It’s summer again, and outdoor living beckons. The California climate, like that in the Mediterranean, allows for doors thrown open without fear of humidity or mosquitoes, letting the sunshine pour in and the residents pour out into the gardens and green of their yards. What color would inspire the kitchen remodel in this particular home? Apple Green and Julia Child.
It all began with a request from a client to bring the outside park-like garden setting into the interior of the kitchen/family room area. We installed French doors which opened access to the garden and pool, let in the light, and yet maintained a traditional sensibility to the amazing French Normandy style architecture of the home.
Inspired by the glow outside, we chose greens to envelope the kitchen space. In a painterly combination of colors, the sofa was covered in Sunbrella fabric in a gorgeous mixture of Viridian Green and Pale Cadmium Yellow, with a touch of Titanium White thrown in. Fresh and spring-like, the space is a beautiful place to entertain. The couple requested that every element be able to withstand the wear and tear of a family of five and two dogs.
The French chef Julia Child was also an inspiration. Her original kitchen is recreated and on display in the Smithsonian Institute. We love her and researched her kitchen which was the heart of the household. The layout of the kitchen was to create a command central, so my client, also a gourmet cook, could command her 48” stainless steel range while still overseeing the activities of her family nearby.
Designing an open floor plan kitchen was a primary goal. We provided easy access to copper pots & pans, and utensils that are housed in an open display-cabinet with a painted green back wall. The reclaimed wood farm table is central to family dining, communication, and a gathering place. The dark chocolate brown chairs add a French bistro-style feel to the sophisticated setting, that is fresh, open and airy.
Anne Mansour resides in the Hancock Park area with her two children and runs Designs by Anne, a boutique design studio. She uses her experience as a painter and artist to work with clients in new construction, renovation, design, decoration and landscape design.
As a current client, I can attest to Anne’s lovely esthetic, artistic nature, wonderful design abilities and delightful countenance.
Please make Anne a regular Buzz contributor. She is so talented! Anne does landscape design, plans parties and creates amazing floral arrangements in addition to her fabulous interiors. We are lucky to have her talent in our own backyard!