The wish list was long, and the zoning was tight for this oceanfront vacation home.

The wife loves to cook and entertain. Her prized appliances were large, and she envisioned a walk-in pantry with a coffee and breakfast area close at hand. She also wanted a light, airy kitchen — no upper cabinets, a table-inspired island, and more windows than the original plan allowed.

Helping clients navigate competing priorities is one of the most important parts of my job.

There usually isn't one perfect solution. Every decision asks you to give something up in exchange for something else. My role is to understand what matters most to my clients and help them make those tradeoffs with confidence.

The builder was a tremendous partner throughout the project. Together, we found a way to relocate the laundry, allowing the pantry to expand and connect directly to the kitchen. Redesigning the sitting area created the additional space needed for the kitchen to grow.

The final layout wasn't the result of one dramatic idea. It was the result of many thoughtful decisions made together.

Every project has competing priorities. This one is a reminder that good judgment begins with understanding what matters most to the people who will call it home.

BUILDER:  Jim Bernard Custom Homes

PHOTOGRAPHY:  Erin Little

STYLING:  Janice Dunwoody

FEATURED IN:  Traditional Home’s Beautiful Kitchens and Baths, Summer 2022