kitchen

Kitchen Love!

A modern cottage style galley kitchen in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Working within constraints broadens possibilities. A smaller kitchen can still be divided into areas intended for multiple use.

Here are some considerations.

  • Think like Marie Kondo. Keep only the items that spark joy, or is used often and frequently.

  • Keep the design simple and efficient.

  • Absolutely choose happy cabinet colors! Limit yourself to one fun cabinet color for all cabinets and one natural wood color as a contrast tone for built-in features.

  • Most of us only use about 36”-48” of counterspace on the left and right side of the sink for food prep.

  • The end of a galley kitchen, could be an opportunity to celebrate a special feature — a lovely breakfast nook.

  • Don’t feel like you need to spend too much on accessories. We added decorative details with a fantastic sentimental sculpture made by my clients’ daughter, and inexpensive framed wall art and accessories collected from Target and World Market!

CABINETRY - hardware

Measure twice, cut once. As we begin our search for hardware for a new project in Carmel Valley, we're thinking about mixing hardware styles, finish, sizes and confirming the number of pieces we'll need. 

We like to first lay out hardware locations and sizes on drawings. But even with the best plans, we always recommend physically holding up hardware samples to the cabinets to confirm finish, size and its final placement for the perfect look.

Check out more photos from our Fairmount Project here.


SAVVY DESIGNER TIP: 

Our San Francisco clients saved money by reusing their high-end stainless knobs from the old kitchen. The cost of hardware quickly adds up, so it's worth looking for companion hardware pieces to compliment your existing collection.