kitchen

Island. “Given that we were a bit limited with wall space for large appliances, we worked a set of freezer drawers into the island, across from the full-sized Sub-Zero refrigerator column,” designer Emily Karempelis says. “This prevented us from having to step up the overall width of a refrigerator-freezer combination unit.” There’s also a microwave drawer, placed in the island to keep the look of the kitchen streamlined and to have it near the pantry and refrigerator. Other special features. Recessed appliances that sit flush with cabinets. Wall-mounted sconces over the sink. Walk-in pantry. Reclaimed-barn-wood accent on range hood. Designer secret. “As a designer, I am always looking to create balance and symmetry,” Karempelis says. “In this case, we were a bit landlocked, and recessing the appliances into the wall threw off the centerline of the island and the kitchen sink. Instead of drawing attention to this by adding pendant lights over the island, we instead kept can lighting in the kitchen and used some fun wall-mounted sconces over the kitchen window to draw your eyes through the kitchen space while also providing additional lighting for one of the main working surfaces in...

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SalvageThis is a German Silver sink original to this 1920s home, but you can get an unusual look like this yourself if you’re willing to put in some time looking. Try searching for early restaurant sinks to find sizes not often seen in homes. Here’s a start: Houzz pro Grampas Antique Kitchen has a great selection of vintage sinks.

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Soapstone is denser than granite and marble and is not porous, so it can stand up to acids, stains and hot water. But you’ll have to be someone who considers nicks and stains as lending your sink character, because they will happen. Learn more about soapstone sinks

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