Modern in the Mountains
🎖️ Award Winning Kitchen 🎖️
Winner of "Most Creative use of Cabinetry" 2025
Project Goals
Nestled in the stunning Kootenays, this architecturally unique home, built just a decade ago, was in need of a thoughtful redesign. The original kitchen featured awkward angles, bulky bulkheads, and a mishmash of materials that detracted from the breathtaking views offered by its expansive windows. The new owners envisioned a sleek and modern mountain farmhouse aesthetic, including refinishing the existing fir hardwood floors.
The primary objective for this renovation was to create a more functional and inviting kitchen that enhances workflow and storage. The existing island, characterized by its DIY concrete countertop and unconventional design, needed replacement with a modern island featuring ample storage and seating. Additionally, the dining area required reconfiguration to provide sufficient space in front of the patio doors, fostering better flow and connectivity to the outdoor environment.
In the lower level, the primary bedroom and en suite bathroom also required significant updates. The bathroom was plagued by a lack of natural light from a small window and an awkward layout that included a separate room for the toilet, which compromised the overall functionality. Our goal was to transform this space into a bright and cohesive sanctuary that maximizes light and views, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation and rejuvenation.
"Embrace the beauty of transformation, where every thoughtful design choice illuminates the space and invites nature inside. In crafting a home that harmonizes with its surroundings, we create not just a living area, but a sanctuary that nurtures both style and serenity."
Project Boundaries
To create a more open and inviting kitchen, we began by removing the cumbersome angled bulkhead that jutted out awkwardly from the wall. This pivotal change not only eliminated visual clutter but also allowed the abundant natural light from the surrounding windows to flood the kitchen, accentuating the beauty of the tongue-and-groove ceiling with its exposed beams.
Navigating the room's linear configuration posed a unique challenge as we sought to seamlessly integrate the kitchen’s work areas with dining seating, all while preserving the breathtaking views beyond. To achieve this, we designed an L-shaped island that features a spacious work area with stunning granite countertops along the long side. At the end of the L, two bar stools create an inviting spot for casual dining. The back of this island serves as the banquette seating for the dining table, which is complemented by additional chairs.
This thoughtful arrangement not only enhances functionality but also keeps the sliding glass doors to the patio unobstructed. As a result, everyone sitting or standing in the space can enjoy the captivating lake and mountain vistas, making it a perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and practical design.
Centura
Ceppo Di Gre
Beige
TILE
Olympus
Leathered Granite
COUNTERTOPS
Berenson-
Metro Pull in
Brushed Nickel
HARDWARE
Ceramic Subway
EC Cottage Lt Grey Glossy
TILE
Sollera-Whistler
Maple w Slate stain
CABINETS
Project Outcomes
The transformation resulted in a mountain modern aesthetic that beautifully showcases the breathtaking Kootenay views. We carefully selected materials that harmonize with the existing fir floors, creating a cohesive palette that emphasizes earthy taupe, black metals, and natural stone leathered countertops. These choices enhance the soaring ceilings and expansive windows, contributing to an open, light-filled atmosphere with a touch of rustic charm.
Kitchen: The design celebrates its surroundings, creating an inviting space that feels both contemporary and grounded. The custom high-performance upholstered banquette seating offers both comfort and functionality, with handy under-seat drawer storage to maximize space. The cabinets are a combination of dark grey stained Maple with a taupe painted complimentary uppers and tall cabinets. Open display shelving adds a personal touch, while a designated desk/computer area ensures practicality within the kitchen environment. Together, these elements create a seamless blend of style and utility, embodying the modern mountain aesthetic the homeowners envisioned.
Ensuite Bathroom: The bathroom underwent a striking transformation, evolving into a serene and spa-like retreat. A spacious custom tile and glass shower features large-format pebble flooring that extends seamlessly into the shower walls, creating a cohesive and calming environment. The addition of blue accent tiles introduces a refreshing pop of color, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
A freestanding soaker tub invites relaxation, offering tranquil forest and mountain views through a newly enlarged fir window. This thoughtful redesign not only improves the layout but also floods the space with natural light, fostering a bright and inviting atmosphere. The custom wood shaker-style vanity complements the overall design, contributing to the feeling of luxury and comfort, and turning what was once a dreary space into a bright and inviting retreat.
Before and After
2025 Sollera Design Contest Winner
“ This recognition honors Caralee's ability to translate design vision into cabinetry that shapes how the space lives - defining movement creating moments and elevating daily experience. Congratulations!”
- Sollera Fine Cabinetry
