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Curved, suspended shelving that
mirrors the countertops below helps to define the kitchen in this large
great room. Awe-inspiring ocean views determine the architecture of many
homes. They can also help to shape the design of kitchens, as this beach
house illustrates.
Owners Vern and Joyce Vereschagin commissioned architect David Kingwill
to design their new vacation home on a hill high above the Pacific Ocean.
As the couple love to entertain, they liked the concept of a great room
where guests could mingle and enjoy the view from all areas, including
the kitchen.
"We loved the idea of a room without walls," says Joyce Vereschagin. "It
not only maximizes the view, but also creates a casual and relaxing environment.
We particularly wanted an uncomplicated interior design, one that wouldn't
detract from the view."
As the great room measures 35ft by 60ft, there was plenty of space for
the kitchen. However, such a large area could have created problems, says
Kingwill.
"The kitchen needed to be defined within this huge area. Yet, at the same
time, we had to avoid any structures that would interfere with the view,"
he says. "Keeping a sense of openness was crucial."
The solution was found by designing a series of curved countertops that
define the space and encourage circulation between the various areas.
The curved shapes also add a sculptural element, which is repeated throughout
the room.
"The curves, which were requested by the owners, help to soften the overall
look and provide continuity between areas," says Kingwill. As well as
curved countertops, there is a curved, sculptural wall in the great room
which features niches to display glassware and ornaments. Kingwill also
designed three suspended shelving units that play on the curved theme.
"These units were designed to highlight specific items and to create a
sculptural unity throughout the great room," he says. "Each one mirrors
the shape of the counter beneath."
The shelving units are suspended by steel rods and are kept above head
height, so they won't block the view. Each one features indirect halogen
lighting on a dimmer switch, designed to add a soft glow to the room at
night.
Maple cabinetry provides extensive storage, which was necessary to avoid
cluttering up the countertops, says Joyce Vereschagin.
"We wanted very smooth, flat surfaces. The granite countertops were specified
to enhance this look, and because we wanted a low-maintenance kitchen,"
she says.
The maple cabinetry matches the flooring and was chosen to enhance the
soft, natural look. A centrally positioned refrigerator is integrated
into the cabinetry.
Other large appliances and the pantry line a side wall. Keeping these
out of the way ensures they don't interfere with lines of vision, says
Kingwill. The cooktop, however, is on an island.
"This allows the cook to socialize with guests, who always seem to gather
by the kitchen to watch and participate," he says.
Resource List:
Architect:
David Kingwill, (Sebastopol, CA)
General contractor:
Charlie Stromer Construction
Cabinets:
Maple with clear finish by Butch Hofland
Countertops and backsplash:
Granite in Bainbrook Peach from Anthony's
Flooring:
Maple with clear finish from World of Carpets
Windows:
EPI vinyl from Dee-Jays
Doors:
Andersen vinyl clad from Mead Clark
Wallcoverings:
Painted gypsum board
Lighting:
Juno, Kicheler, Tech, Latigo, Hinkley and LBL from Lighting Design Center
Sink:
Kohler Brookfield undermount in Bisque from Tuscany Plumbing
Faucets:
Moen Almond pull-out from Tuscany Plumbing
Double oven:
KitchenAid
Cooktop:
Dacor
Ventilation unit:
Dacor downdraft
Microwave and dishwasher:
KitchenAid
Waste unit:
In-Sink-Erator
Trends-info:
For more information on these products and services, fax +64 9 571 5750
email: infoline@trendsbooks.com
Photography:
Tim Maloney
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