USA Kitchen Trends US Kitchen Renovation Trends Vol. 30/11 | Page 37

tiered, again for space reasons, but interest
comes as much from materials as composition.
The casual dining table is in solid teak and
the cabinetry is all solid oak. Although this has
been painted, the grain of the wood can still be
seen close up. This kitchen also benefits from a
glossy, feature backsplash.
Lighting can be another tricky issue in an
apartment kitchen – for similar reasons to the
plumbing, says Berman.
“For the first kitchen, we avoided entering
the ceiling by running spot lights from three
existing light sockets. For the second design, the

wiring was more accessible. This kitchen has a
lower ceiling than the adjacent rooms and
recessed lighting gives the illusion of a larger
space. I always try to have three light sources in
a design – overhead, under the cabinets, and
internal lighting if the cabinets have glass fronts.
“Under-cabinet lighting shows off a feature
backsplash and also provides a subtle night
light when all the other lights are switched off.”
resources & more images
46129 at trendsideas.com

Above: This kitchen is laid out
in tiers to optimize floor space.
Positioning the sink near the chase
wall that conceals the hot and cold
risers allowed Alan Berman to avoid
additional plumbing. The cabinetry
is in solid oak and the table is teak.
Leather upholstery has been used
on the bench seating. Small cubbies
provide interest and niche storage.
Story by Charles Moxham
Photography by Jamie Cobel

search | save | share at trendsideas.com

35