For this storage-packed kitchen in a new-build beach home in Anna Maria, Fla., designer Laura Freeman of Atlanta-based Merits Design Group had an unusual amount of insight into the program needs; she and her family were the clients.
While she envisioned an open, airy, simple but highly functional space conducive to entertaining guests but cozy enough for a couple, it would prove to be an exacting design project.
Because the city has strict FAR (Floor Area Ratio) mandates, getting everything the family wanted into the floor plan was a challenge. Freeman said, “I felt built-ins would maximize space and keep the vibe simple and easy going. I had a sketchbook where I would draw out my vision and then transfer it to a 3D modeling program and share it with the builder and carpenters. When the kitchen was framed, it felt dark, so I added to the two windows on either side of the range, which required we remove the upper cabinets there and use open shelving.”
The initial plan had a large wall with base cabinets and open shelving above separating the kitchen from the banquette area. It was interesting architecturally, but it wasn’t inviting. Opening it up to have the coffee/wine bar face outward was the answer, which also allowed a walk-in pantry to be hidden behind it. Freeman started sketching many different floor plans, then elevations, to decide how to use this space. Again, once it was framed and she had a chance to walk through the space, she had a revelation: it was the perfect place for built-in seating.
Tackling her first custom banquette design, Freeman researched comfortable heights and depths and generated three variations of the piece in her 3D modeling program. After selecting one, she benefitted from expert advice in the field. “My finish carpenters had some great questions that led to some small adjustments when we built it. I love how it seamlessly wraps into the kitchen desk area. We call it ‘The Lounge,’ because it feels like a cool coffee shop,” said the designer. “From there, it was easy to get my vision for the connecting desk area in my modeling program and customize it for our storage needs.”
The kitchen is all about specialized storage and keeping items off the counter. There’s a hidden drawer for paper towels, knives, the microwave and storage on either side of the range for tools and oils. The open shelving on either side of the hood is aesthetically balanced and super functional making it easy to grab a plate or glass. Every inch was optimally utilized. “I needed space on the side of the refrigerator to open its thick French door, so instead of just incorporating a solid wall or cabinet filler, I installed shelves and turned it into a perfect place for cookbooks,” said Freeman.
—By Leslie Clagett, KBB managing editor
