For the busy, modern family, the kitchen serves as the hub of the home. From homework to hosting, the space must meet many needs. In this Riverdale residential redesign project, designer Lana Zepponi Meyers of LZM Interiors used her diverse background in furniture, art, textiles and kitchens to meticulously implement this client's wish to lighten up and open up an outdated space to best serve their family in style.
Lana's experience as a designer has "wandered around the home," as she puts it. From working in New York's vibrant art scene while also studying interior design, to her move to Memphis for a job in the furniture business—which subsequently led to a certification in kitchen and bath design—she truly has done it all. "I get so excited when asked to design a kitchen, but I love all facets of design and decoration. Often, a project starts with one room, such as the kitchen, and the scope meanders into furnishing and decorating other rooms."
The clients enlisted Lana to make their dream kitchen a reality. They host many celebrations, from holidays to watch parties, throughout the year for family and friends and needed a kitchen space conducive to their entertaining style. As with all design projects, and especially a kitchen, it is important to understand the intentions of the client, says Lana. "There are so many questions that need to be answered to design a custom kitchen, but the first thing I ask is: 'Do you cook?' Then, 'Who do you want to spend time here, and how?' More serious cooks may not want a space that invites gathering in the kitchen. It’s the same with other rooms. Is the goal privacy or gathering? And how can we support that intent in a way that delights whoever is using this room?"
In this project, walls were moved to open up the kitchen to the den and make the room part of one large gathering space. The home's dining room was then repurposed to create an inviting butler's pantry/bar space for guests to land for a cup of coffee or even a cocktail and clandestine conversation. Darker wallpaper, cabinetry and trim transformed this once-formal space into a cozy getaway. Meanwhile, an adjacent living room now serves as the dining room, while a cozy banquette nook sees a lot of action no matter what the occasion.
Lana enlisted LM.Designs to craft the custom cabinetry throughout the new space. The design firm also offered many smart storage solutions, such as a charging drawer, hardwareless touch-to-open cabinets under the bar overhang, and a hidden broom closet next to the refrigerator.
Lightening up the space was paramount to the client's aesthetic. They did not want to lose the natural light that comes in from the window at the heart of the room. The chosen backsplash surrounding the window provided the perfect place to add an artful and playful pattern for personality and interest.
"The client loves flowers and the Memphis Tigers, so a floral blue tile was the perfect fit. She is spunky and modern but a traditionalist at heart. The antiqued brass sconces warm it up and give it a classic touch."