1. Light Fantastic
Luna Globe pendants from Downtown make a statement. Track lighting is for tasks. And whimsical polished nickel, brass, and acrylic "organ pipes" hang from the tops of the windows and sparkle, interspersed with LED puck lights.
2. Brass Details
There's a warm gleam to the brass trim on the cast-limestone hood, the brass hardware on the stainless steel cabinets flanking the Dacor range, and the brass faucets by Quinn for Rubinet. "Putting something warm on something cool works so well."
3. Moody Blues
The dark color of Pratt & Larson's Rustic tile sets off the hood, and its large scale — 6 by 10 inches — suits the large room. Instead of merely doing a backsplash, Quinn ran the tile up to the ceiling. "It feels more like a French bistro this way. I love that look."
4. Island Hopping
The 5-by-11-foot island not only changes levels but also materials to make it look less massive. The walnut counter by Grothouse Lumber is on casters; it can be moved anywhere to become a separate buffet.
5. Seamless Sinks
Twin sinks at either end of the island, made out of the same Helix Silestone as the countertop, free up the center. "It's a modern twist on an old farmhouse sink, and they look monumental, which adds a hint of antiquity."