It’s often said that the kitchen is the center of a home. Here at Douglas VanderHorn Architects, we’re given the opportunity to design custom kitchens for our clients in a variety of styles while incorporating modern technology and conveniences. Today, we’re sharing some of the top kitchen elements most requested from our clients. Here are eight features that our homeowners love to have in their newly designed kitchens:
Custom hoods.
Often our clients desire custom hoods that highlight the style of their home. Seen above is the kitchen of our French Eclectic home project, which combines antique and new elements. The backsplash at the range is an antique piece, while the hood is a custom metalwork invention concealing a modern exhaust.
Integrated appliances.
Another popular request is the incorporation of integrated appliances, which are designed to seamlessly fit into the cabinetry to create a more cohesive look in the kitchen.
Stone countertops and backsplashes.
Our clients also love incorporating stone countertops and backsplashes in their layouts. Pictured above is the kitchen of a bright and beachy home that we designed with sturdy countertops, a dramatic backsplash composed of monolithic marble slabs with elegant gray veining, and blue island cabinetry for a a pop of color that really brings the space to life.
Contrasting islands.
Another popular request is contrasting looks between various elements, such as differing cabinet finishes and countertops. This is exemplified well in the above kitchen, whose design reflects the home’s coastal location along the Long Island Sound.
Large storage pantries.
Many of our clients prioritize having ample kitchen storage space – both as cabinet units, as well as adjacent rooms as pictured above.
Adjacent service pantry.
To house china and crystal, some clients request a butler’s pantry to sit adjacent to their kitchen. Stainless steel countertops and glass upper cabinets, which enhance the blue-lacquered walls and cabinetry, are highlights of the service pantry shown above.
Feature island light fixtures.
The island is often the centerpiece of the kitchen, so not surprisingly, many of our clients appreciate highlighting the space with unique light fixtures above that pull the overarching theme of the room together well.
Above, the wooden beams and rope lighting fixture bring a unique touch and color contrast to the waterfront home’s bright kitchen.
Ample natural light.
Natural light brings great energy to any room, especially the kitchen, the central hub of the home. Many of our clients request large window designs to add an abundance of natural light to their kitchen spaces.
The above pictured kitchen features multiple large windows that face the water, bringing a constant sense of peacefulness and nature that is further accentuated by the beachy, airy design of the room.