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By : Catlin Stothers Design
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Interior Design
Categories : Residence / Kitchen : Platinum Winner
Various notable architectural details provided an exciting point of departure for Catlin Stothers Design in the re-design this 1960 split level Montreal home.
The original configuration on the main floor was fragmented, with a small kitchen under the shadows of a dropped ceiling. The lack of natural light created a dim and cavernous atmosphere, and would become one of the first areas to contend with from a design perspective. Raising the ceilings to their full heights and removing the majority of interior walls immediately presented the design potential for the main floor. Window and door openings facing the garden were reconfigured and enlarged to optimize site lines from the future kitchen to the new terrace and swimming pool. These interventions resulted in a vastness within the space, along with creating a much greater connection to the exterior, which provided CS Design with an open canvas for the design of the kitchen.
The clients’ mandate for a highly functional chef’s kitchen also needed the new design to be conducive to hosting large family events yet maintain a sense of intimacy when enjoyed more regularly by the young family of four. The generous proportions of the main level allowed for a very spacious yet simple floor plan for the kitchen that would maximize flow. A large walk-in butler’s kitchen serves as an extension to the kitchen, exploiting storage, natural light, and incorporating consistent materials. Several zones in the kitchen were designed to service multiple tasks simultaneously within a fluid and cohesive context.
A fifteen-foot wall would become one of the various features in the kitchen due it its monolithic presence. Built-in cabinetry extends to the peak of the sloped ceiling, providing an abundance of concealed storage and the convenience of a breakfast counter. The intention was for this wall to appear more like panels rather than cabinetry. With the exception of the panelled fridges, visible handles were avoided to maintain a seamless and minimal look.
Materials were selected by CS Design for their inherent attributes to create a dramatic and inviting atmosphere. The abundance of natural light inspired a subdued palette throughout, which marries deep shades of anthracite and natural white oak cabinetry with golden engineered wood flooring. Texture is introduced through the rift-cut oak cabinet doors along with the veining of the quartz counters, backsplash and hood surround. The rich combination of materials is complemented by sleek lines and unadorned forms.
Lighting presented various challenges due to the high, sloped ceilings. Recessed lights were incorporated to strategically highlight the millwork and main working counters, and supplemented by led lighting strips that were installed within selected interior cabinetry. The oversized pendants above the island are a distinctive focal point and were selected by CS Design to inject a fun and architectural statement within the kitchen. Their contoured forms provide contrast to the otherwise angular and linear environment, and the deep anthracite shade colour blends with the tone-on-tone palette of the surrounding materials. The dining experience at the island can be appreciated by the soft, diffused light which illuminates the space.
Catlin Stothers Design placed a strong emphasis on balancing form and function through several design contradictions ; Imposing yet inviting, simple yet a statement, luxurious yet understated.
Collaboration
Interior Designer : CATLIN STOTHERS DESIGN
General Contractor : NEWSAM CONSTRUCTION
