Inspired by a host of design genres, from arts and crafts to modern industrial, the contemporary kitchen presents virtually unlimited opportunities to express your individuality.  Although trends change rapidly, cabinetry remains the foundation of today’s well-designed kitchen.

With its exposed brick wall, sculptural rug, sleek drapes and tonal palette of soothing grays and taupes, this dining room in a Central West End loft strikes a warm, modern vibe. But when Joni Spear of Joni Spear Interior Design first saw her client’s space, it was a bit plain Jane. “It was pleasant, but it looked almost like a model home—it lacked pizzazz,” she explains.

Irish Island Escape
By Christine Soucy. Photography courtesy of Gordon and Mary Gregg

Architecturally Stunning in Morocco

It’s hard to imagine that the 415-square-foot Old World kitchen was once a dining room, but a few years ago it was where the family gathered to eat their meals, not cook them. After living with their dining room addition for several years, the homeowners decided a room swap was in order to better utilize their space. With the idea to flip the dining room and kitchen, they would create an open, connected space.

The French Door refrigerator has two doors placed side by side with a freezer unit on the bottom giving it a sleek and industrial look. Frequently used items are at a convenient height when opening one of the fridge doors. Flexible storing options can allow for a party platter to safely be kept without rearranging the entire fridge, carefully stacking other items to make room. Not only does the fridge have a stylish look, but also it is energy efficient ,keeping more cold air inside because you only open one door at a time.