Tour an Inviting, Traditional Kitchen in Dallas

A kitchen by design firm Collins & Sweezey reveals the soft, warm side of classic floor-to-ceiling cabinetry.

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It was a slab of rare Blue Macaubas quartzite — now on the island — that caught their eye. "The watery blues felt warm and cool at the same time," says designer Katie Collins. She and her partner, Martha Sweezey, picked up the blues with a Moroccan tile backsplash and gave the white oak cabinetry a cerused finish to bring out the grain. "It's natural and handcrafted — a new direction after the white, industrial look."

An Inviting Room Full of Well-Chosen Details
1. Different Stones The Blue Macaubas is used only on the island "to keep it special," Sweezey says. Perimeter countertops in Cedar marble echo one of the earthy tones in the handmade Idris tile from Ann Sacks on the backsplash.

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2. Unique Finishes
A custom blue paint on the island is rubbed off in places to make it feel as if it has been there forever. The distinctive finish turns the island into a focal point and complements the cerused-oak cabinetry.

3. Clean-lined Faucet
Perrin & Rowe's Contemporary Bridge faucet with lever handles combines a traditional bridge with a sleek gooseneck spout that's high enough to accommodate the tallest pot. Available through Rohl.

4. Wood Flooring
Engineered white oak planks by Graf Brothers, rift- and quartersawn in varying lengths, are easy on the feet and the budget. The dark stain relates to the rest of the floors in the house; a polyurethane seal adds durability.

5. Antique Lantern
A pendant is a convenient way to provide task lighting for the island and another opportunity to add character. Made from an old cloche, this lantern is simple and elegant rather than cold and utilitarian.

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Get the Look:
1. Paint Tropical Surf. By Glidden. $25 per gallon.