Sunny Disposition

"Sometimes potential is right under our noses, we just have to open our eyes. A young professional family in Watchng, New Jersey has friends over often and loves to entertain, but were frustrated with their tiny, isolated kitchen. Ian Cairl of Platinum Designs took one look at the adjacent, underutilized sun room all alone in the corner and knew exactly what to do: remove the wall between the rooms to merge them and then marry them visually. Two generous islands now provide great workspace, and guests have multiple places to hang out while keeping the cook company. A custom bench and table overlooking the garden seats up to 10 when the leaves are in place: the perfect spot for homework, crafts, play dates, office work, games and puzzles. A Sub-Zero undercounter fridge near the table, hidden by matching cabinetry, keeps snacks and mealtime essentials nearby. To maintain the feeling of extensive space, walls on either side of the range hood were kept open. This highlights the Wolf 36-inch gas rangetop with sconce lighting and marble backsplash. Even the Wolf oven controls that slip away for a clean look add to the kitchen's new identity as a space for living. "They were putting value on time together and getting the most from their home," says Cairl. "It's not about budget or even about the footprint— it's about being creative in using that footprint. Don't think of spaces as separate. You can merge functions like play dates and entertaining for small and large parties. A place you feel happy and comfortable is really, really important. Regret is really expensive!"