Divider and three-level cabinet - kitchen cabinet

Sunset, April, 1989

Find a sculptural way to separate a small kitchen from the adjacent hall and dining area without blocking light: that was the challenge San Francisco architect Toby Levy met in this remodel.

She designed a three-level cabinet that rises from 3 to 4-1/2 to 7 feet. Black plastic laminate covers the tiered surfaces as well as the open shelves on the kitchen side.

On the hallway side, corrugated aluminum creates an eye-catching contrast in materials. Its strong vertical lines accentuate the divider's geometry, and its clear polyurethane finish also reflects light, brightening the hall and dining room. Panels like these are sold in 4- by 8-foot sheets at farm supply stores.