If this were my kitchen…

This kitchen is beautiful, isn’t it? The cabinetry and millwork are crisp and classic. The grey beams overhead and dark-stained wood floors add texture, and the lighting is very versatile. In addition, the kitchen has tons of space, big windows, and it opens onto the family room making it the perfect epicenter of this particular home. While speaking with a friend who is looking to purchase a home the other day, she mentioned that she loves the bones of houses like this. The better builders in Houston are doing this “classic New England meets rustic European” thing that seems to be big here. Anyhow, she was concerned that while she had fallen in love with a house similar to the one pictured above, her personal style is more modern and doesn’t lend itself to the “greige, slipcovers, and sisal” look the is so pervasive in Houston. While it’s lovely, she prefers more modern pieces and loves color. Feeling inspired by her particular challenge, I thought, what would I do if I had a kitchen like this? Voila!

I would install these fabulous, oversized Allen Glass Rod Pendants by Ralph Lauren over the island. They would instantly warm up and modernize the space. Then, I would opt for these delicious John Salibello brass tripod stools upholstered in this gorgeous grayish blue velvet.

In the breakfast nook, I would continue the use of glamorous, oversized lighting with this amazing Brass Starburst Ceiling Fixture by Emil Stejnar. From the looks of the space, a round table would work best, so I turned to one of my perennial must-haves, a Saarinen Tulip Table with a white marble top. I would pair it with four Kartell Louis Ghost Chairs—yet another modern classic. To add some color and texture, I would add pillows done in Kelly Wearstler’s Bengal Bazaar fabric in the magenta colorway, which would tie in beautifully with the velvet upholstery on the brass stools. Finally, to add more texture and warmth, I added in this metallic cowhide rug. It wouldn’t be as practical for someone with children, but it looks fantastic. The result is young, fresh, and super glamorous. Can you picture it in the space?