For a D.C.-based client with a beautiful 1910 Beaux-Arts brownstone, designer Zoe Feldman needed to transform a dark garden level kitchen into a bright and livable space. With light now pouring through the room, Feldman could then focus on creating an area to be savored.
There are so many interesting details. Where did you start? We wanted to modernize the kitchen while retaining this historic home’s classic feel. Our goal was to infuse the space with some unexpected moments without making it feel too saturated. We landed on a subtle palette of grays and walnut surfaces with a moment for the jewel-toned range.
What was important to the clients for this space? We try to create solutions tailored to each client’s lifestyle. The homeowners don’t cook very often, but they wanted a beautiful space to dine. We took advantage of an existing curved wall and transformed it into an intimate dining area. We added pop-up outlets so it can dually function as a workspace.
Overall, what makes a good kitchen? A good kitchen is a workhorse. I subscribe to the belief that you can have a beautiful kitchen without being precious about maintenance. Knicks and stains are part of the charm of a great kitchen—I cut things directly on my marble countertops. Europeans have always done this; we just need to catch up!
