Showhouse Kitchen Showcases Glitz and Glamour

WASHINGTON, DC— For some kitchen and bath designers, catering to the sensibilities of fashion-conscious clients may require a fact-finding mission to Milan.

But right now, that sense of glitz and glamour can be found at “Metallic, Sparkle and Shine,” a demonstration kitchen environment designed by Barbara Hawthorn of Barbara Hawthorn Interiors, Ltd., in McLean, VA.

Hawthorn’s demonstration kitchen, located in here as part of the Washington Design Center Fall 2007 Design House, features all of the haute couture found on the runway.

“The ‘Metallic, Sparkle and Shine’ design theme is based on fashion trends,” explains Denise Maksimowitz, ASID, senior designer and project manager for Barbara Hawthorn Interiors, Ltd. “Barbara selected the concept recognizing that current fashion is infused with elements such as metallic, beading and sequins to create sparkle and shine.”

The kitchen is designed for entertaining, with the arrangement of appliances convenient for a cook, while the parallel, oversized dining table is designed to allow the cook and guests to interact.

“The kitchen appliances, kitchen desk, lounge seating and garden room are all within easy reach and flow to each other,” reports Maksimowitz. “This way, the chef can keep an eye on what’s cooking from any of these vantage points.”

Hawthorn chose a variety of high-end products to capture the glamorous design theme, including kitchen cabinetry by Snaidero; a stainless steel countertop, sink and backsplash supplied by Studio Snaidero DC; Miele cooktop and dishwasher with custom Snaidero panel front; Lady Lux sink faucet from Grohe; 30" free-standing refrigerator with icemaker from Liebherr; 18"x18" porcelain tile with metallic paint finish from Architectural Ceramics; custom lighting fixtures from Barbara Hawthorn Interiors and furnishings from Fendi Casa.

“Overall, this space was designed to speak about luxury and high-quality furnishings and fixtures, while at the same time, be inviting, comfortable and cozy,” offers Maksimowitz.

Sparkle and Shine

This kitchen takes its lighting cues from the runway as well, as even professional models benefit from the assistance of tasteful lighting.

“Since this installation is in a showhouse, there is no natural light in the space,” Maksimowitz explains. “Therefore, we created a wonderful sense of natural light by using carefully selected fixtures and reflective materials, including iridescent paint finish on the cabinetry; high-gloss wall paint; metallic floors, countertops and chair rail; metallic cushions, and accent lighting.”

Specifically, Hawthorn selected a Murano-glass Fendi chandelier and Fendi glass floor and table lamps to light the room. In addition, lucite accessories, such as a tall slender obelisk and pedestal, reflect light and cast prisms.

“Recessed lights were installed in the ceiling,” Maksimowitz notes, “to wash the upper cabinets, highlight the original artwork, and provide additional ambient lighting.”

A custom lighting installation in the garden area features bulbs of various shapes strung on hanging cords that flank a custom, full-length mirror.

Organic undulating shapes found in the curved cabinet doors were also echoed in the place settings, the chandelier and various accessories for added texture and sheen, Maksimowitz adds.

“Stainless steel subway tiles were installed to serve as a chair rail, also providing a sparkling, reflective finish,” she reports.

A free-standing fireplace, open on both sides, provides another glowing and dramatic element.

“A very unique aspect of the design is that you can see the reflection of the stainless steel-lined firebox as well as the flames in the floor,” she adds.

Project Runway

The kitchen cabinetry played a major role in reinforcing the design concept, according to Maksimowitz.