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!

Color, Pattern, Texture!

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I love what I do because my clients invite me into their personal spaces and are willing to unabashedly explore their lifestyle and passions.

The most challenging part of this project was finding balance between refined geometric forms, pattern, color, and texture. Balance usually evolves organically and, like most creative types, I am inexplicably guided by intuition.

Thank you Sonal for allowing me to help you make your home unique and unconditionally yours. The goal for every project is to unleash my clients from reproducing a Pinterest image.

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Color Theory. Theoretical balance with color, achieved with application of (5) analogous hues and one (1) split compliment.

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Click here to see more images of this finished Pasadera home...

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SAVVY DESIGNER TIP: 

I often have clients obsessed with choosing pieces and finishes because they are in search of an exact "match". As a designer, I always suggest making selections that are seemingly off. These choices will always add a bit of excitement and tension that will intrigue your sensory experience. 

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CABINETRY - hardware

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Manzoni Stainless Steel Pull

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.

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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.

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