Story by Ann Butenas | Photos by Matt Kocourek
At first blush, this kitchen may present as somewhat simple in style and design, but what rests in such a clean and minimalist presentation is beyond extraordinary. Taking the client’s intention for a clean, simple and precise look and elevating that resulted in a transformation that brought warmth and harmony that is contiguous to the home’s overall ambiance while still inspiring a fresh and transitional appeal.
As part of a complete home remodel in northern Leawood, this established home has successfully blended a period-like appeal with an updated vibe. After undergoing a kitchen remodel by the experts at Portfolio Kitchen & Home, it still maintains its original persona, but with a decided twist. Clean and specifically edited, this kitchen refuses to subscribe to only a modern or contemporary look and instead has embraced the freedom to simply be itself.
“The simplicity of this design was intentional on the clients’ part,” expressed designer Geri Higgins, owner of Portfolio Kitchen & Home.
Designed by an experienced team that included Higgins, Lauren Scassellati, Brian Burchfiel and Sarah Gunsche, this space boasts a plethora of eye-catching highlights that perfectly complete the look without overwhelming the senses. Clean, simple and uncluttered, this space provides the right amount of functionality and style while still making a powerful statement all of its own.
The perimeter maple cabinetry boasting Stowe white paint complements the hickory wood and slate stain of the center island. Caesarstone countertops (London Grey on the perimeter and Emperadoro on the island) throughout provide a clean look while simultaneously offering ample space for multitasking.
“The client wanted a very long and uninterrupted place for the kids to do homework or for use as a food preparation area,” noted Higgins. “It’s also a great landing place for serving food at parties.”
New appliances were installed, including the Verona range, Jenn-Air refrigerator and Bosch dishwasher, adding not only sophisticated presentation but also the requisite function.
Other highlights include the porcelain artisan tile backsplash, the period-like milk glass pendant lights, and the darkened hardwood floors, the color for which was custom mixed on-site.
This kitchen definitely proves its form and function prowess by offering its own personality, meeting exacting standards effortlessly.
“The power of the kitchen is the edited approach to get a clean, fresh look that marries the period influence of the rest of the home,” stated Higgins.
And the clients, Tammy and Robert Broaddus, could not be happier with the results.
“We’ve lived in our home for 15 years and have been working on it since day one,” noted Tammy. “As a couple, Rob and I believe in do-it-yourself, but not for a kitchen. Our biggest tip for a kitchen is to use professionals so you don’t waste time, energy and money on a poor design or build out. Consult professionals with the latest ideas that help you translate your needs into an efficient plan that fits your tastes and budget, and the skills to install it to perfection, as did Woodward Construction. Terry and Mark Woodward’s expertise brought the design to life brilliantly. To see their craftsmanship each day was an amazing experience. Our kitchen now is a daily expression of who we are as a family. We love it.”
Resources
Portfolio Kitchen & Home
Countertops: Caesarstone | Range: Verona | Refrigerator: Jenn-Air | Dishwasher: Bosch
