FANTASY ISLAND A Green Hills home gets a fresh new look and a dream kitchen
Written by Rebecca Robinson of Monarch Lane Interiors / Photos by Allison Elefante-Ruby and Peach What I love most about interior design is not only transforming our client’s spaces to make them more functional but creating surprises that make you say “wow”! Being in the music and entertainment industry, our client needed great spaces to entertain on the first level of their home and dreamed of having a show-stopper chef ’s kitchen. First, we focused on reworking the first floor plan to create a better overall flow. We removed the drop ceilings and columns that had previously divided the rooms. Then, we added new structural ceiling beams and wrapped them in warm wood to add visual interest and draw your eye up. The design direction was “rustic elegance”, combining classical finishes with raw materials for a truly vibrant combination. Striking shades of blue permeate the spaces and make the various areas connect visually. When we first started designing the kitchen, our client knew they wanted this beautiful range by Viking. This substantial range in a dramatic shade of navy would need some grand features to compliment it. So, we topped it with a custom copper hood in
smooth and hammered silver tones. Next, we anchored the room by creating a huge entertaining island to allow all their friends to hang out with the chef. We gave the island a wave with a double-stacked countertop that took eight people to load in and install. Then, like shining stars, we hung two large pendants by Visual Comfort in an antique mirrored finish to bring depth and contrast. We had panels made for the refrigerator in a beautiful faux mercury glass to bring balance and reflect light around the room. These panels are not only stunning but are strong enough to handle everyday use. In addition, we had the panels framed in maple wood with a walnut finish to coordinate with the island. Opposite the kitchen’s range was an open stairwell to the basement. We walled up the stairs and created a bookcase that doubles as a secret door. The “door” leads to additional entertaining areas that would surely surprise guests! A navy patterned wallpaper was added to the back of the bookcase for contrast. All the accessories have been affixed to the shelves, so everything stays put when using the swinging door.
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