Galleries: Trends & Inspirations
Entertaining Function
Atlanta-based chef and restaurateur Kevin Gillespie and his wife Valerie worked with designer Joel Kelly to remodel their original Cooper Carry home – one of only two that remain. The result is open spaces for entertaining and spending time with friends and family. Gillespie and his wife often host gatherings of 100+ people, so they wanted a kitchen that caters to various culinary preparation needs. Cooking appliances in the kitchen include a 60-in. dual-fuel range, 30-in. combination oven and 30-in. warming drawer – all from Wolf.
The homeowners chose reclaimed materials like brick and white oak for various areas in the house. Skylights in almost every room eliminate the need for the lights to be on all the time. According to Gillespie, their HVAC system is constantly evaluating its energy usage to make its goals.
“A floating island at the edge of the workspace allows people to feel like they are inside the kitchen, but they are far enough away for me to not to run into them,” said Gillespie.
Open shelves and lower cabinetry provide the storage in the kitchen, and ample windows brighten up the space. Navy blue cabinets and dark countertops provide a good balance to the harshness of the stainless steel appliances.
A standing-height bar with seating allows anyone cooking in the kitchen to interact with guests without ever having to leave the kitchen.
A substantial bar in the living area features refrigeration for various beverages, as well as a prep sink.
Regarding the size and function of the master bath, Gillespie said he and his wife needed that sense of sanctuary in the morning and when they get home in the evening. The his and her vanities are positioned across from each other so the couple can look in the mirrors and talk to one another while getting ready for work.
A divider in what Gillespie calls “one giant wet room” allows steam to stay in the shower portion of the space in the master bath. The Washlet toilet from TOTO offers heat and spray features, as well as a nightlight. An automatic seat opens up when the user stands in front of it.
The glass-enclosed shower features handmade tile that emulates waves and water so you can’t tell where the space ends. A 100-lb. ShowerHeaven showerhead from Hansgrohe ensures all corners of the shower are wet and warm during use.
The renovated guest bath features the only tub in the home, and the highlight of this space is the Axor wall-mounted showerhead with the LampShower Trim designed by Nendo. Gillespie says it adds a sense of whimsy to the house. The matte black subway tile in the shower/bath and the floor tile channel the home’s exterior, while a skylight eliminates the need to turn the lights on during the day.