This unique townhouse in New Hope had a typical builder's line of stock cabinets and an unimaginative and non-functional cabinet layout. The homeowner wanted me to create something more attractive. A space for him to entertain informally, involving his guests while preparing his vast repertoire of gourmet treats. By placing the six burner cooktop on the granite center island he is able to balance the conversation, a wine glass refill and tend to a simmering pot at the same time, a feat not easily managed in a typical kitchen layout.

An avid collector, it was important that we create areas that not only functioned well but gave him the opportunity to showcase his vast collections. We chose a warm, medium stained wood for the taller appliance and wall cabinets and a darker, blue-green laquer for the painted bases. Lighting patterns are important in every project we undertake but none more so than in this kitchen. The soffit lighting which gently reflects off the beige walls gives the small kitchen needed height and creates a soft atmosphere. The halogen under cabinet lighting is functional for countertop lighting but it also showcases the rare Lennox plates and hand painted tile mural in the backsplash area. Whimsical pewter hardware, hand-carved island corbels and a one-of-a-kind porcelain fish motif mural inserted into the tumbled marble backsplash tiles help to personalize this very unique and inviting space.

---