Waste Not, Want Not (continued)
Stay true to the way you live
Because the kitchen is a hub of constant activity, it's essential that form and function mesh gracefully—especially when it's a small space. The secret to this kitchen's success is in the balance struck between these two elements.
• Kids, Canines and Their Stuff: Concealed storage in the banquette—drawers pull out from under the benches—was originally conceived as a place to put toys and games, but also hold linens and other essentials. Set close to the floor, they are easy for kids to access and operate. In the base of the peninsula, a cupboard space has been customized as a gated pet den, where the family dogs can rest undisturbed without being underfoot.
• Make Every Square Inch Count: By focusing on the smallest details, these homeowners maxed out their kitchen's storage potential. Rollout tray pantries provide more storage than traditional cabinetry with fixed shelves. A towel rack is slipped into a three-inch opening.
• Invest in the Best: Top quality, durable materials may cost more upfront, but over time you'll reap the benefits of not having to replace them due to wear. The cabinets in this kitchen are quarter-sawn oak. Soapstone is used for the counters. It's easily worked, which allows indulgence in such niceties as integral drainboards and rounded edges.
Horan played with light to create the illusion of a larger, brighter space. Above the peninsula floats a cabinet for crystal storage; its glass-paneled side and front doors create a dazzling light effect when light flows through it. Crown molding, installed just below the ceiling, casts a tiny shadow and makes ceilings seem higher than they are. Recessed can lights keep the ceiling uncluttered, and put light where it's needed most.
Once all the major components were in place, Horan circled back to zero in on every possible inch of remaining storage space, no matter how seemingly insignificant. Around a nonremovable pipe that ran up to the second floor, two cabinets were customized with a lazy Susan. To keep spices and oils nearby, can storage was tucked in next to the range. A deeperthan-normal tray was added to the bottom of the pantry cabinet, to hold bags of dog food and small electrics. Above the counter went the microwave, freeing up open display space. Even the breakfast nook, formerly a large closet, added organization to the menu: beneath its banquette seats are pullout drawers for linens, beverages, glassware and toys.
The renovation was completed on schedule—prior to the arrival of the couple's new son—and achieved their goals, according to the satisfied homeowners. "Now the kitchen makes sense and everything flows," says Gina. "We're totally content and never want to leave this house."
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