The Sausalito clients, a retired couple who enjoy cooking and entertaining, were tired of their dated kitchen. Given their extended family (his, hers and lots of grandchildren), they were ready for an update and I was hired to create something visually elegant while being completely practical. The challenge was to create an exciting space considering the small footprint and the architecture constraints.

We began our design keeping in mind the sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the first step was to open the kitchen into the view. High cabinets were removed and the space opened into the dining room. The theme was set by a hand carved stone backsplash by Artistic Tile that reminded the clients of the waves of the bay. The custom cabinetry, fastidiously designed to meet all the clients’ wishes, was first bleached, then stained and finally glazed to create a fine furniture finish. A cream color Caesarstone was chosen for the counter tops and waterfall sides of the center island. Hand crafted Rocky Mountain hardware was used throughout. A handsome hand-hammered chandelier by Gregorius Pineo hangs over the island for task light and is also a great visual element from the dining table. An additional high counter was constructed as the owner’s working desk/station. For seating, we chose a gazelle stool by Dan Johnson adding a modern edgy touch.

All photos by Christopher Stark