Decorating & Design
Dare To Go Dark? Tour This Moody Kitchen To See How It’s Done
Published on October 23, 2020
A Calgary couple had recently become empty-nesters and were craving a kitchen that would fit their more social lifestyle. Empire Kitchen & Bath designer Mark Cayen collaborated with Empire owner Kevin Mullen and Arizona design firm Wiseman and Gale to revamp the 464-square-foot kitchen with a moody palette and a more open layout. The chrome- and steel-trimmed La Cornue range and matching island were the first (and most important) design elements; then came the sumptuous black subway tile and dark slabs of granite that ensured a smooth transition from wall to counter. “The abundance of natural light allowed us to use black without it feeling too heavy,” says Mark.
Scroll down to learn more about this European-inspired kitchen!
“Not every kitchen allows for such decorative detail, but this space and client were perfect for it,” says Mark. He added decorative beams and white lampshade-style pendants for a chic gathering place that’s perfect for dinner parties.
The owners’ collection of fine china decorates a trio of rift-cut white oak shelves. “They have a great appreciation for art and design,” says Mark. For contrast and texture, he had the lower perimeter cabinets painted cream and installed rift-cut white oak cabinets (below).
Glass-fronted cabinets keep the breakfast area from feeling too heavy. “Blending woods can be tricky; if you stay within the same species, you can play with a mix of stains and textures,” says Mark.
How To Get The Look
- Chrome- and steel-trimmed range and island
- Black subway tile and blackened granite counters
- White lower cabinets and rift-cut white oak uppers
- Lampshade-style pendants
- Dark wide-plank hardwood floors
House & Home October 2020
Mark Cayen, Empire Kitchen & Bath & Wiseman and Gale