When designer and client are sympatico, transformative magic happens. That was the case for this 32-square-metre kitchen in a Washington, D.C., new-build. The owners wanted classic elements contrasted with a bit of whimsy, and Toronto-based designer Ali Budd excels at melding the divergent looks. “My team and I love blending different aesthetics to give each space a character that’s unique to the clients,” says Budd, who is also the star of reality lifestyle series House of Ali, which is now streaming in the U.S. on Hulu and is set to premiere on HGTV Canada this year. “It keeps the design process exciting, and no two spaces are ever the same.”
Budd fashioned this kitchen with real life in mind. The owners have two young children, a dog and a large extended family, and they love to entertain, so functionality was paramount. But full-throttle style was also part of the recipe. This is a place where dramatically veined Calacatta Corchia marble mingles contentedly with warm white oak and where blackened-steel light fixtures are besties with golden burnished brass.
These design elements form easy-on-the-eyes counterpoints to hard-working concealed features, including a butler’s pantry, a food pantry, a wine fridge and an additional oven. “We kept things minimal but with tons of storage,” says Budd. “This is a kosher kitchen, so we needed ample space for multiple sets of dishes and cutlery.” The symmetry of the two islands (one features counter seating, the other acts as a prep area) is upscale and organized and furthers the multi-functional factor. “I love how balanced this kitchen feels,” she adds. “Multiple people can work in it comfortably at the same time, and it’s the perfect mix of modern and traditional.”
1) Metal Winner
“This kitchen just called for brass,” says designer Ali Budd. Its burnished warmth is a nice foil to the cool tones of the marble, and the range hood is a showstopper. “It keeps the room visually interesting and bright.”
2) Green Energy
A dark-green Lacanche range layers in warm colour, adding a playful vibrance to the kitchen. It features two full-size ovens, six burners and a cast-iron simmer plate. The brass knobs comple- ment the custom-made range hood as well as the faucets and hardware throughout the kitchen.
3) Island Hopping
Two double-width islands ensure that meal prep is a breeze. Each has its own sink, dishwasher and garbage pullout; one has storage on both sides, and the other offers counter seating. “One can be used for prep space while the other can be used for cleaning up as you go,” Budd says. “Both can be used to present food buffet-style.”
4) Detailed Finish
“The millwork draws from more classic inspiration,” says Budd. “But the furniture and lighting elements lend a more contemporary edge, especially the lights above the island, which we’ve positioned to mirror each other.”
5) Hidden Agenda
For a streamlined and minimal look, smaller appliances, such as the microwave and an additional oven, are hidden behind panelled millwork. Bespoke features, such as slotted vertical inserts for trays, spice dividers and cutlery dividers, ensure there is a place for everything.
