A Studio Kitchen in Seattle Gets a Revamp Without Changing the Layout

Designer Reena Ravi made it happen for a demanding client—herself.

After a flood caused water damage to her Seattle workplace studio, interior designer Reena Ravi saw an opportunity to infuse the open-concept space with some "sultry urban glam." To achieve that vibe, she says, "I started with brass and ran with it."

A circa 2006 condo, the studio was a dark, gloomy space in desperate need of personality. Although Ravi had free rein when it came to style, she faced other limitations: Complex HOA regulations kept her from moving any of the existing plumbing. That setback meant the appliance layout had to remain. While Ravi couldn't shift the setup, she did move it straight up, installing sky-high cabinets to take advantage of every inch afforded by the 13-foot ceilings. A rolling library ladder that offers access to the highest shelf is stowed around the corner when not needed.

Back on ground level, a custom island on casters that Ravi commissioned has the look of a dresser but with cleverly designed drawers to fit everyday essentials. "Since the kitchen, dining, and living area are all one space, the rolling island can be pushed aside when more space is needed," she explains. But it also "adds a touch of delicate elegance to the kitchen."

She amped up the glam with deep blue cabinets and a custom range hood that matches their brass inlays. "Before the transformation, the kitchen was very simple, nothing really caught the eye, and there was not enough space," Ravi says. "Now, it's colorful, dramatic—and more functional."

A side rail keeps the ladder out of the way when the kitchen gets busy.

"It's a small but interesting space, with lots of details to discover," Ravi says. Cabinets: Canyon Creek in Hague Blue by Farrow & Ball. Cabinet hardware and grilles: Armac Martin. Framed wallpaper: Gracie. Range: Café. Hood: Vent-A-Hood. Faucet: Perrin & Rowe. Custom island: John Belli. Ladder: Putnam Rolling Ladder.

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