Kitchen

Focal-point shelving. This kitchen features a variation on the end-of-island storage idea, with built-in shelves on either side of the tall chairs. Because this kitchen opens to a seating area, the shelves and the items displayed on them — here, pottery and a cake stand — offer a place for the eyes to rest rather than just the chair backs. Island and wall cabinetry: color-matched to Van Deusen Blue HC-156, Benjamin Moore; perimeter cabinetry: color-matched to Chantilly Lace OC-65, Benjamin Moore; island countertop: white quartz; pendants: RejuvenationHow to Make the Most of Your Kitchen’s Back Side

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One downside of this solution that should be noted is the loss of some counter space, compared to using standard upper and lower cabinets with a stretch of counter between. However, using a tall full-depth cabinet provides a great deal more storage capacity and gives the kitchen a weighty and mature air. Plus, it gives you more surface area to paint in a rich hue if you so choose.If you have a nearby island to act as prep space, losing a little counter may be well worth the trade-off.

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At One End of a Galley KitchenWhether you have a wide kitchen with a bit of space to spare or a compact kitchen with nowhere else for the pantry to go, using a tall cabinet at one end of the kitchen can be a beautiful solution. This sort of layout creates an appealing symmetry with a tall cabinet at the other end for a fridge or other appliances.

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