Almost-invisible hand pulls create a “hidden pantry” in the major kitchen re-do of this Greenville home — and that magical minimalism distinguishes the entire project. The smooth panels look like they might open by voice command to reveal an aged gourmet cheese or rare madeira.
The idea of vintage edibles aside, this dazzling project is thoroughly modern. A hit on Houzz, the room features the “Contempo Haven for Two” collection by Wood-Mode. The aesthetic was chosen by Kris and Julie Atwood of Atwood: Fine Architectural Cabinetry in collaboration with the homeowners, who wanted a modern vibe to go with their collection of mid-century furniture, for a ’40s-era house they lived next to for 20 years before it finally came up for sale.
Kris notes that the kitchen space was expanded to a footprint that now includes the adjoining family room and breakfast nook. Edges are modern, beautifully sleek, even futuristic. One of the owners, a graphic designer, reveals that the outside of the house is very traditional. Friends and neighbors might have expected an interior with imposing cabinetry and the thick, beveled prep island and countertops most associated with stately abodes.
“Everyone assumed we wanted granite in the kitchen, but no,” she says. “We wanted flat surfaces, not a lot of hardware, and with everything flush to the front.” The entire wall behind the sink and range is devoid of upper cabinetry — a right-now trend that does wonders to augment light and spaciousness. On the opposite wall, storage is tucked behind understated vertical cabinets in Matte Eclipse Oak, next to a compact trio of shelves with glass fronts.
Square-edge countertops in Gulf Shores Laminate and Caesar Stone quartz add refined gleam.
Amid all the neutral metallics, a George Nelson starburst clock lends cheeky rainbow color. Also bringing the fun are pendants over the kitchen island that look like jolly pods of descending spaceships. Restored hardwood floors in white oak, original to the home, warm the scheme.
Kris gets praise for his “tireless attention to detail” and an architectural eye that was crucial in uniting all the various elements: he nailed ticklishly tight measurements in a way the homeowner says was “nothing short of a miracle.”
RESOURCES
Interior/Kitchen Designer Kris Atwood, Atwood: Fine Architectural Cabinetry
Architect Jack Thacker
Builder Peery Homes, Inc.
Cabinetry Atwood: Fine Architectural Cabinetry
Countertops Campbell Tile, Inc.
Lighting Harrison Lighting
Appliances Jeff Lynch Appliance