Kitchen of the Week: White and Marble

Client and his requirements

The client for this project is a perfect example (though I could say that about every client): an adult, very wealthy, confident in what he wants, and fully trusting man in his early 40s. A modern, forward-thinking individual seeking a home that matches his vision.

ColorThe apartment's unique features suggested the palette—large panoramic windows with a view of water. This major advantage was not to be overshadowed by loud colors, elaborate finishes, or complex shapes.

Thus, the color scheme was kept simple and calm (white, gray, beige and brown tones), though the textures were anything but simple—luxury materials were used throughout: marble slabs for the flooring, and leather for wall finishes. The kitchen was fully custom-made with facades, countertops, and wall panels crafted from Statuario marble.

Style

Minimalism was chosen as the defining style.

Lighting

In my view, lighting is functional. Chandeliers, floor lamps, and table lamps are decorative. I pay special attention to lighting—there is plenty in this project, varied in type, and fully intelligent, operating via a smart home system.

So, instead of simple on/off switches, smart home scenes have been precisely calibrated and programmed—creating, in my opinion, the ideal synergy of multiple light sources operating at carefully adjusted brightness levels.

Lighting in the design is seamlessly integrated: you see the light, but not the source. This may be recessed ceiling lighting, flush-mounted integrated fixtures, wall-mounted sconces emerging from mirrored walls, or perimeter-lit mirrors.

Furniture

When working with minimalism, every detail is carefully considered and weighed. Thus, selecting furniture took a significant portion of the project timeline.

Textiles

I always choose textiles after everything is in place and it becomes clear what’s missing or needs to be enhanced. Given the stunning view through the windows, I didn’t want to block them. So in the living area, we chose airy white curtains and semi-transparent curtains by Calvin Klein—both instantly won over me and the client. In the kitchen and bedroom, thick Roman blinds were used as a functional solution, since the apartment faces south.

Highlight

I consider myself a designer who doesn’t strive to impress with extravagance, novelty, or being ‘different from everyone else.’ My main goal is style—timeless and enduring. So I hope that in this project, the most remarkable thing is its lasting beauty.