Clever storage solutions, color, and materials add personality and warmth
Written bySunsetDecember 7, 2006
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John Granen
1 of 6John Granen
Expanding the Kitchen
In the compact kitchen, a dark cork tile floor, light-colored walls, and a single storage wall help the space feel roomy. The stainless steel rolling table is from a restaurant supply store.
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Adding Color to the Kitchen
Mahogany cabinetry and cork floor tiles add warmth to the kitchen. The "Leather Bound" ( Sherwin-Williams, 6118) wall is in the dining room; "Aspen Orange" (Ralph Lauren Paint, GH176) is in the wine storage area.
John Granen
3 of 6John Granen
Double-duty Buffet
In the dining room, a built-in wine cabinet and counter doubles as a buffet.
John Granen
4 of 6John Granen
Take advantage of the rectangle.
Design tip: Rectangular rooms are easier to live in and furnish than square rooms, according to condo owner Erik Barr. "Because their sides are unequal, rectangles give you a sense of movement, whereas squares are just static."
John Granen
5 of 6John Granen
Simplicity helps a small space.
Design tip: The counter and backsplash are the same material ― Jerusalem Gold limestone ― for an uncluttered look. A wide farmhouse sink is mounted under the counter for easy clean-up.
John Granen
6 of 6John Granen
Contrast enlivens an interior.
Design tip: In the sunroom, the floor, lower cabinetry, and seating anchor the space in darker hues while upper walls around the windows maximize the light. Pillows and art vases in blues and greens echo the color of the light. A mixture of soft and hard textures, from the deep shag rug to the sharp edges of the window seat and cabinets creates a balanced design.