A client of mine recently came in and her vision was clear: she was looking for a beautiful, welcoming kitchen that blends both style and functionality — after building a new home closer to her family, entertaining with family and friends in mind was a priority in this design. Crafted with warmth and purpose, this kitchen is the perfect blend of serene aesthetics and smart design.
My client came in with inspiration surrounding White Oak cabinetry, which I just loved. I was able to work with her and her daughter to find a door style that fit both our style and budget. We achieved the organic charm from her inspiration photos utilizing Pioneer Cabinetry. We landed on maple cabinets in the Sweet Honey stain — a finish that echoes the tones of Baltic Birch and brings a soft, Scandinavian peacefulness to the space. The gentle grain and golden hue bathe the room in warmth and light, creating an airy and calming atmosphere.
Finding balance among materials, finishes, and textures is one of the most essential parts of creating a kitchen that feels cohesive, intentional, and inviting. Balance design is something you feel, because of the harmony it creates. It ensures that no single element overwhelms the space—and that every detail works together to tell a consistent story.
We utilized three different finishes on the cabinetry in this kitchen for the lowers, uppers, and island, achieving a great balance. The lower cabinets feature the Sweet Honey stain, while the island and uppers feature painted finishes in Alabaster and Sherwin Williams North Star. North Star is a delightful shade of blue which happens to be on display in our award-winning Grand Rapids Design Center! The tile we used picks up the calm blue island, while the countertops are both quiet and airy – drawing in both the white and brown tones.
Incorporating both beauty and function is a key to all my designs, and this project was no different. Inside corners can often be tricky to design, but my client’s space allowed for a generous pantry adjacent to the kitchen. This allowed for a fresh approach: Instead of crowding the space with upper cabinets, our design features open floating shelves in matching Sweet Honey maple. These shelves not only provide practical storage, but also introduce texture and visual interest, helping to “open up” the corner and keep the kitchen feeling bright.
This kitchen isn’t just a showpiece — it’s a place for connection, conversation, and everyday moments. From the thoughtful color palette to the functional layout, every detail was chosen with care. And for my client, it's more than just a kitchen. It’s the heart of a new home, nestled close to family, and filled with warmth, light, and love.