When clients come to us through trusted builder partners, we get the opportunity to collaborate early in the construction process and shape every detail of their home. For this project, the home buyer approached me with a clear vision: a warm, rustic aesthetic, a highly functional kitchen layout, and spaces throughout the home that flow seamlessly and support their love of entertaining. I was excited to tie all of these elements together in a timeless, functional design!
One of the first things the homeowners told me was how much they love hosting. We began our design journey with the heart of the home: a large, inviting kitchen anchored by a generous island. With seating for four and plenty of room for food prep and casual meals, this island truly serves as the gathering point. Whether making morning coffee or setting out appetizers, the space encourages connection.
The homeowners had already selected a stunning Fantasy Brown granite for their countertops, which set the stage for the color palette. From there, we built the cabinetry design around rustic, neutral tones – keeping everything cohesive and calm while still adding visual interest.
The cabinetry is where the home’s rustic personality really comes through. We used rustic alder cabinetry in a darker stain. The natural knots add warmth and authenticity, while the clean Shaker lines keep the look fresh and timeless.
To balance those rich tones, we incorporated soft white paint for the hood and island. Mixing finishes like this is a thoughtful way to modernize rustic style without losing its charm. The hood becomes a focal point above the 48" range top, brightening the space and adding just the right amount of contrast.
A great entertaining kitchen needs great storage – and lots of it. Because this kitchen is so spacious, we were able to integrate functional solutions throughout:
The homeowners didn’t want a traditional dining table since the island offered ample seating, so we designed the space to support both everyday meals and large gatherings without sacrificing flow.
One of my favorite features in this project is the walk-through pantry. Tucked behind cabinet doors, it becomes a hidden prep space – perfect for entertaining. Anything you don’t want on display during a gathering can be kept here: extra beverages, dishware, food prep, and more with ample cabinetry and a second refrigerator.
It’s the kind of space that guests might never notice, but homeowners use every day!
With a kitchen this spacious, we had the flexibility to include oversized appliances that match the scale of the room and support frequent entertaining. A 48" range top, a large built-in refrigerator and freezer, and a secondary fridge in the pantry ensure there’s always room for ingredients, drinks, and prepared dishes.
Everything feels proportionate and visually grounded – just as it should in a grand kitchen designed for hosting.
In designing cabinetry for the entire home, I tied rustic elements throughout while adapting each space to its function.
By keeping tones, styles, and details consistent, the home feels harmonious from room to room – something especially important in new construction.
Working with Stone Hollow Custom Homes is always a pleasure. Their team prioritizes craftsmanship, communication, and client experience, which makes the design process smooth and collaborative. They trust us to bring cabinetry and storage solutions to life, and in turn, we’re able to help their clients achieve both beauty and functionality in every space.
Whether you're beginning a new construction journey or planning a remodel, thoughtful design can transform the way you live – and the way you entertain. If you're ready to start designing a home that reflects your style and supports your lifestyle, our team is here to help.
Request a free consultation with KSI today to begin your journey!