Sherwood, MD
Surrounded by farmland and set on the shoreline of a creek and cove that connect to the Chesapeake
Bay, the goal of this project was to modernize and open up the kitchen for entertaining in this stunning
Eastern Shore family retreat.
The owner, a serious cook, enjoys hosting large gatherings and was limited in a cramped and outdated
kitchen. Removing much of the existing wall between the dining room and kitchen, and between the
dining room and seating area, allowed for a new series of en suite spaces.
The kitchen was also much improved by removing unnecessary bulkheads and taking the cabinets up to
the ceiling. The existing 48” gas range was re‐positioned and a new custom hood added. By flanking the
range with two wall cabinets a focal point was created. To the right of the range floating shelves are
conveniently located for storing dishes. The shiplap behind them adds interest, texture, and allows the
backsplash to center on the range and wall cabinets.
The main island is centered on the range wall and features carved furniture legs. It is also centers on the
bay window of the breakfast nook. This spacious island is used for prepping meals and features a pull‐
out cutting board, microwave drawer and beverage center. It houses the main sink, dishwasher and also
serves as the main clean‐up area.
A beautiful tall hutch cabinet with glass doors also centers on the island. The hutch, a unique furniture
piece, stores dishes, decorative objects, and cutlery. The original kitchen had a door to the right of the
hutch cabinet. It was relocated to improve circulation and allow for additional counter space and
storage below. Shiplap was installed above the counter and creates a wall for art. An existing closet was
utilized to create a walk‐in pantry.
The second island is centered on the new openings to the Dining and Sitting rooms. This island features
a trough sink, convenient for entertaining, and provides seating from which to view the fireplace and TV.
The removal of a window to the right of the fireplace allowed for two flanking built‐ins for displaying
books and decorative objects. This not only allows for a focal point on the fireplace wall but enhances
the window wall and its view to the water. A door to a back hallway was removed, opposite the window
wall, allowing for improved furniture placement in the room.
New ceiling beams, detailed to match the beams in adjoining rooms, were designed for the kitchen and
sitting room. These further unify the rooms and organize the placement of ceiling fixtures. Shiplap,
similar to the treatment used on the kitchen walls, was added to the dining room and breakfast nook
ceilings.
Designed by #JGKB. Photography by John Cole Photography.
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