Story by Ann Butenas | Photography by Paul Bonnichsen
With more than 75 years of timeless design comprising this company’s portfolio, Kitchens by Kleweno continues to elevate the luxurious qualities kitchens deserve to have. This particular Mission Hills kitchen remodel is no exception to the high standards to which this respected company holds itself. The beauty is not only within the details, but also within its overall self-expression.
Not only does this exceptionally-designed space reflect flawless function, but its unique style also elevates its esteemed status within the home. This kitchen remodel was part of a whole house redesign and required intense precision when working in harmony with the adjoining dining room and living room spaces.
“Because the kitchen is in the middle of those two areas, we had to tie it together well and create flow,” expressed designer Genevieve Hamel, who noted this previously traditional style kitchen was elegantly transformed to a sleek and contemporary space. “The kitchen, which was secluded by walls, was the last upgrade done to the home. We opened it up to create flow with the outdoor area by putting in a door to the adjoining patio.”
So many appointments catch the eye and capture the heart in this room. What was formerly one window flanked by wall cabinets was modified to become a bank of windows.
“We tripled the window space to bring the outside in, exposing the beautiful garden in the back and allowing the natural light to come in,” noted Hamel. “The window opens from the middle and can be slid to the left or right, creating an opening in the middle. This way you can conveniently serve guests outside.”
The art piece above the windows was custom made to fit that space and complements the homeowners’ love of showcasing elements of their beloved art collection which represents pieces from local as well as international artisans.
Hamel minimized the hardware on the cabinetry to keep the focus on the sophisticated natural wood veneer. Instead, she added channel systems in the drawer and cabinets into which fingers can go to open the drawers and doors with ease. The dish pantry and the refrigerator are the only two fixtures with exposed hardware.
“The dishwasher also has a channel system on it,” indicated Hamel. “Or you can simply knock twice on the door and it will open automatically.”
Because the open design of the kitchen minimized available wall space for cabinets, Hamel had to exercise ingenuity in this regard. Next to the sink is a cabinet on the left with two pulls, which Hamel refers to as a dish pantry.
“All of the glasses and plates are stored in here, replacing the wall cabinets that just did not work in this new space,” explained Hamel.
Next to the dish pantry is the refrigerator and freezer, also created with the natural wood veneer.
The island is home to ample storage, an oven, and a cooktop. Copper pendant lights softly illuminate the ¾-inch clear glass dining table that is an extension of the island. The metallic copper base provides a beautiful complement to the pendants.
The natural wood veneer cabinets immediately draw you in with their elegant and confident style. The quartz countertops are brown with flecks of copper to bring out its unique flair.
An appliance garage sets on the island on top of the cabinets, which provides storage for smaller appliances. The rest of the kitchen enjoys all new fully integrated appliances.
The refinished oak flooring and quartz countertops with flecks of copper complete the look of sophistication which Hamel intended for this space.
“I like to stretch myself when designing new kitchens,” she said.
As a result, Hamel extended her creativity into the adjoining room by designing the contemporary entertainment center made of ash which boasts a striped mahogany veneer.
Resources
- Kitchen Design: Kitchens by Kleweno
- Cabinetry: Neff Beautiful Living
- Custom Railings: Austin Ironworks
