The Dream Kitchen Comes to Life
I’ll never forget the day we stumbled upon the foundation of our new home in Aberdeen. It was like fate had a hand in it – the timing just couldn’t have been more perfect. You see, my growing photography business had outgrown our previous space, and I knew I needed something more functional to accommodate the larger collaborations I had on the horizon.
As we toured the empty lot, I couldn’t contain my excitement. This was the chance to design the dream kitchen I had always envisioned – one that would not only look stunning but also flow seamlessly with my work. After all, the kitchen is the heart of any home, and for me, it had to be the beating heart of my creative endeavors as well.
Our new house was only a foundation in the ground when we found it, which meant we got to handpick every single interior finish. It was a total dream come true! Around the same time, I started chatting with the team at ABC Home about how we could work together on this project. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
Blending Styles for a Cohesive Look
As we dove into the design process, I struggled to find the perfect way to describe our style. “Soft modern meets simple industrial” is how I ultimately landed. We wanted to bring warmth to the space with natural wood elements and pops of color, while still maintaining the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic we love.
The key was finding the right balance – an open, bright, and airy feel, without sacrificing functionality or character. This was achieved through a careful selection of materials and finishes, from the unstained hickory floors to the white cabinets and backsplash.
One aspect I was particularly passionate about was the cabinet and drawer hardware. These small details have the power to make a big statement, so I knew I had to get them just right. After scouring ABC Home‘s extensive collection, I fell head over heels for their Larkin pulls in brushed nickel. The simple, clean lines and subtle industrial flair were exactly what I had envisioned.
Mastering the Art of Mixing Metals
As we continued to layer in the finishes, we knew we wanted to incorporate a bit of that industrial feel throughout the house. This is where the mixing of metals really came into play.
For the living room ceiling fan, we opted for a brushed nickel finish, which allowed it to blend seamlessly into the space rather than standing out as a focal point. The same goes for the Aurora Industrial Stools in the kitchen – the gray tone complemented the countertops perfectly without overwhelming the room.
In our research, we discovered that thoughtful metal pairings can truly transform a space, creating a cohesive and visually striking result. It’s all about finding that perfect balance between modern and industrial, soft and bold.
Embracing the Patina of Unlacquered Brass
Of course, no discussion of our kitchen would be complete without addressing the elephant in the room – the unlacquered brass faucet. I know, I know, it’s a polarizing choice, but hear me out.
There’s just something about the way unlacquered brass ages and develops a rich, natural patina that completely captivates me. I couldn’t resist the idea of that beautiful, lived-in look evolving over time right before my eyes. Sure, it requires a bit more maintenance, but for me, the payoff is more than worth it.
Like a fine wine, I love the way the brass will mature and develop its own unique character. It’s a testament to the passing of time and the story of our home. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little vintage charm in the kitchen?
Functionality Without Compromise
Of course, as much as I adore the aesthetic of the unlacquered brass, I know that functionality has to be the top priority in a hardworking kitchen like ours. That’s why we’ve taken extra care to ensure everything is not only beautiful but also highly practical.
The Rohl Perrin and Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet, for example, offers the classic bridge design I love, but with a single-handle configuration for easy temperature control. And the Kallista One Pull Down Faucet provides the sleek, modern look I’m after, while still delivering the convenience of a pull-down sprayer.
At the end of the day, I want our kitchen to be a space that’s as enjoyable to use as it is to look at. After all, what’s the point of having a stunning kitchen if you can’t actually cook in it? That’s why I’ve made functionality a non-negotiable, without ever compromising on style.
A Kitchen That Evolves with Us
As our project has progressed, I’ve learned that renovating a kitchen is very much a journey – one that’s constantly evolving to meet our changing needs. And that’s exactly what makes it so exciting.
Just like our home, our kitchen has had to adapt and transform alongside my growing business. What was once a small, cramped space is now a bright, open, and highly versatile workspace that supports my photography in ways I never could have imagined.
From the custom cabinetry that keeps my ever-expanding prop collection organized to the multiple surfaces for shooting, this kitchen has truly become the heart of my creative process.
And as my work continues to evolve, I know that our kitchen will evolve right along with it. That’s the beauty of designing a space that’s not just beautiful, but also highly functional and adaptable. It’s a living, breathing part of our home that will grow and change with us over the years.
The Kitchen of Our Dreams
When I reflect on our journey to this point, I can’t help but feel incredibly grateful. What started as a simple need for more functional workspace has blossomed into the kitchen of our dreams – a space that’s equal parts stunning and practical, with just the right touch of vintage charm.
From the gleaming unlacquered brass faucet to the carefully curated mix of metals, every single detail in this kitchen has been meticulously considered. And the best part? We get to enjoy it all, day in and day out, as we continue to write the story of our home.
So, if you’re embarking on your own kitchen renovation journey, I hope our experience has inspired you to think outside the box and embrace the unexpected. Because sometimes, the most beautiful and functional spaces come from daring to be a little different.
