For nearly three decades, Jim and Eileen Barna, owners of TrueLeaf Kitchens, have been transforming kitchens into stunning, functional spaces that reflect their clients’ personalities and lifestyles. With a design philosophy rooted in timelessness and practicality, TrueLeaf Kitchens has become a trusted name in Somerset Hills for creating dream kitchens that blend beauty with purpose.
For our Somerset Hills Kitchen Showcase, Jim and Eileen share highlights from four of their favorite recent remodels, showcasing their attention to detail and ability to tailor designs to meet unique needs.
The Brick and Marble Masterpiece
One standout project involved a kitchen where the client wanted a mix of rustic charm and modern elegance. “They had two windows flanking a 48-inch range, so we used marble trim around the windows and created a full marble backsplash for a fire-resistant, durable finish,” Jim explains. “Above the cabinets, we added a brick veneer to give the impression of an old brick wall, which made the space feel timeless and unique.”
The kitchen’s centerpiece was a custom wood island with a sink, finished with a marine-grade varnish to ensure durability. “We also built a walk-in pantry into the cabinetry, so it looked like part of the design,” adds Eileen. These thoughtful touches gave the kitchen a cohesive and polished feel while honoring the client’s vision.
The Modern Tudor Transformation
In a Bernardsville Tudor-style home, the Barna's balanced tradition with contemporary elements. “The homeowner wanted a slightly modern flair but didn’t want it to feel out of place with the home’s architecture,” Eileen recalls. The design featured a quartzite countertop and a full-height stone backsplash with carefully aligned veining, creating a seamless flow from the counter to the wall.
The client also opted for subtle modern accents, like sleek light fixtures and a custom stone-front farm sink. “It’s all about adding modern touches without losing the timeless character of the home,” Jim notes.
The Organic Contemporary Kitchen
For a family seeking a warm yet modern kitchen, TrueLeaf Kitchens created what Eileen calls an “organic contemporary” design. The kitchen incorporated wood tones in the cabinetry, countertops, and finishes to balance the clean lines of the modern layout.
The space also included a multipurpose tech area, complete with a concealed desk for computers and devices. “The family wanted a functional space for homework and entertainment, but it needed to look tidy when not in use,” Eileen explains. “We created a built-in desk area that blends seamlessly with the rest of the design.”
A Bold and Artistic Space
Another memorable project, designed in collaboration with interior designer Nicole Forina Home, featured bold choices that pushed creative boundaries. TrueLeaf Kitchens brought the vision to life with dark blue cabinets, brushed gold hardware, and a statement marble backsplash. The centerpiece was a fuchsia-colored range, complemented by a marble countertop with garnet accents that tied the entire design together.
“We love when clients are willing to go bold,” says Jim. “This kitchen became a work of art, with book-matched stone veining and antique mirror inserts in the cabinet doors to add a touch of sophistication.”
Designing for Timeless Functionality
Through each project, TrueLeaf Kitchens emphasizes practicality alongside style. “Trends come and go, but we aim for timeless designs that are both beautiful and functional,” Eileen says. By incorporating features like hidden charging stations, multipurpose work areas, and durable finishes, the Barna's ensure their kitchens stand the test of time.
With their years of experience and a passion for creating personalized spaces, Jim and Eileen Barna continue to set the standard for kitchen design in Somerset Hills. Each project tells a story, blending their clients’ needs and desires with the artistry and craftsmanship that TrueLeaf Kitchens is known for.
For more inspiration and to explore TrueLeaf Kitchens’ portfolio, visit trueleafkitchens.com.
Address: 19 Morristown Rd., Suite B, Basking Ridge, NJ
Phone: 908-766-2006