Three renowned brands – kitchen countertop expert Silestone, leading plumbing manufacturer Kohler Co. and Benjamin Moore Paints – worked hand-in-hand to create this charming kitchen. With Silestone trenspotter Cheryl Kees Clendenon (of design firm InDetail Interiors) helming the design process, the kitchen exudes an elegant and outdoorsy atmosphere.
It’s called the Greenhouse Kitchen, due to its tranquil environment that embraces the outdoors and encourages relaxation. It features easy access to home gardening, a prep zone for canning fruit and vegetables, wide aisles for aging in place, and wine storage awash in brilliant light.
"My goal is to make the indoor/outdoor connection as seamless as possible. The idea of it is certainly not new but as more people are cognizant of what they eat and the importance of a healthful lifestyle, I think we’ll see a shift in how we approach kitchen design by allocating space for small gardens. For smaller homes, outdoor spaces expand entertaining space. Who wants 20 people in a tiny kitchen? The outdoor area should be designed so guests can move freely from the inside out," says Cheryl.
In designing the kitchen, Cheryl incorporates as much natural light as she could. She also suggests using colors that are softer and more naturally occurring, as well as to bring in organic materials, for a similar look. "In this kitchen I used natural woods, brick, metals like copper, and garden-inspired dining chairs from Sika and Charcoal Soapstone – a new color from Silestone that is reminiscent of real soapstone, minus the porosity and upkeep," says Cheryl.
With different kitchen zones in mind, Cheryl used four colors from Cosentino to help define space and ensure maximum durability: Charcoal Soapstone and Calacatta Gold from the Silestone Eternal Collection, Silestone Iconic White, and Dekton Aldem.
"We have multiple seating options. The lowered seating at the end of the island is ideal for young children, as well as those in wheelchairs. Table-height seating at the island is a fantastic solution not only for those who love to entertain, but those looking to age in place," says Cheryl.
Having multiple sinks is also key when you want help in the kitchen, she advises. This is a family-centric kitchen with opportunities for everyone—family and guests alike—to participate in the making of a meal.
And her tip for those designing their kitchen? "Plan, plan, plan. Then stick to the plan! Consider all the uses of the kitchen. Not just for meal prep anymore but also as a true "living room". Also consider targeted storage (what goes where, and why). Forget anything you have ever heard about a “work triangle,” and instead think about zones. What are you doing and what do you need nearby? Have multiple water sources as in sinks and faucets," says Cheryl.