The owners of this 1760s colonial wanted a highly functional and interesting space with many thoughtfully rendered materials in it. They wanted space to entertain and socialize while having a hard-working functional kitchen. The existing kitchen had been remodeled in the 1970s and had no historic charm or interest which allowed for freedom of design expression. The end product is intended to look artistic and unique while reflecting a patina throughout that subtly ties the kitchen back in with the feel of the original house.
The original early 1800s timber frame was exposed and cleaned up and second floor space was removed to relieve the 6′-6″ cramped ceiling height. The flooring is reclaimed beech from a factory in New Bedford. The scars from years of machinery wheels were carefully left in the floor to reflect the material’s natural patina and a dark stained border was used to outline the entire space for accent. Plaster was tinted with dry pigment before being applied and sealed with three coats of a clear finish. The perimeter counters are concrete etched with layers of different color acid washes while the island is 4″-thick end-grain butcher block. The cabinetry was painted by a decorative painter and shows texture and a layered color technique. The backsplashes are tile murals in the style of mid–19th-century itinerant painter Rufus Porter. General space lighting is achieved through two runs of cable lights that span the 20′ length of the kitchen.
Overlooking the kitchen is a home office balcony that gives visitors an overview of the activity and vibrancy of the overall space below. The built-in cabinets and desk in the office are mahogany with layered painted panels and green glass knobs.
This project is stunning in its artistic and colorful detail. Every surface has been thoughtfully designed and crafted.
