Modern moves - Before and After - Architect Anne Phillips updates kitchen - Brief Article

Sunset, April, 2004 by Peter O. Whiteley

More light and openness, the latest appliances, and a richer color palette give this kitchen in a 1950s Eichler tract house new life while preserving its midcentury-modern character. With a few subtle changes--done without altering the floor plan or developer Joseph Eichler's basic post-and-beam aesthetic--architect Anne Phillips transformed the space into something fresh and lively.

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Owners Janet Cole and Deborah Abraham wanted a greater sense of spaciousness, so Phillips removed a non-load-bearing partition and a little buffet counter positioned between the kitchen and the living area. This change made it possible to create a built-in breakfast table for two. Etched-glass doors for the upper cabinets showcase the softened silhouettes of dishware in a contemporary way.

DESIGN: Anne Phillips Architecture, Berkeley (510/841-7056)

RELATED ARTICLE: Finishing touches

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Architect Anne Phillips kept her design simple, making sure that it complemented the architecture. Here's how she approached the design.

* Increase daylight. A new backsplash-to-ceiling window behind the sink visually expands the space.

* Unify. Glass ties everything together: etched glass for the breakfast counter and the upper cabinet fronts, wire glass for the backsplash.

* Add sparkle. Stainless steel appliances, sink, and hardware catch the light.

* Enhance the wood. Light and dark tones of prestained plywood give the cabinetry an elegant, contemporary look.

* Accentuate the structure. Beams painted dark purple draw the eye.

* Brighten the background. The off-white laminate and ceiling reflect light.

* Add light fixtures. Undercabinet strip lights and track-mounted low-volt fixtures supplement the kitchen's original globe pendant lights, reinforcing the room's outlines.