Designing for Lasting Appeal: A Warm, Neutral New Build Collaboration

When architect Xander Bogaerts and interior designer Caryn Satovsky-Siegel of Alexander V Bogaerts and Associates came to KSI, they were working on a new home designed to sell. Because the future homeowner was unknown, our challenge was to create cabinetry that would feel warm, inviting, and universally appealing – spaces that anyone could walk into and immediately imagine themselves living in.

Our goal was to highlight the home’s architectural beauty while keeping the overall aesthetic soft and approachable. By using neutral tones, rich textures, and furniture-inspired cabinetry, we created a design that feels both sophisticated and livable.

A Kitchen Designed to Impress

The kitchen truly makes a statement in this home. From the moment you step in, it’s clear that this is a space designed for both elegance and everyday function.

We used inset cabinetry with a beaded detail – a look that brings precision craftsmanship and timeless character. The color palette centers on soft whites paired with warm, quartersawn white oak, creating a soothing contrast that complements the light wood flooring and natural light flooding through the room.

Panel-ready appliances play a major role here. For anyone unfamiliar, panel-ready means that the refrigerator, freezer drawers, and dishwasher are fitted with custom cabinetry panels so they blend seamlessly with the rest of the kitchen design. The result is a cohesive, furniture-like appearance that hides the functionality in plain sight.

One of my favorite moments is the refrigerator wall – a beautifully balanced design that looks like built-in furniture. Hidden behind the cabinetry are a full-size refrigerator, freezer drawers, and pantry storage. It’s both practical and elegant, proving that great design doesn’t have to announce itself loudly to make an impact.

Thoughtful Design for Everyday Living

Every detail in this kitchen was carefully considered to enhance usability and beauty. Inside the cabinetry, we included pull-out utensil canisters, spice storage, cutlery dividers, and trash pullouts – small touches that make everyday cooking easier while keeping the space uncluttered.

The custom drywall-style hood above the range keeps the look clean and architectural. Paired with the warm wood tones and subtle stain, it ties the design together beautifully!

A Butler’s Pantry for Entertaining in Style

Just off the kitchen sits a generous butler’s pantry, designed as the perfect pass-through between the kitchen and dining room. This area is ideal for staging food and drinks when entertaining and features open shelving, under-shelf lighting, and a mix of panel-ready refrigeration for wine and beverages.

To tie the design together, we carried the island’s quartersawn white oak cabinetry into this space and added gold mesh door inserts for a refined accent. The warm wood tones bring depth to the large pantry area while keeping the look consistent with the rest of the home.

Beautiful Baths and Functional Spaces

The bathrooms continue the home’s cohesive design language – bright, balanced, and thoughtfully detailed for both beauty and function. In the primary bath, warm white oak vanities ground the bright, window-filled room, creating a serene retreat. Throughout the secondary baths, we maintained a neutral white palette, ensuring cohesion from space to space.

Downstairs, the lower-level bath and bar adopt a darker, moodier finish – a popular trend for basement spaces where a more intimate, lounge-like feel works beautifully. The bar area features open shelving, a tile backsplash, and a rich wood tone that defines the entertaining area.

Even the laundry room received attention to detail, with stackable washer and dryers, a deep sink, and a custom “cleaning cabinet” designed to hold brooms, mops, and tall cleaning supplies—proof that functionality can still be beautiful.

Designed to Feel Like Home

What I love most about this project is that every space feels complete yet flexible. The neutral color palette lets potential buyers imagine their own style – whether that’s adding bold artwork, colorful barstools, or patterned rugs. The design complements the home’s architecture without overpowering it, allowing anyone to envision themselves living here comfortably.

Partnering for Success

This project was a true collaboration between design and architecture. Working alongside Alexander V Bogaerts and Associates and SDGA Builders, we brought together craftsmanship, creativity, and practicality to produce a home that is as beautiful as it is functional.

Ready to Envision a New Space?

Whether you’re an architect, builder, interior designer, or homeowner, KSI’s team of expert designers can help bring your dream space to life. From kitchens and baths to bars and pantries, we specialize in designing cabinetry that blends function, form, and timeless appeal.

Request a design consultation today to begin your project with KSI Kitchen & Bath.