2014 National Kitchen and Bath Association Design AwardsBy Chris Tutolo - December 2, 2014Facebook Pinterest Email Twitter Linkedin WhatsApp Photo by SpacecraftingSecond Place Jaque Bethke, PURE Design EnvironmentsSecond Place: Jaque Bethke, PURE Design EnvironmentsThe homeowners proposed opposite visions for the powder-room addition to their home: One wanted modern simplicity, while the other favored a more global feel to match her well-traveled lifestyle. The new space pleases both. Offering high visibility at the end of a hallway, the design features a dedicated water closet and focal wall opposite the entrance. An unorthodox meshing of contemporary metallic wall textures and historic brass-finished fixtures leaves the lasting impression the couple desired. | photo by John MagnoskiSecond Place: David Heide and Brad Belka, David Heide Design Studio | photo by Susan GilmoreSecond Place: David Heide and Brad Belka, David Heide Design Studio | photos by Greg PageBeforeFirst Place: Mary L. Maney, CKD, ASID, Crystal Kitchen CenterEverything about this master bathroom was small—and the footprint, window placement, and sloped ceiling and wall could not be modified. Yet every element of the new design creates the illusion of spaciousness: the compact floating vanity, the large-format porcelain tile that extends across the floor and runs up one entire wall, the frameless shower door, and the calming soft blue of the walls and lighter shade for the ceiling. All conspire to keep the bathroom visually expansive despite its dimensions. | photo by JH PetersonSecond Place: Mary L. Maney, CKD, ASID, Crystal Kitchen Center | photo by jh petersonBeforeBeforeBeforeSecond Place: Jen Seeger, Casa Verde DesignThe owners of this 1970s home wanted a soothing, sophisticated bathroom that would enable them to age in place. Universal-design features include wheelchair-friendly, 60-inch clearance; an accessible toilet and tub with grab bars; zero-clearance shower with grab bars, shower bench, and hand-held shower; hands-free, customizable Toto washlet with night-light, temperature, and bidet functionality; 36-inch-high vanities; and radiant heating under the nonslip plank flooring. | photo by Andrea RuggFirst Place: Rosemary Merrill, AKBD, Casa Verde DesignThe 1990s remodel of the kitchen in this traditional home was no longer functioning well for the owners—cabinets and appliances had fallen into disrepair and an under-utilized desk area divided the space in two. The family wanted room for entertaining (without adding to the kitchen’s footprint), a classic color palette, modern appliances, and increased storage. A Statuary marble island creates a central hub for gathering, while fresh white custom cabinetry with integrated appliances makes the most of the room’s contemporary-meets-traditional aesthetic. | photo by Andrea RuggFirst Place: Kate Roos, Casa Verde DesignWith a river view to be maximized and a growing household to be accommodated, this family wanted a practical-yet-welcoming design for the generous kitchen in their 2004 home. The new space, relocated to the former hearth room, offers extraordinary views and unlimited natural light. It features two pale-gray islands, tuck-away pantry doors, and easy-access pullouts that keep small appliances hidden away. The islands, white perimeter cabinetry, marble and Ceasarstone countertops, artfully trimmed glass display cases, and polished-nickel sconces create the bright, open space. The design allows for a simple, uninterrupted façade when the kitchen is not being used and convenient access when in use. |photo by Andrea RuggBeforeBeforeFirst Place: Jen Seeger, Casa Verde DesignThis dated master bath and closet combination was begging for a transformation. The new design borrowed space from the large master bedroom and added a wall to create a separate bathroom and walk-in closet. The luxurious, spa-like space now includes double vanities, a dressing table, a large tub, and a walk–in shower. Gray porcelain plank flooring, quartzite countertops, and a band of soft green deco tile around the tub create an ambiance inspired by nature—now on display through the new window. | photo by Andrea RuggFirst Place: Rosemary Merrill, AKBD, Casa Verde DesignThis wood-lined bar started out as a neglected lower-level study in a 1990s home. At the husband’s request, the design included a wood-rolled bar counter and brass foot rail for English pub authenticity as well as locally sourced artisanal cabinetry with sufficient storage for wine, spirits, and glassware for entertaining many guests. The revamped basement also incorporates such signature pub fixtures as a pool table, television, Cambria countertops, and bar-side pizza oven. | photo by Andrea RuggFirst Place: Tamara Johnson, CKD, Arrow Cabinet GalleryThis 10-by-14-foot kitchen situated at the core of a 1947 home was tired, dark, and unworkable. The layout inhibited rather than facilitated meal prep and cooking, and the outdated appliances and badly worn cabinetry and countertops needed to be replaced. The owners wanted an open floor plan that integrated the existing family room without adding to the 1,836-square-foot home. The new design eliminates the wall between the family room and kitchen, substituting a half wall and a peninsula snack bar with extra seating. Recessed and under-cabinet lighting as well as decorative pendant lights add illumination; new cabinetry maximizes storage; and granite countertops and finishes in a light palette brighten the space. | photo by SpacecraftingBeforeSecond Place: Sara Carstens, AKBD, Adler Allyn Interior Design and Kristen Veenstra, AKBD, The Woodshop of Avon | photos by Karen MelvinBy Chris Tutolo