Designer Carleton Young was hired to develop the basic plans her client had for a renovation that would expand the kitchen, add a primary bath, and enclose the porch to create an entrance foyer. Carleton did all of the detailed construction drawings required and acted as the project manager for the entire process. From cabinet layouts to lighting and space planning to decisions on all finishes, appliances, and furnishings, she had the end goal in mind at all times. "My client wanted a comfortable design that was great for entertaining — elegant, colorful, and luxurious." Carleton hit it out of the ballpark. In the kitchen, she started by adding lots of natural light by designing new windows and a fantastic steel and glass door with functioning sidelights that open to allow sunshine in. Statement-making choices — the sparkling Cristallo quartzite island with waterfall sides, the custom brass details added to the range's dramatic 48" hood, and the pop of color at the built-in bar are super chic. Simple slab door cabinets, a True refrigerator with custom details such as the stainless frame and bold brass hardware, and Restoration Hardware lights over the windows and sink keep the look warm and inviting.
For the standout entrance, Carleton designed windows for the front wall and a door with functioning sidelights for a fabulous modern contrast to the craftsman's architectural features. Enclosing the existing porch increased square footage and made way for a new light-filled entry. Where the previous front door was, she installed arched pocket doors so that the living room enjoys the flood of light, but has privacy when needed. The cohesive color palette for the house was pulled from the client’s art. Berry upholstery for counter stools, dining chairs, and accent pillows; mink velvet sofas; and various shades of blue are used throughout. I love how she repurposed stacking cabinets by lacquering them in Benjamin Moore's Georgian Blue and placing them side by side in the dining room for additional storage.
The addition of a primary bath maximizes luxury and function in a small space. The shower designed with multiple water sources, a quartzite bench, and a place for everything is dreamy. "While the vanity is not large, there is storage for all the things she uses daily and the large mirror enlarges the room visually." Not only did this savvy renovation almost double the house’s size, but also packed it with high style and improved functionality — ideal reasons to engage a designer at the start of any project. Having an expert choose slabs of quartz, hexagon calacatta gold tiles, and major fixtures and appliances is money well spent.
This article appeared in Adore's October 2022 issue