With this first column of the year, I thought I’d share with you four of my favorite design projects from 2019, and what I like most about them. They all came out beautifully, capturing the needs and wants of the clients, and each space has its own unique personality. Perhaps they will inspire you for your own projects in 2020.
Sleek and Modern Master Bath
What I love about it:
- The contrast of colors and textures: Note the smooth, polished white countertops contrasted with almost-black wood grain on the vanity cabinet. Also note the embossed wavy, linear pattern in the white shower wall tiles, contrasted with the randomness of the black pebbles on the shower pan and backsplash. Strong horizontal and vertical lines are softened by the round mirror, and wavy curved lines in the tile.
- The clean, minimalistic aesthetic: Contemporary design tends toward minimal ornamentation, thus the slab-front cabinet doors and drawers and sleek countertop. The custom-designed vanity, featuring six good-size drawers, will help keep visual clutter to a minimum.
- The pop of red: I could have used just about any accent color in this bath, given the black and white backdrop. But I chose red, for a burst of energy and fun.
Soft and Pretty Guest Bath
What I love about it:
- Great use of space: The original bath had an old, shallow tub, and a very dark and claustrophobic separate shower stall. To remedy this situation, we turned the tub area into a large walk-in shower, and converted the former shower into a spacious linen closet. The result is a very open, functional, light and bright new bath that meets everyone’s needs.
- The color scheme: My favorite color is blue, and I’m always happy when I can incorporate it into a design. I love the combination of the soft blue walls, the blue mosaic accent tiles, and all the crisp white and gray. It’s a very peaceful bathroom to walk into.
Large and Open Kitchen
What I love about it:
Expansive new layout: This kitchen started out as a small U-shaped kitchen, with minimal counter space and storage. By eliminating the peninsula and using the entire length of the walls, we were able to greatly expand the storage capacity and workspaces. Two cooks can easily and comfortably work in this kitchen now.
The color scheme: The dark gray lower cabinets provide an unexpected pop of rich color to the kitchen, and the crisp white upper cabinets keep it light and bright. The tile backsplash very successfully ties the two colors together. And the warm wood tones on the floor prevent all those grays from looking cold.
Warm and Welcoming Kitchen
What I love about it:
Great use of space: Removing two walls and creating a new entrance from the front door made all the difference in the world. It enabled us to add a huge new island, and increase the storage and workspace. And the best part is that this new design looks like it was meant to be this way all along. It blends seamlessly with the adjacent rooms, and provides a spacious, yet welcoming, space for family and friends.
The materials and colors: I love the beautiful wood grain on those gorgeous cherry cabinets! (Also note the matching cherry pantry door.) Paired with the cream, rust and reds present in the counters, backsplash and walls (and even the front door), this warm color palette creates a very inviting ambiance.
