While Amy Wuest and Team KSI finalize the family’s floor plans, Mike and Amy Driehorst have been busy selecting the actual components of their new kitchen.
Their primary objectives included an updated (but not-too-trendy) style, maximizing storage, and keeping things practical for a busy young family. That meant durable, easy-to-clean surfaces, in colors and patterns that won’t show dirt too readily. (Amy even asked if the floor could be matched to the color of their dog’s muddy footprints!)
The first stop was the local KSI showroom. In her design questionnaire, Amy Driehorst had described the desired “feel” of the new kitchen as “country, traditional, open” and noted a preference for tight-grained woods like maple and cherry. At KSI, the Driehorsts were able to see firsthand all the styles, colors, and finishes available in the Merillat Classic® line of cabinetry, along with numerous countertop samples to consider.
While there, Amy Wuest showed the Driehorsts some space-saving accessories, including a lazy susan, pantry pullouts, base cabinet rollout shelves for garbage and recycling, even specialized storage for lids and cookware.
With so many possibilities to consider, the Driehorsts took some time to reflect on their options before coming back to finalize their design decisions.
In the end, a palette of earth tones proved to be the winning formula. Amy Wuest says, “This palette works well for them because it’s not too dark for the small space, and not so light that it’s impractical for a family with kids.”
But don’t confuse neutral with boring. The mix of materials and textures provides a high level of sophistication and visual interest. The maple cabinets are a medium sable stain, and feature the Seneca Ridge Arch door style with oil-rubbed bronze knobs. The Driehorsts also selected a granite countertop in Desert Brown to complement the rich color of the cabinets. (Granite has distinctive natural variations. So while they based their decision on a showroom sample at KSI, they later traveled to Great Lakes Granite & Marble to select that actual slab that would be used in their kitchen.)
Seneca Ridge: Maple Sable
The old brick backsplash is being replaced with a gorgeous porcelain tile called Pietra D’Assisi. The tile is in variegated hues of Mocha with glass and stone tile accents. A Keruing wood floor from ProSource WholeSale Floorcoverings was selected to replace the old kitchen floor and extend into the dining room as well. The walls will be Sherwin Williams Mexican Sand, with trim done in Biscuit.
With most of the room done in medium earth tones, the room could afford a few dramatic accents. Black appliances from Appliance Center will add an updated appearance, and provide visual anchors that can help create the appearance of a larger space.
You can also follow Amy’s side of the story through her own blog — gotta love the title — My Chaotic Bliss.
