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Issue link: http://kitchenbathdesign.epubxp.com/i/165636
Photos: Stephen Allen Photos: Bruce Grainer Designer: Katheryn Cowles K.W. Cowles Design Center; Pensacola, FL Designer: Joan DesCombes, CKD Joan DesCombes Kitchen Design; Winter Park, FL Age of client: mid-40s with three teenage children Age of clients: late 50s Goal for the space: This family wanted to update the 1980s décor, address several functional and storage features, create adult space for the parents and bathrooms the children wouldn't outgrow. Goal for the space: This couple loved their previous kitchen, and they didn't want a lot of changes in their new space. "We kept the concept of what they had so they were comfortable with their new kitchen," says DesCombes. "We just updated its functionality." "They plan to downsize when their children are out of college, and they originally thought they would wait until just before they were ready to sell the house to have the bathrooms and kitchen updated," she says. "Then they realized the benefts of proceeding with the projects…that with good design for these spaces, they could enjoy these rooms for the next several years and realize most of their investment when they sell." Generational design elements (bathrooms): Light was a huge issue in the master bath, she notes. "The 'before' area was very dark and a large window above the tub was blocked by the shower wall that was removed in the renovation," she says. For the 11-year-old daughter's bathroom, storage for grooming products was important. "It is anticipated that soon she will become more interested in how she looks, and space for future products was incorporated in the vanity area, as well as the tub/ shower area," she notes. The same thought process was used for the boys, ages 13 and 16, who share a bath. 40s In all the bathrooms, selecting products with clean lines and easy maintenance was essential. Generational design elements (kitchen): A major concern was keeping the main trafc fow (i.e., running children) out of the work space, and providing a place for the children to do homework while mom cooks. The parents also wanted a cofee station out of the work area, which Cowles accomplished with custom-designed, low-slung pull-out stainless trays that allow for easy access and flling. A recharging center and dog feeding station are located in the cabinets at the entrance, and an area above the pantry cabinets was designed for displaying collections and holiday decorations. The adjacent hall niche was transformed into a wine center, with a beverage center below. 50s That isn't an uncommon request from clients within this age group with whom DesCombes works. "They want to be comfortable," she says. "They want to keep what they're used to. They don't want to move anything, and they don't want to buy new things if they don't have to." Generational design elements: Because her clients wanted familiarity in their new surroundings, DesCombes reused several elements, such as the island stools and the refrigerator/ freezer drawers (which remained in their original location). "The stools were 30 years old, but she loved them," she says. "Originally they were a light color, and taller. We cut them down, stained them a walnut color and covered them with leather." The designer also left the refrigerator/freezer in the same location, as well as the bookcase, which she gave a more contemporary look by recessing it into the wall. The same thought process was given to the previous kitchen desk area, which she changed from an inefective, angled space in the corner to a tall cabinet that's recessed into the wall. It gives her a place to hang her apron, write notes on the chalkboard and even grow a few herbs. The homeowners also wanted to make a tribute to their Jewish heritage and, as such, chose Jerusalem stone for their backsplash. "As people age, they often want to pay homage to their heritage," the designer adds. Her client was also adamant about choosing countertops that didn't require a lot of upkeep, so DesCombes used a quartz product from Europe for the island and perimeter. An onyx countertop, underlit with LED lights, adds interest at one end of the kitchen. September 2013 ForResidentialPros.com | 47