Kitchen Exhibit with latest design practices

When REMODELING decided to crate a state-of-the-art Dream Kitchen as the centerpiece of the 2003 Remodelers' Show in Baltimore, we asked designer Christopher Coleman to provide attendees with the hottest, most innovative products and designs. He worked with product sponsors to create this kitchen exhibit, which features the latest design practices.

Coleman, of Coleman Design, wanted to create a family-friendly kitchen that could accommodate a range of activities. "Everyone is usually vying for the same area," Coleman says. The Brooklyn, N.Y., designer created stations throughout the 20-by-22-foot kitchen, including a baking area, a cozy seating nook, and a buffet counter. The multi-level center island holds a preparation area, a desk, entertainment space, and seating. Two kids can sit in the banquette and watch TV or sit at the desk doing homework while a parent cooks, or the parent can sit at the banquette to look through cookbooks, Coleman explains.

The designer chose contrasting materials and colors to demonstrate the ease of mixing and matching for a creative look. He used dark cherry lower cabinets, off-white upper cabinets, green glass in the doors, and red countertops. Coleman features a traditional lampshade over the island and more rugged industrial lights on the perimeter. He even mixed metals by using satin nickel appliances, a stainless steel countertop, and dark bronze door hardware.

"I'm trying to show designers not to be afraid to try mixing materials and color. Homeowners are more open to that," Coleman says. Though this specific design might not work in more conservative areas of the country, designers can choose certain elements or more subdued colors to give their clients a truly unique space.

Backsplash

A glass tile backsplash in soft green provides a sharp contrast to the red quartz countertops. Island

This multi-purpose center includes a wet bar, a desk, and a seating area.

Cabinets

The white upper cabinets with opaque green glass inserts complement the cherry base cabinets.

Dishwasher

The raised dishwasher makes loading and unloading more comfortable.

Sinks

The double sink under the window and a round prep sink in the island are two of the kitchen's three sinks.

Flooring

The designer says the red border around the green vinyl flooring brings the floor to life. A narrow metallic vinyl band matches the stainless steel appliances.

Baked Goods

The combination dishwasher/sink in the baking area provides a water source and a place to clean utensils. The deep slots above the double oven store trays and baking sheets.

Island Fever

The designer created the island using a combination of materials and countertop surfaces. The table is made of four pieces of glass that bridge the prep sink area and desk. An adjacent banquette provides additional seating and shelves for cookbooks and collectibles.

Clever Storage

Cleanup is quick and easy with a large sink, raised dishwasher and nearby trash compactor. The designer also fitted small shelves into the base cabinets for wine storage.

What's Cooking

The cooktop has plenty of counter space on both sides for food preparation. The nearby drawers and upper cabinets store frequently used spices and ingredients.

Glass Act

In an unusual twist, the designer placed fixed square windows in the backsplash. The long counter below is perfect for a buffet when entertaining.