Janice and Greg Merlino love to entertain. Their kitchen was the prominent gathering place. Plus, the panoramic views from Seattle’s View Ridge neighborhood were a natural backdrop best seen from the adjacent deck. “We thought expanding the deck would give us more room for overflow,” said Greg Merlino, “But the design plan for the new kitchen folded in the existing deck so well, we ended up not needing to expand the deck.”
The Merlino’s brought on Sandall Norrie Architects and Kathleen Glossa of Swivel Interiors to help them realize more space and utility in their main floor, including redesigning their kitchen and dining layout. The first consideration was to maximize the water and mountain views. The second was how to create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of a boutique hotel – and the de rigueur creature-comforts found therein.
The new plan for the kitchen centered the vista with a large island and the LaCantina accordion wall door set from Windows, Doors & More that allows access to the deck. A roomy dining nook was installed in one corner. Cleverly hidden within the banquet is handy office equipment. Additional conveniences include a hidden, curated cabinet ready to serve breakfast, including coffee, smoothies, and toast. For evening, a corner brass-and-glass bar cart is filled with vintage bar accessories and aged whiskies.
Using a warm color palette with some accents of burnt orange, rich blues, and woodsy greens, Glossa layered textures including leather, fur, and suede for the upscale ambiance. The base wall color, “Calm” by Benjamin Moore, ties it all together. Emulating the bespoke hardware of the most beautiful hotel bars, Glossa accomplishes a handmade effect by mixing two different metals – matte pewter and antique brass. The statement pendant lighting features both metals in harmony with the cabinet color.
“Kathleen helped us navigate how to blend our more modern aesthetic into the rest of the traditional craftsman-style house,” said Merlino. “She and the team, including contractor WS Feldt were wonderful to work with. They found unique ways to reach our goals while staying true to our vision.”
PROJECT SOURCES
CONTRACTOR
W.S. Feldt General Contractor
wsfeldt.com
ARCHITECT
Sandall Norrie Architects
sandallnorrie.com
INTERIOR DESIGN
Swivel Interiors
swivelinteriors.com
DOORS
Windows, Doors & More
windowshowroom.com
SELECT FABRIC
Susan Mills Showroom
susanmills.com
Seattle Design Center
seattledesigncenter.com
SELECT PAINT
Benjamin Moore
benjaminmoore.com
