Butcher Block Island Designs & Ideas
Nystrom DesignWe were asked to achieve modern-day functionality and style while preserving the architectural character of this Victorian home built in 1900. We balanced a classic white cabinet style with a bold backsplash tile and an island countertop made from reclaimed high school bleacher seats.
// Photographer: Caroline Johnson
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Jordan Design-Build GroupAn old stone mansion built in 1924 had seen a number of renovations over the decades and the time had finally come to address a growing list of issues. Rather than continue with a patchwork of fixes, the owners engaged us to conduct a full house renovation to bring this home back to its former glory and in line with its status as an international consulate residence where dignitaries are hosted on a regular basis. One of the biggest projects was remodeling the expansive 365 SF kitchen; the main kitchen needed to be both a workhorse for the weekly catered events as well as serve as the residents’ primary hub. We made adjustments to the kitchen layout to maximize countertop and storage space as well as enhance overall functionality, being mindful of the dual purposes this kitchen serves.
To add visual interest to the large space we used two toned cabinets – classic white along the perimeter and a deep blue to distinguish the two islands and tall pantry. Brushed brass accents echo the original brass hardware and fixtures throughout the home. A kitchen this large needed a statement when it came to the countertops so we selected a stunning Nuvolato quartzite with distinctive veining that complements the blue cabinets. We restored and refinished the original Heart of Pine floors, letting the natural character of the wood shine through. A custom antique Heart of Pine wood top was commissioned for the fixed island – the warmth of wood was preferable to stone for the informal seating area. The second island serves as both prep area and staging space for dinners and events. This mobile island can be pushed flush with the stationary island to provide a generous area for the caterers to expedite service.
Adjacent to the main kitchen, we added a second service kitchen for the live-in staff and their family. This room used to be a catch-all laundry/storage/mudroom so we had to get creative in order to incorporate all of those features while adding a fully functioning eat-in kitchen. Using smaller appliances allowed us to capture more space for cabinetry and by stacking the cabinets and washer/dryer (relocated to the rear service foyer) we managed to meet all the requirements. We installed salvaged Heart of Pine floors to match the originals in the adjacent kitchen and chose a neutral finish palette that will be easy to maintain.
These kitchens weren’t the only projects we undertook in the historic stone mansion. Other renovations include 7 bathrooms, flooring throughout (hardwoods, custom carpets/runners/wall-to-wall), custom drapery and window treatments, new lighting/electric, as well as paint/trim and custom closet and cabinetry.
Dhinoy StudiosLarge open kitchen with luxury details. Waterfall island top as well as a wood chopping block. Open shelving coordinates with the wood flooring. Fixtures and hardware add warmth and a contemporary feeling in golden brass. Light grey cabinetry.
ArtichokeThis bespoke professional cook's kitchen features a custom copper and stainless steel La Cornue range cooker and extraction canopy, built to match the client's copper pans. Italian Black Basalt stone shelving lines the walls resting on Acero stone brackets, a detail repeated on bench seats in front of the windows between glazed crockery cabinets. The table was made in solid English oak with turned legs. The project’s special details include inset LED strip lighting rebated into the underside of the stone shelves, wired invisibly through the stone brackets. Read our article about The Regency Cook's Kitchen.
Primary materials: Hand painted Sapele; Italian Black Basalt; Acero limestone; English oak; Lefroy Brooks white brick tiles; antique brass, nickel and pewter ironmongery.
Butcher Block Island Designs & Ideas
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