The kitchen in a 1906 San Francisco Victorian house was extremely outdated, but definitely not in a charming, inspired way, interior designer Chantal Lamberto says. “There were things that were not working properly, like cabinets that didn’t go all the way to the ceiling and a built-in desk that was taking up valuable space and becoming cluttered,” she adds.
R. Brad Knipstein
Chantal’s clients each had different ideas for the kitchen redesign—she wanted something warm and welcoming and he wanted something that felt more modern. But, they both agreed on one important thing: The space needed to feel appropriate for the history and architecture of the home.
A design that feels inviting, warm, contemporary, and that fits in with Victorian style? It might seem like a tall order, but Chantal and team got to work in making the space check off all the boxes on her clients’ wishlist.
R. Brad Knipstein
The biggest change to the kitchen was relocating the appliances so more seating and counter space could be added. The couple loves to cook and wanted a space for friends to gather.
“There wasn’t enough room for an island but we were able to squeeze in a peninsula,” Chantal explains. “We also really wanted to take full advantage of the ceiling height, bringing the cabinets up to the ceiling, and adding transoms over the doors.”
R. Brad Knipstein
The slab countertop on the peninsula feature a curved edge that looks very modern and stylish. It took a skilled fabricator to achieve the look seamlessly. Chantal says he expertly mitred the curves, taking great care to match the veining. The exceptional craftsmanship elevates the space even more.
R. Brad Knipstein
The trickiest part of the renovation was the venting of the hood, Chantal recalls. “The easiest way to vent was right over the exterior door and I just envisioned meat smells circulating back into the room,” she says. “The brilliant contractor was able to use the back of the very upper cabinets to route the vent out the back of the house and far away from doors and windows.”
The new design strikes the right balance between historic and vintage, and present day. The kitchen now has character, while being practical for its culinary-loving owners.
