Great Falls, VA

The client’s goal was to create a new kitchen that retained the views to a koi pond animated by a waterfall in the rear yard. By removing walls to incorporate the existing dining room, this large modern kitchen not only retained the view but improved it. The island was turned and made larger so that it was in proportion with the new, larger space. Seating at the central island is directed toward the rear view and koi pond activity. The existing posts and beams remained their natural wood color which set the tone for the cabinets and counter colors. The stainless steel refrigerator was ganged up with stainless steel cabinets which house the stainless oven and speed oven. This accent area is lined up with the “hallway” created by the posts. Floor to ceiling glass with 8’ wide sliders allows the natural beauty of the landscape to inform the aesthetic of the kitchen and connects the architecture to its natural surroundings. A built in breakfast banquette frames the woodland view at the front of the contemporary post and beam “Deck House”. The open transition between the kitchen and double height living room allows the landscape vignettes to extend throughout the house, drawing the outside into the living space. Objectives To open up the space and improve the backyard view Accommodate larger number of people at the island Draw the outside into the living space and connect all the three spaces together Challenges The post in the kitchen cannot be replaced or removed had to work around it. To give it a sense of purpose attached the island to the post. To enjoy the view of the backyard provided seating at the island which went around the corner. Existing beams and post added lot of architecture but they had to blend in To create a clean and sleek look the cabinetry has integrated handles and engineering them was difficult especially for the dish washer. Solution Removed walls and incorporated the existing dinning room into the kitchen.Turned the direction of the island and made it larger. Made sure cabinets and ctr top blended in and complimented the natural wood color of the beams and posts. Floor to ceiling glass with 8’ wide sliders brings the natural beauty of the landscape inside. A built in breakfast banquette frames the woodland view at the front of the contemporary post and beam “Deck House”. Open and seamless transition between the kitchen and living room and dinning room allows the space to look harmonious. Special Features Stainless steel appliances and cabinets create an accent wall and is lined up with the hallway created by the posts. Integrated handles give the cabinets a sleek look.

Designed by #JGKB. Photography by Bob Narod.