Confident in her signature youthful zing, designer Angie Hranowsky goes for gray in this Indianapolis kitchen that's serene but not subdued. It's open and airy, and it also functions brilliantly. "There's something soothing about gray," says Hranowsky. "It's neutral but not dull, and I'm so tired of white kitchens."
No wonder she was excited to find the Marmara marble, vein-cut to show off the striations that look like stripes. "It feels more modern than the usual Carrara, but it's also classic, which is exactly the mood I wanted — clean and fresh, but traditional at the same time."
1. A Cluster of Pendants
The square configuration puts the light where you actually need it, on each side of the island, rather than in the middle. Industrial hanging lights in antique brass finish from Circa Lighting, and the barstools are by Lostine.
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2. Weathered Tile
"It's longer and more narrow than subway tile, and I love the pitted, handmade texture," says Hranowsky, who likes to cover as much wall as the budget allows to add interest. Grove Brickworks field tile is by Waterworks.
3. Pantry Cabinets
They hide the microwave and take the place of uppers, making the space feel more open. Details like legs suggest furniture. The cabinetry is painted in Timeless Gray and ceiling in Seed Pearl, both by Pratt & Lambert.
4. Open Shelf
One long floating shelf is "nice and simple, and it's the most convenient way to store the dishes you use every day," says Hranowsky. Since the glasses and plates are in constant use, they never stay long enough to collect dust.
5. Drawers
Instead of lower cabinets, the designer prefers drawers. "As soon as you pull one out, you can see everything in it, rather than having to squat down and dig through a cabinet." Organic Square pulls are by Rocky Mountain Hardware.
This article originally appeared in the November 2015 issue of House Beautiful.
