Modern Warmth in a University Hills Kitchen

For so many people the kitchen is the heart of the home. Where more than a few gatherings happen, the kitchen is a place of warmth, connection and joy. It’s critical that functionality unites with style within this revered room, as it can showcase personality alongside utility. 

At Ai STUDiO, we are constantly inspired by collaboration with others, and we bring our practical and sophisticated expertise to fulfill our client’s vision. This University Hills kitchen remodel exemplifies exactly that: a modern approach to the most heart-warming room of the house. It’s chic yet inviting; contemporary yet classic; open yet welcoming; and it all begins with our client’s vision. 

Our own Michele Peerbolt was the lead designer on this project, where she utilized the open area produced by an expansion of the existing Kitchen and worked closely with her clients to bring this thoughtfully curated remodel to fruition. 

“My clients tend to be the inspiration. Every project starts with getting to know the homeowners; their functional needs, personality, and their aesthetic dreams. I am inspired to bring their vision to life,” Michele says. 

Clients can expect a hands-on experience from our design experts when working with Ai STUDiO, including big design planning down to the final details. Designing custom solutions and clear communication with the client assisted in the creation of this kitchen, which is full of chic additions including the dark-toned cabinetry to the spacious island bar. 

“This couple had a firm grasp on what they wanted, they just couldn’t find a plan that solved their needs. I developed three or four options to start with, and we finished by combining two of them. Their heart was in it,” Michele said. 

The kitchen touts a mixture of warm walnut material beside darker materials that undoubtedly pop against the bright white countertops. The cabinetry, provided by KG Cabinetry, are from Crestwood, and this project features the Crestwood cabinet line and comes in Quarter Sawn Gray Oak reconstituted veneer and Flat Cut Walnut reconstituted veneer. Michele was drawn to the sleek but imperfect subtle linear pattern within the gray oak, and ultimately knew that was the best pick to pair with walnut and fulfill her client’s aesthetic needs. 

Michele’s key strategy behind this kitchen? Simplicity. 

“There were only about half a dozen materials in this project, but they were designed and applied in artistic and unusual ways. Natural stone on the walls, two cabinet materials, walnut accents, white quartz and new wood flooring. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? That’s how I think some of my most successful projects appear,” Michele explained.

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DESIGN DETAILS: Design Awaken Interiors awakeninteriors.com Kitchen/Cabinetry KG Cabinetry kgcabinetry.com General Contractor Artigiano