Two Design Experts Make a Grand Traditional Kitchen Work Harder for its Homeowners

Rustic elements, such as wood ceiling beams, add visual interest while also grounding a grandiose kitchen.

A dedicated wash station for prepping produce keeps the main counters clean when cooking or hosting.

Two-tone cabinetry featuring a natural wood finish elevates an all-white kitchen while remaining a neutral backdrop for colorful window treatments and accessories.

The goal was to create a kitchen that exudes warmth, embodying their family-oriented lifestyle while maintaining practicality for everyday use.

To create a functional, family-friendly kitchen for their family of six, an Atlanta couple enlisted the help of two design experts who—having worked with them before on previous homes—they knew they could trust: interior designer Suzanne Kasler and luxury cabinet designer Christopher Peacock.

“For this family, the kitchen is truly the heart of the home,” says Kasler. Because the kitchen serves as a central place for family meals and gatherings, “the goal was to create a kitchen that exudes warmth, embodying their family-oriented lifestyle while maintaining practicality for everyday use.”

Considering the client’s love of cooking and growing their own vegetables in the backyard, the design team created a functional, U-shaped kitchen layout and incorporated a dedicated wash area for prepping produce. “This is the third project that we have completed for this client, and their busy lifestyle demands organization down to the last spoon,” says Peacock. “We designed specific storage for paper towels, the dog beds, pots and pans, and silverware, and it really works well for the family.”

Inspired by the vaulted ceilings and beams overhead, Peacock grounded the kitchen with natural wood cabinetry. “Christopher brought his extensive expertise in kitchen functionality and design, ensuring that every detail met our client’s needs,” says Kasler. “His insight helped create a space that was both beautiful and practical.”

To balance these rustic details, Kasler aimed for a more continental, chic aesthetic, dressing up the space with items such as a custom stainless steel-and-brass François & Co. hood, a practical and striking pot rack, and custom Fortuny shades. At the island, bench seating lends itself to family time. “We love the combination of dressed-up details with the casual wood ceiling,” says Kasler. “It creates a truly unique and beautiful atmosphere.”