Kitchen of the Week: a Dining Nook for 16 and Turquoise Tile

Unhappy with their humdrum, builder-grade kitchen at Rancho Santa Fe, California, these homeowners needed something that would permit them and their four kids to do what they love most: amuse. Interior designer Kari Arendsen and her staff in Intimate Living Interiors responded by gutting the space, including more storage, installing an extra-large stove for whipping up massive dishes for numerous guests, and producing a customized island that could accommodate everything from prep work into serving. A mirrored wood plank, bold turquoise backsplash and custom dining room add character, while durable materials, such as bleached oak floors and marble counters, will suit this busy family for years to come.

The sink previous location determined the design of the area, as the homeowners needed to avoid moving any pipes. They also wanted to get a very clear view of the backyard when doing dishes.

A French armoire adds storage for mugs and cookware. “it is a refreshing departure from just doing all cupboards,” Arendsen states.

Range: 60-inch Wolf; faucet: Rohl; faucet fixtures: Jalco

Intimate Living Interiors

Turquoise arabesco tile is repeated in the backsplash and the custom made island’s built in pet dining area. The repeating pattern and color produce symmetry and stream without taking away from the clean appearance of the custom white paint walnut cabinetry and bleached oak floors.

The home is part of a development community, also Arendsen wanted to create this new kitchen stand out. The mix of textures — Calacatta marble, arabesco tile and the worn metal of this chandelier — give the kitchen character and depth.

Chandelier: Amarass, Joss and Main

The wooden plank over the stove was found at a reclaimed-wood lawn. Arendsen and her staff screwed a small, unique piece of metal hardware they found in San Francisco into the board.

The formerly tiny dining area that was connected to the kitchen is now a cozy corner and bar area that seats 16 people. The habit tables have removable glass tops so the family can rotate in various design patterns beneath.

The zinc and leather seats were added with the growing youngsters in your mind. Wear and tear over the years will add character to the materials.

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