As with the other rooms at Patina Farm, the kitchen was designed with our family and friends in mind. The main living space flows easily into the kitchen, separated only by the two-sided stone hearth that warms both spaces. The inspiration for our kitchen was the rustic European farmhouse kitchen. The center island works well for shared cooking as well as for serving meals family style. Stools provide comfortable seating for friends to chat while the meal is being prepared.
The kitchen is also connected to the rest of the house via materials and color palette. The same white oak was used to build the cabinetry and center island as well as the panels that cover the refrigerator. The outdoor limestone became the backsplash for the range as well as the hearth. Natural linen found on the upholstered pieces is also used as panels under the sink and in the pantry.
The unobstructed view through the windows above the sink links the kitchen with the outdoors while providing sweeping light into the space. Below the stone quatrefoil that we purchased in Belgium, is a Lacanche range, the formidable focal point of the kitchen, where copper, aged brass and stainless steel mix beautifully.
We used antique pieces, like a painted French cabinet, in place of new cabinetry wherever possible. Our pretty white dishes are stored in open display, but the toaster oven, microwave and coffee maker are stored behind cabinet doors near the sink, hidden but easily accessible. The pantry is tucked behind the antique cabinet. Keeping appliances off of the counters and storing dry goods out of the way contributes to the uncluttered calm.
During the design process, we were always thinking about ways to connect the interior rooms with the gardens. Having the large steel windows go all the way to the countertop and building storage shelves into the side plaster walls gives an unobstructed view of the gardens from the kitchen.
Although the center island appears to offer just seating and open shelf storage, it affords a wealth of hidden storage. The side of the island facing the stove is equipped with drawers, which are filled with baking utensils and spices. Cabinet doors conceal deep storage for oversized pots and baking trays as well as a trash bin.
Although the modern appliances are hidden from view, we left many of the other cooking necessities in plain sight. Well-patinaed copper and stainless steel pots are hung on an unlacquered brass rod above the range, and a collection of wooden spoons and spatulas are stored in an ironstone pitcher on the counter. Small marble shelves on either side of the range offer handy space for oils, teas, and salt and pepper grinders to be displayed. An attractive collection of white bakeware is stacked according to shape on the open shelves of the island, and cutting boards arranged on the mantel become works of art.
We embrace the beauty of natural materials. Copper, brass and stainless steel mix wonderfully in our kitchen. Our pots and pans hang above the range, making them easily accessible for everyday use. Utensils, stored in a white earthenware pitcher are also close at hand.
I prefer a single-bowl kitchen sink to a double bowl. Our large 30-inch farmhouse sink works well for washing large pots and pans.
Instead of fabricating new cabinetry, we used antique cupboards for storage. With their worn finishes and lovely imperfections, these case pieces add their own history to Patina Farm.
Instead of building new cabinetry, we found an antique French cabinet for storing our dishes and silverware. Although all of our dishes are white, the different shapes and sizes make for an interesting yet restful display.
Our breakfast table is located next to the fireplace in the kitchen, providing a cozy morning spot for just the two of us, which is becoming a common occurrence now that the children are growing up. The location of the breakfast table also works as a pre-meal gathering spot for guests to enjoy bread, cheese and a glass of wine while dinner is being prepared.
A continental-height table paired with two of our slipcovered Kate chairs become a cozy breakfast room by the fireplace. The light from a pair of swing arm lamps is perfect for reading the morning newspaper, while the picture light illuminates the collection of vintage cutting boards, artistically displayed on the antique wood beam mantel.