Clean and Contemporary on the Braden River

Cramped, separate, and traditional are not three words these Bradenton homeowners wanted to use to describe their kitchen. Unfortunately, those are the first words that came to mind when someone walked into the room. That’s why they called us.

What good is a river view if you can’t enjoy it? Opening up the kitchen created a great room out of what was once two small spaces. In turn, the living room picture window brings more natural light into the kitchen.

Having lived with dark and rustic cabinetry for so long, these clients chose StarMark Cabinetry’s Tempo slab door style to achieve a sleek look. A honey maple finish makes ensures the visual warmth remains in the kitchen while enhancing the look of sleek stainless steel, Jenn-Air appliances. Giallo Rio granite, with its caramel tones and black accent ties the cabinetry and appliances together.

A hood wasn’t important to the homeowners, so placing a cooktop on the peninsula meant we didn’t have to sacrifice the newfound open feel. (While local building codes do not require mechanical ventilation as long as an operating window is available, I always think it is a good idea. This is one instance where the homeowners’ wishes trumped my suggestion.)

Pantries remedy the storage shortage that occurs when eliminating wall cabinets. Flanking the refrigerator with split pantries also provides a more aesthetically-pleasing alcove to house the appliance, mimicking the adjacent built-in oven and microwave. A small  island bridges the large floor space between storage, prep, and primary cooking zones. Finally, a little bit of glass creates a natural focal point from the living area, while stem glass racks below form an entertainment zone at the same time.

Cabinetry: StarMark Cabinetry
Doorstyle: Tempo
Wood Specie: Maple
Finish: Honey
Countertops: Giallo Rio granite
Remodeling Partners:Fred H. Bey, Inc.; Rice’s Appliances

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