Leawood Modern Mix

The vision for this project was a light, warm and inviting contemporary space that blends white high-gloss cabinetry with other muted warm tones throughout the home. The goal was to have an open space conducive to entertaining and family gatherings, helping with homework and as a home office area. A desire for unique design details and materials and high functionality were important to the project.

The design team’s main challenge was to redesign a space that fit the clients’ lifestyle within the space allotted. The redesign eliminated the butler’s pantry to allow for a larger, more open kitchen. A sliding backsplash storage unit was designed behind the range, capturing needed storage space with marble sliding panels for closure. An engineered walnut veneer added warmth and visual texture. On the island, a “social sink” was placed at one end to allow for multiple users, thus expanding the countertop work area. In the home office area, file drawers were added, and a lift-up wall cabinet keeps everyone organized and devices charged.

Calacatta Lincoln marble in the range area provides a unique focal point as the main design detail in the kitchen. The designers chose a flat grain rift-cut white oak for the wet bar countertop, custom-stained to match the engineered walnut cabinetry panels. This top has a permanent finish that is impervious to water and stains. Built-in refrigeration with cabinetry panels mirrors the large pantry cabinetry. The mixing of stainless, brass and black finishes adds to the feeling of warmth and ties in with other finishes throughout the home.