An aura of French country embraces this modern kitchen.
Story by Judy Spaar / Photography by Randy Van Photography
If a French countrywoman from the 1850s stepped into this cooking room, she would be awe-struck, thinking she had entered a castle! Home to two avid cooks, Clay and Chelsee, the dream of their aspired kitchen became a reality.
Karin Ross of Karin Ross Designs was the ideal visionary partner for this project. With a collection of pictures reflecting what they desired, Karin’s creative spin resulted in a kitchen that the couple had only dreamt of.
“We decided to update the kitchen after realizing it had become the most-used space in our home, but didn’t reflect the warmth and character we wanted or functionality,” Chelsee expressed. “I’ve always loved the inviting feel of French country design with the mix of natural textures and timelessness, and effortless ‘lived in’ feel. It felt like the perfect style to create a cozy, welcoming space where everyone naturally gathers.”
“We’ve lived in our home for four years, and over time got a better sense of how we actually use the space – especially after adding four kids to the mix since moving in. Yes, four under four!” Chelsee smiled. “The remodel felt like the right step to make the kitchen truly functional for our family’s daily rhythm.”
Acquainted with each other through a previous business relationship, Chelsee knew that Karin was who they wanted to partner with to design and create the look they desired. “We worked closely together on this from start to finish,” Karin added.
The kitchen embodies an old-school enchantment. Its dark-shaded, custom contemporary gas stove and vent hood reflect a vintage aura while offering modern amenities. Framing the vent hood, the gold-tone transitional wall sconces add to the kitchen’s character.
“The real stone backsplashes throughout the kitchen bring personality and style to the space, again replicating a French country kitchen,” she added. “Everything is special and one-of-a-kind.”
The custom-made, uniquely shaped kitchen island/bar layout with marble texture offers ample storage. Elevating the ambiance is the modern chandelier in warm brass with its intriguing details. Imported from Italy, it glamorizes the space while brightening the island area, which is used for serving, eating, and other daily family activities.
Tucked inside the island, the dishwasher saves space, and the shelving provides additional storage. Having these amenities of functionality and design energizes Chelsee to cook, while the space itself puts her in the mood to be creative and spend quality time cooking dinners and baking.
“The kids love sitting at the island snacking and playing, while I am cooking or cleaning,” she added. “Having a space for them and their activities allows us to spend quality time together – most agree the kitchen is the heart of the home, and I believe this to be true thinking about the special conversations we have about their day and funny brotherly banter I witness as I cook.”
“I love trying new recipes, and a functional space allows me to enjoy the process,” she shared. “And with the double sink, my husband and I have room to stand there together to do dishes!”
The kitchen floor of wide-planked engineered hardwood is designed for stability and longevity, perfect for the pitter-patter of all of those little feet, while providing that “Old World” look.
The long vintage-inspired runner in front of the sink area carries out the antique theme. A spacious 45” sink with a double faucet serves the family well, aiding in prep and clean up. Open corner shelving provides the perfect spot to showcase collections while providing needed storage. “They can change things out to fit each season,” Ross noted.
A sense of the past certainly greets this family as they fix coffee and breakfast in the mornings and create delectable dishes in the evenings. This space is saturated with warmth and welcoming treasures.
Chelsee and Clay added, “We wanted a lived-in feel, and a kitchen designed to be used, loved, and enjoyed every day. We’re so happy with the end result and had fun picking all the big and small details throughout.”
Resources
- Contractor/Designer: Karin Ross Designs
