For our March Classic or Craze, we asked local design professionals about gilded furnishings and accessories. Gilding has been used since ancient times to add shine and shimmer to furnishings and accessories. Fine gold, silver, copper or aluminum leaf powder is applied to objects. Here’s what our local professionals had to say. 

Open, beautiful and bright, the kitchen designed by Marc Christian Fine Cabinetry and Jamieson Interior Design was part of a complete first-floor remodel. New ceiling beams, elliptical arched doorways and millwork were installed to unify the space and add architectural interest. Window frames were painted black for contrast. The custom perimeter cabinetry was finished to match the new millwork, and the contrasting ebony-stained island was built to hold Wolf ovens, a warming drawer and a microwave drawer.

A blended family of seven was looking for a cohesive setting for the family to gather. BaumHouse design worked with the homeowners to open up the space and make it more family friendly. The homeowner disliked the existing island, stand-alone table and cluttered desk area. The designer opened the space between the kitchen and dining room and also removed a large soffit over the island. A narrow walk-in pantry was removed. With such a large family, a beverage refrigerator was included in the island on the opposite side from the working aisle of the kitchen for serving ease.

Castle Design completely transformed this kitchen into a bright and colorful space with newly painted cabinets, new backsplash tile, colorful fabrics and coordinating window treatments. The homeowner is from Louisiana, so adding a New Orleans flair to the space was a must. The designer was inspired by the colorful and modern print of Vervain Secret Garden fabric. Counter stools were upholstered in the fabric and custom pillows were made for the room adjacent to the kitchen. Refinishing the cabinets and painting the walls set a light and airy backdrop.

The existing kitchen in this historic home was a dark and crowded 60-square-foot space. Designer Karr Bick Kitchen & Bath took the out-of-date space and made it work for a modern-day family by combining it with an under-utilized kitchen-table area. To take advantage of the total space, a side window was closed off in the eating area, which created wall space to accommodate appliances and enlarge the work triangle. A radiator was moved to open the entry into the dining room and allow for an island with seating.