The design solution took into account the points of entry into the den, the rear entry form the garage, the back deck, the bonus room and the dining room. Engineered flush structural beams were installed after the removal of the necessary interior walls. By removing the wall between the kitchen and the den and the wall of the butler's pantry, the kitchen space was increased. Also the wall of the laundry room was clipped to enhance the traffic flow and open up even more. The optimum kitchen design moved the functional work areas of the kitchen (cooking, and food prep) into the space backing up to the dining room, thus allowing a major traffic flow through the home without walking through the functional kitchen. This was created by the open breakfast bar peninsula. The bar created communication between family members or friends with the cook, and allows the cook to have view and communication to the den, and the rear. To create as much counter space as possible, all tall elements of the kitchen were located to one wall (refrigerator, wall ovens, and pantry.) The result allowed for a continuous counter space for food prep sink and dishwasher and cooking center. As an added feature, the cleanup center was moved to the exterior wall where there was a sink, dishwasher, dish storage, and a beverage center. A contemporary focal point was created with the Cooktop and chimney hood. The owner, an artist and potter, had commissioned ceramic tile decos to be a featured decorative element in the backsplash. Colors for the tiles were taken from the granite selected, Crème Bordeaux, in teals, wine, and dark neutrals. Two colors of cabinets were chosen, cherry and oak glazed cabinets. The beverage center and the bookcases in the den were the oak glazed and the kitchen was built in the cherry. The granite chosen enhanced both woods. Stainless steel Thermador appliances completed the overall look. -Photos courtesy of Neffworks Photography