Sometimes a client comes to us with such a strong vision our role becomes more of a guide to shape and execute that vision so it works for their home. Enter this inspiration image from the Hoxton, a boutique hotel in Paris, which was the starting brief brought to us by our North Shore client for her kitchen renovation.
The Hoxton Hotel in Paris inspired the design of this kitchen.
Needless to say we were super excited about the warm wood, glamorous lighting, historic vibe and pops of color – the challenge was to bring that into reality with the standard constraints of budget, architecture and function.
A peek into the messy middle of the process.
Another “during” shot.
Now, when one is leaving “white kitchen land,” it’s important to commit and go with gusto into the brave new world:). Diluting a palette ends up with a space that doesn’t have a strong enough personality but isn’t neutral enough to recede either.
Houston, we’ve left white kitchen land. Photo credit: Kristi Hughes Photography.
A banquette, table and chairs fit perfectly into this spot between doors. Photo credit: Kristi Hughes Photography.
To that end, we went bold with gorgeous blue tile and cabinets, warm walnut and the prettiest wallpaper to set the tone. A few highlights to note:
That uniquely shaped island - This kitchen is long and narrow and given the entrances and exits to other parts of the home and the backyard, it was going to stay that way. By keeping the seating end the island in a furniture style and tapering the width, we netted the family good prep space, a second sink and seating. The stunning quartzite is like a piece of art.
The island accommodates prep space, a second sink and seating. Photo credit: Kristi Hughes Photography.
Nailing the layout - Keeping the bulk of the appliances on one long wall allowed the opposite side to get a larger window with no upper cabinets – keeping an airy, spacious feeling and allowing that killer alcove range to be the star of the show.
A rendering of the “appliance wall.”
Most of the appliances are located along this wall. Photo credit: Kristi Hughes Photography.
A rendering of the “window wall.”
Preserving this natural light was important. Photo credit: Kristi Hughes Photography.
Pattern and color - These were used to bring the whimsy of the original inspiration image. Mustard, blue, teal and red all play together for a vibrant feel and the mix of pattern in the wallpaper, lamp shades and herringbone floor let you know this is a special kitchen. I’m somewhat obsessed with that pendant over the table – look at all the amazing designs!
That herringbone floor! Photo credit: Kristi Hughes Photography.
And that pendant! Photo credit: Kristi Hughes Photography.