A growing family gets a kitchen they can work, eat and relax better in — and that’s easier on the eyes
The couple wanted to create a more efficient space where they could enjoy daily meals, relax and feel a connection with their backyard. Key structural and design changes were made to transform the once-closed-off, disorganized kitchen into the central gathering place of this inviting city home.
Kitchen at a Glance
Who lives here: A family with young children
Location: Cole Valley neighborhood of San Francisco
Size: 150 square feet (14 square meters)
Reconfiguring the flat and removing walls improved traffic flow and allowed room for a large center work island that defines the kitchen and the now-adjacent family room. “The island is both furniture and function,” says Budd. “It’s a divider and where you converse.” The island includes lots of built-in designated storage, including a crafts drawer for the kids and a pullout cabinet for a large mixer and a food processor.
The stunning white Calacatta marble top with light gray veining and gold flecks from local company Fox Marble & Granite adds a touch of elegance.
Mega Bulb Pendant Lights: YLighting; paint: Seattle Mist, Benjamin Moore (full shade on cabinets; 50 percent shade on walls)
The efficient banquette features a flip-up bench that offers hidden storage for toys.
Pendant lamp: discontinued; bench cushions: custom, Van Galen Upholstery in San Francisco; banquette table: ash wood, custom, Stapp’s Fine Woodworking
The washer and dryer are behind flipper doors to the left of the pantry. A hidden pullout ironing board in the island is just steps away. This streamlined solution replaces the unit’s old sloping laundry porch, which was converted into a third bedroom.
Cabinets: custom, J. Spix Fine Cabinets in Sausalito, California
Faucet: 33980 in brushed nickel, Grohe
Budd points out that they purposely didn’t build the shelves all the way to the ceiling, to help the room feel as large as possible. “When they arrive home, this is the space they live in,” he says. “What we did for them with the kitchen and family room is create a center spot for the family to live in, to eat, talk and be together.”
Team:
Architects: Gast Architects
General contractor: F.R. James ConstructionStructural engineers: GFDS Engineers
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