Rachel Reid likes things clean. The Lexington-based designer, who relocated from a mid-century modern gem to a newer, more traditional house in 2010, recently finished remodeling her kitchen. Rather than take down the walls to expand the space, Reid opted to retain the original footprint and the efficiency of its galley-style setup. A long sweep of cabinetry houses a Miele double oven, integrated fridge, and ample storage. Reid, who loves to cook, can stand behind the 11½-foot island knowing everything is in reach. And it works well for two; Reid and her husband often cook together. She says, "We have this great choreography." But what she loves most about her new kitchen is that everything is hidden. "I don't need to look at the clutter. It's all buttoned up."
Advertisement
1) The white laminate Fritz Hansen Span table influenced Reid's choice of white Caesarstone for the island countertop.
2) Sepia-tone photographs above the B&B Italia Luis sofa ("greatest sectional ever," Reid says) are by RISD graduate Bethany Obrecht, a friend of Reid's oldest daughter.
3) Reid chose Varenna by Poliform cabinetry in elm from Showroom in Boston for its crisp, clean lines and warm tone. She says, "It matches my spare aesthetic but doesn't feel cold."
4) Reid uses Tech Lighting stainless spotlights in clients' homes so often that they've become her signature, but she almost skipped them in her own due to cost. Lighting designer Susan Arnold of Wolfers persuaded her to go for it. Reid says, "They illuminate the cabinet interiors as though lit from within."
5) The stainless steel countertop was a great decision. "Anything from the oven goes right on it," she says. Hidden outlets accommodate the mixer for baking.
6) The Dornbracht Elio faucet, which Reid calls "a power piece," was also a splurge. "In such a long, spare space, the form had to be perfect."
Advertisement
7) A long island was a must for Reid, who says, "I want to see everyone lined up at breakfast while I cook."
8) Although Reid initially considered matching the Varenna by Poliform counter stools to the elm cabinetry, she ultimately chose to match them to the laminate-wrapped island in charcoal so they would disappear when pushed in.
9) The coffee garage's aluminum roll-up door hides morning clutter. A drawer below stores tea.
10) The niche is electrified for the teakettle and coffee maker; cleanup is easy thanks to the stainless steel countertop.