La Jolla 12
OBJECTIVE—
These clients had worked with us in the past on a media wall for their family room and now wanted an updated and spacious kitchen that would be more fitting for their family and lifestyle. They wanted a kitchen that would fit multiple cooks and allow space to entertain their family and friends. In addition to functional appliances and plenty of storage space, they also wanted the finishes to coordinate with the beautiful seascape views of La Jolla from their home.
THE CHALLENGE—
The original U-shaped kitchen did not allow for multiple cooks to work together and did not have sufficient storage space. It was also difficult for family and friends to gather around in the kitchen to just talk or to share a simple meal with one another. Everything—the existing cabinetry, appliances, finishes, lighting, and flooring—was replaced, giving the existing kitchen a second chance to make the clients’ dream come true.
THE SOLUTION—
The challenges were met by creating a floor plan that provides multiple work areas for prepping, cooking, cleaning, storage, entertaining, and gathering. The 42″ walkway around the kitchen island allows for multiple cooks. The U-shaped kitchen was converted into an open kitchen with a multilevel island, allowing the family of four to sit together and eat breakfast in the morning or for guests to gather while meals are being prepared. The island houses a beverage center, a microwave drawer, a prep area, and additional storage for tableware. Two Dacor 30″ electric ovens flank the sides of a 48″ cooktop with a custom stainless steel hood that overlooks three additional appliances. A freezer and refrigerator in turn flank the sides of the ovens to create a sense of balance, with a pull-out pantry also located alongside for quick and easy access to supplies. An appliance garage provides hidden storage to allow additional workspace on the countertop.
The finishes for the new kitchen design were inspired by using the same finishes that were used for the media wall (that we preciously made for them) and then combining those with the soft hues of blue that these clients wanted to bring in. The cabinetry veneer is a combination of Paldao veneer and a Sapele veneer that is custom-stained to a Wenge finish. The blue pearl countertops compliment the soft blue “Island Stone” backsplash and “Sea Jewels Oyster” band. The layout of the tile was kept simple to accentuate the textures and colors of the tiles. The island countertop is a solid Wenge top that overhangs the island.
SPECIAL FEATURES—
The two-level pull-out pantry allows for easy access to everyday items and storage. Additional storage is also located above the stainless steel hood and refrigerator. The appliance garage allows for coffee and blender storage while a TV pullout next to it allows for additional entertainment. Light-colored porcelain tile from Daltile creates a nice contrast with the dark cabinetry. The clear glass pendants over the island create an additional layer of texture and sparkle and play off the glass backsplash.
Now this is a multipurpose kitchen at its best with a timeless palette and well-defined work areas. The newly designed kitchen is spacious, warm, and welcoming and has become the new gathering area in their home.
Virtual Tour: