What strikes the viewer of this project is the sheer volume of open space and light in this remodeled row-house kitchen. What struck the Silver Spring, MD-based design/build firm The Levine Group was the glaring absence of these crucial elements in the original design.

Having sat idle for 30 years, the kitchen reflected the prevailing trends of the period: It was small, dark and isolated from the rest of the house.

The clients, a ceramic/glass sculptor and her husband, desired light, open space areas for the display of artwork and a great atmosphere for entertaining.

After speaking with the clients extensively, the designers settled on infusing the space with an “open loft feel.”

Partitions were eliminated, creating a seamless flow from kitchen to dining room, including seating areas and display room for artwork along the walls.

Long surfaces provide the optical illusion of additional space; bulkheads housing the HVAC ducts help to subtly define and divide the kitchen and dining room. A tray ceiling over the island houses indirect up-lighting and a long, sleek pendant light.
According to the design team, one challenge was “finding ways to include more light.” A new grid of glass spans across the rear façade to encourage natural light into the kitchen.

“The soft material palette combines manmade and natural materials: cherry wood veneer, stainless steel and plastic laminate,” notes the company.

Bamboo floors are set flush with porcelain tile that borders the cabinets and wraps up the wall to provide a backsplash and a deep window sill.

This variety of materials keeps the minimal space visually interesting and fulfills the clients’ wish for a warm, urbane kitchen.

For more about this project, click here.

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