MAKEOVER: A Dream Kitchen by Erica Gelman

Form and function went hand-in-hand on this project. One of the most significant design decisions was the lighting plan. Starting early meant we could accommodate task, ambient and mood illumination throughout the space. One of the most important elements of design is function and without an effective lighting plan, the kitchen would not reach its full potential. This design rule applies to any space, especially ones with insufficient natural lighting. Imagine working months on choosing finishes that could possibly be hidden in darkness. Other high impact design components were the smallest details; those are the ones that give the space its unique look. To create floor dimension and emphasize the twenty-five foot long kitchen, we decided on twelve by twenty-four inch marble tiles and accented them with contrasting mosaics to produce large rectangular shapes on the ground. This type of tile effect can also be produced in any hard surface area such as in bathroom showers, back splashes and floors. You don’t have to choose just one basic tile, you can mix and match to incorporate high-end with budget-friendly materials. The kitchen itself followed many design principles which can be interpreted into countless spaces. Focal point, balance, lighting, form and function equal a recipe for a classic and timeless design. It’s easy to create impact in your space by paying attention to the smallest details and fashioning a space that works for your home.