Bridging the Gap a Kitchen’s Seamless Blend of Old and New
In the heart of this Upper East Side Manhattan home lies a kitchen that seamlessly blends luxury with functionality. Designed by Annie Leslau, this space is a masterclass in sophisticated design, offering the perfect balance for both daily family life and elegant entertaining.
The Centerpiece Custom Walnut Island
The kitchen’s centerpiece is a custom walnut island that anchors the room, topped with stunning quartzite countertops. The island, designed with both form and function in mind, offers ample workspace while also providing a casual spot for the family to gather. Above the island, a striking Apparatus light fixture adds a touch of modern elegance, its sculptural form complementing the clean lines of the cabinetry below.
Seamless Storage and Sleek Cabinetry
Speaking of cabinetry, the kitchen features custom walnut cabinets that extend from floor to ceiling, providing abundant storage while maintaining a seamless and uncluttered look. The metalwork on the cabinetry, also custom-designed by Annie Leslau’s team, introduces a subtle industrial edge, adding depth and texture to the space. The warm tones of the walnut are echoed in the kitchen’s walnut flooring, which extends throughout the home, tying the design together with a cohesive and natural flow.
A Dining Table Masterpiece
One of the kitchen’s standout features is the expansive dining table, a masterpiece of design and engineering. Crafted from solid walnut, the table stands at an impressive 12 feet long and can extend to 14 or even 16 feet with the push of a button, making it perfect for both intimate family meals and larger gatherings. This table is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a testament to the meticulous attention to detail that defines this home’s design.
Illuminating the Space with Lighting
Above the dining table, a Giopato & Coombes chandelier adds a touch of whimsy and elegance, its delicate design providing a beautiful contrast to the solid wood below. The Suite NY dining chairs, upholstered in custom leather and oak, offer both comfort and style, ensuring that this space is as inviting as it is visually stunning.
The integration of lighting throughout the kitchen is a key element of the design, with ambient, task, and accent lighting all carefully selected to enhance the space’s aesthetic appeal. The lighting not only highlights the architectural details of the kitchen but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Photos: Joshua McHugh (Instagram @joshuamchughphotography)
Interior design: Annie Leslau (Instagram @annieleslau)
