Open Contemporary Kitchen by Terri Schmidt

2011 NKBA Design Competition - Open Plan Kitchen: Second Place

This project began with the brilliant beginnings of the honest architecture and style so inherent to the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright. The empty-nester homeowners wanted a kitchen in-keeping with this prevailing theme, and one that would accommodate the entertaining they enjoyed. The designer incorporated mahogany cabinets with strong heavy horizontal lines, granite countertops coupled with mahogany tops on accent pieces, and bamboo cabinets on the perimeter island for contrast. Varying heights in surfaces continue a layered and horizontal visual appeal. Single ovens are side-by-side and elevated, as an L-shaped counterbalance to the L cooking island. A walk-in pantry with double sliding doors supports daily needs and smaller groups, as well as larger catered events. Multiple seating and dining options provide various social vignettes, and a wrap-around wet bar complete the scene as a guest-friendly space with a strong sense-of-self in its origin.

Co-designers: Linda Eberle, CKD, CBD and Keven Schmidt