Homeowner Audrey McAlinden went into the renovation process with a clear vision and endless inspiration. Tackling the challenge of orchestrating a full gut renovation of her 120-year-old kitchen, she was looking to upgrade her space to be more functional while incorporating her personal style and aesthetic. “The vision was to create a sense of increased space within the small kitchen area without major changes to the overall template or layout,” says Audrey. Looking for the perfect teammate for the project, Audrey hired Rick Detling-Nusser of RND Renovations following a friend’s recommendation.
“I am often asked to build within the current trends and styling, which look fantastic, but can become repetitive and ‘cookie-cutter’ as a busy contractor,” Rick says. “It was a treat and reprieve to work with Audrey and build something that is truly a one-of-a-kind.”
To create this truly unique space, some major changes had to be made to the original kitchen. A non-supporting beam between the kitchen and dining room was removed, and soffits were eliminated to allow for taller wall cabinets. To increase storage, the size of the peninsula was increased, and Audrey opted for a smaller 18” dishwasher to allow for an extra cabinet and drawer.
“Starting from a blank slate gave me the opportunity to really add my own personal style and aesthetic to the space,” says Audrey. “I decided to be the interior designer for the project and, while it was a lot of work in terms of research and sourcing products, it was a very enjoyable and positive experience.”
Drawing inspiration from nature, the cabinets are covered in Peale Green by Benjamin Moore, a calming, natural green. “Since I enjoy working and relaxing in my back garden, the concept of having a ‘green kitchen’ was an appealing and lovely way to connect the two spaces,” she says. Aged brass cabinet hardware from deVOL Kitchens adds a sparkle to the space and ties in nicely with the art deco-inspired backsplash. Graniterra, a local company, assisted with ordering and installing the porcelain countertops that add a practical, neutral design element to the space.
A Fossil Blu farmhouse sink and white-washed oak floating shelves by Urbandi bring additional functionality to the kitchen and offer a unique blend of styles. “I enjoy experimenting with different styles and weaving them together within a defined space,” Audrey mentions. Drawing inspiration from art deco and farmhouse designs, vintage pieces and modern and mid-century modern decor, she created a kitchen aesthetic that was completely unique to her personal style.
“Working with Audrey was ideal as a contractor,” says Rick. “Audrey had a well-thought-out vision for this space and was able to effectively communicate that vision to me before we started and during the project. When you work with an individual who has a vision and has done the research, it allows me as the contractor to stay focused on executing that vision.”
Additionally, Audrey speaks highly of Rick and the help he provided. “It was truly a pleasure to work with Rick Detling throughout the three and half month project,” she says. “He took the time to understand what I wanted to create and laid out a reasonable and transparent work plan.”
When asked about her favorite feature in her new kitchen, Audrey can’t decide. “I personally love the way everything blends and flows together well,” she says. “It brings me joy every day. I’m grateful to Rick and his team for turning my vision into reality and, importantly, my cats are delighted with their new space.”
Resources:
Treasured Thistle Wallpaper in powder room (made by Borastapeter, a Swedish company).
Polished marble and brass mosiac tile by Vanessa Deleon.
Appliances: Ilve inductrion oven, Z-Line built in fridge/freezer; Bosch dishwasher
Hardware fixtures: DeVol kitchens; Kohler faucet
Cabinet Paint: Peale Green by Benjamin Moore.
Wall Paint: Aged White by Sherwin Williams (thanks to Maggie Ventura at Ventura Color
Design for some color consultation).
Aged Brass Cabinet Hardware: deVOL Kitchens, England.
Countertops: Mosstone porcelain by Caesarstone. A special mention to local company,
Graniterra, for ordering and installation.
Custom Brass Range Hood: Fobest
Art Deco Marble & Brass Mosaic Tile by Vanessa Deleon (online purchase)
Floor Tiles: Provenzal Alhama Cotto Porcelain (The Tile Shop, St Louis).
Farmhouse Kitchen Sink: Fossil Blu
Vintage style lighting (wall and countertop): Pooky Lighting
Floating Shelves: White-washed oak by Urbandi
General Inspiration: deVOL Kitchens and Nina Watson Interiors (@artdecojewel on Instagram).
