room.
While the realigned layout of the kitchen is the part of the project of which Druschel is most proud, he credits the team from KDK Interior Design with acing the decorative details, including the dramatic light fixtures and the curving splash at the hood.
Sources
Design: Chris Druschel, S & W Kitchens & KDK Interior Design; Builder: Ricchi Homes; Photography: Rickie Agapito AOfotos; Cabinets: Omega Cabinetry; Cabinet Hardware: Top Knobs; Countertops: Dekton; Dishwasher: Cove; Faucets: Brizo; Range: La Cornue; Refrigerator, Wine Cooler: Sub-Zero; Sinks: Blanco; Vent Hood: Best
