Light Hearted
One thing this kitchen had going for it (that many do not) was ample room to move around--453 square feet of space. Ironically, though, the existing space felt tight and compartmentalized as a result of built walls and stacked cabinets added in a previous renovation. Opening things up was key.
The client wanted a sophisticated look, but assumed the only way to achieve a light kitchen was with white painted cabinets similar to what she’d had before. That is, until kitchen designer Jennifer Gilmer suggested using figured sycamore (a light wood) in a Biedermeier style as an alternative to darker wood species or paint.
Once the walls were removed and plumbing mechanicals were rerouted, the wide open space became a prime candidate for two islands--which now offer tons of counter space for cooking, projects, and social interaction. Floor-to-ceiling pantry units on either side of a large picture window provide extra storage and make up for the reduction in wall cabinetry.