Taking cues from the architecture of this Mediterranean-style home, we brought old-world influence to this modern kitchen. Cabinetry, with an updated, diminutive Shaker profile, runs along the perimeter of the room, blending seamlessly with the traditional wainscoting finished in the same shade of earthy, undersaturated green. Nearby, the custom hutch is finished in a rich ebonized oak with a contrasting interior. By choosing a mix of finishes for these pieces, we created the impression of free-standing furniture and a room evolved over time. We contributed to this classic tone by choosing materials that become more storied with age like matte-yet-luminous honed marble countertops, burnished brass faucets and a natural walnut finish on the island.

To provide contrast, we also introduced bolder, contemporary elements. Curvilinear, sculptural pieces furnish the breakfast nook, framed by drapery with a hand-painted abstract pattern. The fanciful brass appliques on the surface of the breakfast table are illuminated from above by a sculptural pendant made of brass. Nearby, the intersecting arches of the oak room divider are a contemporary take on Art Nouveau.

When selecting fine art to complete this space, we chose pieces by Black women artists working in a range of mediums—Tawny Chatmon’s Renaissance-influenced photography, Lauren Pearce’s oil-on-canvas portraiture, Christa David’s original collage pieces, and Marie Alexander’s mixed-media work.

Photographer: Suzanna Scott Photography