The kitchen is the hub of the home: it’s not just a place for cooking and cleaning, but a place to gather as a family, entertain and enjoy life’s special moments. A functional space is a must for a smooth-running family, but today’s kitchens can be far more than merely practical. With custom cabinetry, decorative hardware, sleek appliances, work islands and an endless array of countertop options, the kitchen can be an inspirational composition of balance and beauty. Take a look at these beautiful kitchens, the work of Birmingham-based Cantley & Company, for some serious style inspiration!
Pristine white-on-white is timeless and classic. Crystal chandeliers and knobs add old world elegance, while the simple clean lines of the hood provide a modern, sleek, streamlined look.
Another view of this stunning kitchen. The marble countertops are 5 cm thick, as opposed to the more typical 3 cm. Glass cabinetry allows for display of beautiful wares.
When asked about trends in kitchen design, Cyndy Cantley tells me her company doesn’t follow trends, per se, preferring to keep things classic, which makes them timeless. While white kitchens with stainless appliances seem to be the most popular, there are many way to personalize this central family space to allow for added warmth, texture and custom detail. For example, contrasting a light kitchen with darker wood accents–like mahogany, walnut or cypress–creates a space that feels more like other rooms in the home.
This large mahogany island anchors the kitchen, providing ample space for working and entertaining. The built-in refrigerator is seamlessly tucked away on the right, while a large pantry provides storage on the left. The step back hood was custom-designed for the homeowners to complement the cabinetry.
Two Sub Zero wine coolers located in the butler’s pantry keep the homeowner’s collection of wines stored at the perfect temperature. The wood shelving, walnut countertop and window trim add warmth to the space and continuity with the kitchen.
Here, the marble-topped island resembles a table more than an island. The pendant light fixtures provide ample lighting while adding a classic touch of black to this white kitchen. The built-in pot racks keep cookware in easy reach without sacrificing cabinet space.
The custom hood and subway tile make for a timeless look, and the runner adds warmth as well as comfort to the space.
This kitchen is a chef’s dream with stainless steel countertops and an industrial-style faucet. Opting for a cleaner look, the homeowners chose to go hoodless with a recessed ceiling vent over the range. The island top is Belgium bluestone, which was also the island material of choice by the Barefoot Contessa for her new “barn” located in the Hamptons.
The glass hutch style cabinetry ensures that the light from the windows is maximized in this small kitchen. Dark window trim echoes the island and brings a cohesive contrast to the room.
Similar to a white color scheme, soft, earthy neutral tones are appealing in kitchens, as well.
Here, wood beams and paneling on the ceiling create a rustic feel. Thick Indiana limestone slabs add to the warm feel and the blue tile backsplash adds texture and depth, as well as a little subtle pop of color.
It’s the details that really make for an extraordinary kitchen. Decorative hardware, cabinet detail, custom hood creations and fabulous farmhouse sinks are just some of the myriad accents that can up the wow factor of a kitchen.
Old stable gates from Portugal were repurposed as cabinet doors here, a fitting tribute to the horse loving homeowners.
Mesh inserts in arched cabinet doors add texture and visual interest.
Hardware comes in many different styles and finishes and can really elevate the look of a kitchen.
A gleaming copper sink makes this space shine. Notice all the different hardware styles incorporated here, and how mixing pulls and knobs adds visual interest.
Many thanks to Cyndy Cantley of Cantley & Company for sharing these photos today. To learn more about Cantley & Company, visit their FaceBook page at www.facebook.com/Cantley-Company and look for their new website at www.cantleyandcompany.com coming soon.
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