I was roped in during the planning phase of a house renovation. The client, a very dear friend, who I have known since we were both in pigtails and school uniforms, told me in no uncertain terms that she wants a bold kitchen. I was taken aback, for her kitchen space was already very limited. The contractor showed me the plans for the new kitchen, and to my horror, it was even smaller. Now, mind you, this particular friend isn’t someone you argue or rationalize with. She knows her mind, and doesn’t get convinced. Telling her that I won’t take this job was most certainly not an option, as you might have guessed by now. Challenge accepted.

After several sleepless nights, and several more brain-breaking planning and marathon discussions, we were able to draw up a plan which she did not reject. It does not mean she accepted it. Cut to the chase, the installation began. She had gone with a stunning black and white theme for the living room. Thankfully, her house does not have an open layout, and the kitchen is just off the living room. Seeing the black flooring being laid was exciting, a unique choice for a house. By now, I was just as excited as she. We visited the nearby big-box store, and after minimum discussion, agreed that shaker cabinets would look classy with the grey and black color scheme she desired. They have clean lines, with no intricate curves. The contractor was issued instructions accordingly.

When the time came, we both watched with bated breath as the cool-grey cabinets were installed. The sharp black faucet gleamed in the sunlight streaming from her huge kitchen window. The all-black appliances arrived on time, and were neatly installed. The jet-black handles on the cabinetry add to the elegant finish of the six feet by eight feet kitchen.

The detailing is black too, with black trim that connects the cabinets to the ceiling, as well as the black rims that frame the shining glass window. The grey slate countertop perfectly coordinates with the rest of the elements. The end result is a sleek and sophisticated kitchen that is ahead of its times.