Tasteful Kitchens
City and Shore | May 2011
Designer Michael Wolk created what looks like a picture window when he took down a wall in a kitchen in Miami Beach condo. The kitchen’s design, viewed from the reverse angle at right, is a cooks fantasy with an architectural hood, two traditional ovens, a steam oven and a microwave.
The Traditional Kitchen is Opening up to some fresh ideas – and to some open spaces
Our tastes change, and so do the designs of our kitchens.
We are staying in our homes longer, cooking and entertaining more, and our kitchens reflect these lifestyle changes. South Florida designers say they are seeing the following trends as the kitchen once again becomes the hearth of the home:
Kitchen walls are coming down in older condos so residents can see their views while cooking.
Some homeowners still want a classic look, but more are requesting the clean lines of contemporary.
Those who want to save money on remodeling are opting for good quality – but no the most expensive appliances.
The Situation:
When Wolk’s newly married clients purchased an apartment on the 24th floor of a Miami Beach condo they had only one problem: They loved to cook, but the wall kept them from enjoying the spectacular ocean view from the kitchen.
His Solution:
It was obvious the wall separating the kitchen and the dining room had to go, but a supporting column stood in the way. He replaced it was a 4-foot long wall, covering the column and created another column to make it appear to be a picture window.
Perserving the view also meant rejecting overhead cabinets. In their place is a custom unit on another wall to create a floor-to-ceiling display and closed storage.
Appliances:
The clients knew what they wanted – a Thermador hybrid induction cook top, architectural looking range hood from Fabor; steam oven, two traditional ovens, dishwasher and warming drawer from Miele; wine cooler and refrigerator/freezer from Sub-Zero; and sharp microwave with Miele lift door. The cabinets are Tabu wood veneer and countertops are smoky chestnut quartz.
By Charlyne Varkonyi Schaub | Photography by Dan Foyer