STYLISH KITCHEN

DESIGNER | Tracey Stephens, ASID, Tracey Stephens Interior Design, Montclair

While large enough, this South Orange kitchen was so poorly organized that the homeowners were constantly bumping into each other. In addition to daily family meals, they enjoy making kombucha, yogurt and beer, as well as growing vegetables in their garden. Their wish list: an ultra-functional, efficient space personalized to their sustainable lifestyle. Stephens’ key structural changes—closing off the unused back stairs, relocating the half bath and reconfiguring windows—enhanced flow and function by carving out two separate work zones, a two-seat peninsula and a small rear-door mudroom area. Gray Shaker cabinets, black crackle glaze tile backsplash, whimsical star-patterned porcelain floor tiles, walnut countertops and apron-front sink enhance the cozy culinary haven. Custom details—a Julia Child-inspired pegboard displaying the homeowners’ cooking gadgetry and a hand-crafted walnut countertop spice rack—avoid cookie-cutter conformity. The result: a warm, welcoming space with a modern farmhouse vibe.

Pro Tip: Pre-plan where you’ll store essentials, create separate prep, cleaning and cooking zones as well as specially designated areas like a drop-off section or a pet feeding spot.