4. Rich and Creamy
Designer: Tonia Coleman of Le Belle Maison Interiors
Location: Frisco, Texas
Size: 546 square feet (51 square meters); 21 by 26 feet
Homeowners’ request. “My clients wanted an oversize kitchen where they could entertain large gatherings, but they wanted the space to feel defined between the kitchen and dining areas in an open concept,” designer Tonia Coleman says. “The homeowner envisioned a warm and inviting kitchen that marries the elegance of French Country style with a modern twist, perfect for hosting large gatherings.”
Warm and welcoming elements. Custom stained quartersawn oak island. Wood range hood detail. European white oak floors. Warm white cabinets. Creamy white zellige backsplash tile. Creamy white quartzite countertops. Brass details. “They wanted a space that feels timeless yet fresh, where traditional elements like the soft neutral tones, natural island with a mix of painted cabinets and the reclaimed-wood-wrapped hood coexist with the sleek, functional design,” Coleman says. “The open and airy spaces allow guests to flow effortlessly, with an oversize 12-foot island as the heart of the kitchen, designed to accommodate a crowd and serve as the perfect spot for entertaining.”
Other special features. Five-foot workstation sink with two faucets and integrated accessories such as cutting boards, colanders, drying racks and serving trays.
Designer tip. “For a unique, rustic touch, we used a reclaimed-wood skin wrap for the kitchen hood instead of a traditional beam cut to size,” Coleman says. “This design trick brought an organic, textured element into the space, echoing the charm of reclaimed-wood beams but with a lighter, more refined silhouette. The wrap adds depth and warmth, blending seamlessly into the modern
Country French style while highlighting the natural beauty of aged wood.”
“Uh-oh” moment. “We had an ‘uh-oh’ moment after the island was installed when the client realized she wanted a bit more room between the kitchen island and the range wall for added comfort and flow,” Coleman says. “Thankfully we were able to adjust and move the island, creating the extra space she envisioned. It was a reminder that even the best-laid plans sometimes need a little tweaking, and we were glad to make it work to ensure the kitchen was just right for her needs.”
Coleman used Houzz “to explore and refine our client’s design style,” she says. “Together we browsed through numerous inspirational pictures, discussing what elements resonated most with her and envisioning how they could come to life in her kitchen. This visual approach allowed us to align specific details, helping her articulate her vision and making the design journey both enjoyable and clear.”
Custom cabinetry plan: KBH Texas, Andrew Risinger, Kitchen, Bath and Home; cabinetmaker: Custom Wood Products; builder: Kirlin Custom Homes; reclaimed wood: Olde Wood; project photos: Stacy Markow Photography; wall and ceiling paint: White Dove, Benjamin Moore
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Removing the corner shower allowed Lundin to create a larger double vanity with wood-look laminate slab door and drawer fronts in a walnut finish. A roomier makeup area splits the vanities, adding symmetry. “It’s a floating vanity and we put LEDs under there that make it look attractive and serve as nightlights,” Lundin says.
The backsplash is composed of 12-by-24-inch porcelain tiles, cut to fit, in black, white and gold with a hand-painted look in a vertical pattern. “There are also some bluish-gray tones that pull from the wallcovering we used in the bathroom,” Lundin says.
Four damp-rated 25-inch black LED linear pendant lights hang in front of a custom mirror. “I’m increasingly using pendants in bathrooms to get better lighting on people’s faces,” Lundin says. Luxury vinyl plank wood-look flooring adds warmth and durability.
Pendant lights: Flare, WAC Lighting; tile: Setana, TileBar
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