Signature Kitchens & Baths Magazine

"Freeform Style" • Jan/Feb 2008 • p. 86.

This kitchen in West Lake Hills in Austin, Texas, had great views of the city and its hills but needed a design to step it up to its surroundings. The homeowners knew exactly what design criteria was needed, and designers Julia Dworschak and Steve Wauson were up to the challenge.

Pantries across the back wall hold everything at arms' reach. The prep area—adjacent to the storage spaces—includes a peninsula, prep sink, storage for related items, a trash compactor and recycle storage. The cooking space nearby features a four-burner gas range with gridle and grill, combination microwave/convection /conventional oven, warming drawer and additional storage. The front of the design serves as the serving and cleanup area, housing a serving bar, sink with purified water, diswasher and plenty of counter space.

The style of the kitchen also melds with the Arts and Craft style of the home. The mahogany balustrades and front doors complement the mahogany cabinets. The same travertine used on the home's floors were repeated in the backsplashes, and a matching glaze finish from the living area's walls is duplicated on the kitchen's walls and ceiling. And the cook can look out across the living room to the entertainment center with a panoramic view of the Hill Country.