Kitchen Encounters

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: Our focus is on Mark White, owner of Kitchen Encounters in Annapolis, Maryland. This kitchen design also took first place for the large kitchen category in the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s annual design competition.

 

 

 

 

 

HF: How would you describe your design style?
MW: I’d describe it as eclectic and ‘reflective’- I like a variety of styles; contemporary, transitional, and some traditional. It all depends on the space you are in and the surroundings of the home. My designs are a reflection of my clients’ tastes and desires, and often the result of collaboration with interior designers.

HF: Where do you get your design inspiration?
MW: When I listen to my clients, I am usually inspired to come up with solutions to their project challenges; some inspiration comes from architecture, other from designers or nature. Every client and situation is unique in its own way. A big part of the interactive design process is to learn about our clients outside of what their immediate needs are, and try to incorporate a feature particular to them; showcasing their grandmothers tea pot collection, creating a space for their beloved pets, leaving space for their antique hutch, anything that is special to the homeowner.

HF: What were the main requests from your client for this project?
MW: The client’s already had a large, open kitchen, but the style was traditional. The biggest change they wanted was to make the space more modern, while keeping it open for family and entertaining; lots of appliances, counter space and storage – good flow and access to everything.

HF: Were there any big design challenges you had to overcome?
MW: Some challenges included moving the pantry door to be more accessible to the main work area and creating a functional food prep area in such a large kitchen without requiring too much walking.

HF: What are your favorite things about this space?
MW: My favorite things include the accent lighting built in around all the cabinets; the pantry door that matches the cabinets; the elevated fireplace and wine/bare area.

HF: How did Hubbardton Forge lighting and that design get picked for this project?
MW: We had a very talented interior designer, Sharon Kleinman of Transitions, working with the homeowners on tile, countertop, hardware and lighting selections.

Mark’s Project Features:  CIRQUE CHANDELIERS  &  BRINDILLE PENDANT