Kitchens Confidential

 This past March the Symphony Orchestra Augusta Guild presented Symphony of Kitchens, the second annual kitchen tour fundraising event for the symphony. This year’s tour featured kitchens on both sides of the river as well as in both Columbia and Richmond counties. Seven kitchens as well as the clubhouse at River Island were included. Next year’s tour is set for Saturday, March 10, with a kickoff party on the evening of March 9. For tickets and more information visit www.soa.org.

An inside look at some of the stunning kitchens presented on the Symphony Orchestra Augusta Guild’s 2011 kitchen tour

The kitchen in this Forest Hills home is the center of activity. It is the result of a remodeling project that focused on transitioning a federal-style floor plan into an open living space with a fresh new look. Appliances are hidden behind cabinet panels along the walls and in the island, lending the space a minimalist feel. Copper drum pendants above the island and fluted wood cabinetry with limestone flooring provide a decidedly contemporary yet inviting tone. (See photo above)

 

 

With its sparkling traditional look, this kitchen in Hammond’s Ferry focuses on efficiency and function. Appliance garages prevent counter clutter, keeping items handy but out of sight. Equipped with four ovens—a steam oven, a speed oven and a double conventional/convection oven—it’s a cook’s dream come true. Two granite composite sinks, one for prep and one for cleanup, are added conveniences. Pocket doors leading into the family room allow for the option of closing off the kitchen. Colorful artwork and simple  yet striking decorative accents punctuate the otherwise pristine space.

 

 

Whimsy is the touchstone of this backyard kitchen and guest cottage on the Hill. Equipped with a Viking grill, beautiful cabinetry and granite-top island suitable for casual dining, the outdoor kitchen is the envy of many of its indoor counterparts. A few steps beyond the pool, the guest cottage delights visitors with a baby grand piano, a sleeping and sitting area as well as a sink and additional appliances, making indoor/outdoor entertaining a breeze and guest accommodations first-class.

 

 

This Forest Hills kitchen was designed to be the center of family life with both comfort and function in mind. An eight-and-a-half foot marble top island anchors the kitchen and serves as an elegant gathering place when entertaining guests and family. Top of the line appliances and ample counter space lend beauty as well as functionality. Subdued earth tones in the cabinetry, countertops and wall color enhance continuity throughout the living areas.

 

 

The star of the show in these beautifully designed River Island kitchens is their sweeping river vistas. The kitchen above adds a new dimension to the classic work triangle with the room itself being triangular. A white farm sink and cabinetry stand out against the mahogany wood of the island, where family members can gather for a casual meal. • Reclaimed heart pine floors, exposed beams and earth-tone countertops in the kitchen below complement rather than compete with the breathtaking views. An open floor plan includes the living area, breakfast area and kitchen, which blends unobtrusively into the space.