Soon after purchasing a 20-year-old custom colonial home in a Washington, D.C., suburb, a couple turned their attention to a whole-house renovation. They wanted to modernize the traditional interior to one that better suited their taste and lifestyle while accommodating the three generations living together, and the kitchen was an important aspect of the project.
In their previous home, the family had enjoyed a Snaidero kitchen, and replicating that quality and function was an easy decision. The homeowners headed to the Snaidero DC Metro showroom in Alexandria, Va., and explored the new styles. Driven by aesthetics, they knew working with the Italian brand would automatically offer environmental benefits for years to come.
“The primary goal was to create a kitchen that not only looks beautiful but would also adapt to the family’s needs now and into the future,” said Shawna Dillon, principal, Snaidero DC Metro.
Reducing & Reusing
The initial kitchen space was generous, but the style and layout did not reflect the family. Starting by paring back, Dillon removed ornamentation and millwork around the windows, which eliminated a sense of heaviness and increased the amount of natural light. These changes allowed her to incorporate the dark, moody palette the clients had chosen. However, she decided to keep the crown molding to maintain the architectural character of the home and found a way to ensure it did not weigh down the space.
“Leaving a gap above the cabinetry helped preserve the room’s proportions and gave the kitchen a lighter, more open feel,” said the designer.
Several existing high-quality appliances were reused, reducing waste. To avoid moving utilities, the appliances stayed in the same general location, while other appliances were added to fit the family’s needs.
Conscious Manufacturing
In addition to providing this kitchen with a good ergonomic layout featuring plenty of storage and hiding places for small appliances and clutter, the choice of Snaidero LEED-certified cabinets delivered automatic sustainability benefits. The “Green by Design” company has long focused on sustainability from the manufacturing process to the materials used, such as those with emissions less than half the E1 standard and water-based, non-toxic paints.
Knowing her clients wanted a natural product for surfaces, Dillon sent them home with a piece of quartzite the showroom had on hand with the mission to do their best to destroy it. When they were unsuccessful, it got the green light, and Dillion used the durable material for the countertops and backsplash.
“The overall design is intentionally classic and non-toxic to help avoid the need for frequent updates or renovations, promoting longevity and reducing environmental strain,” said the designer.
The refrigerator has an air purification system to keep food fresh longer, and heavy-duty ventilation sits above the gas cooktop. LED lighting was used throughout the space for energy efficiency.
With its large island, wide passages and significant storage, the revamped kitchen feels open and light despite its shadowy palette. It’s a space that can handle a lot of action but is also quiet and elegant – a workhorse that looks like a showroom.
“If you are working with the right product, sustainability isn’t a choice, it’s just natural,” said Dillon. “It’s important to use products made by companies that are making sustainability a priority.”
Since the 20th century, Snaidero has continued to introduce new finishes that are more eco-friendly, made with materials like organically grown plants and even recycled plastic.
“Most clients come to us because of that,” said Dillon. “They are savvy, and they expect it.”
Sources
Designer: Shawna Dillon, Snaidero DC Metro Photographer: Studio Trejo Appliance Pulls: Top Knobs Backsplash & Countertops: Belvedere Quartzite Bar Stools: DWR Cabinets: Snaidero Cooktop & Wall Ovens: Wolf Dishwashers: Bosch Faucets & Pot Filler: Dornbracht Hood: AK Metal Fabricators Inc. Microwave & Steam Oven: Miele Refrigerator: Sub-Zero Sinks: Franke
