Jacob Termansen
Jacob Termansen
Jacob Termansen
Jacob Termansen
Jacob Termansen
Jacob Termansen
Jacob Termansen

The owners of this modest home wanted a bright, open kitchen to make the most of a small footprint and views to the outdoors. The solution is a culinary space that feels airy and uncluttered, thanks to an unconventional layout of its storage units. Cabinets in the main galley are reduced to just two rows of undermount drawers running the perimeter of the workspace and across the peninsula. Custom designed by the architects at Webber + Studio, the cantilevered drawers hover above the floor, enhancing the feeling of openness and light.

That feeling also comes by way of what is absent at eye level. Eschewing the usual vent hood (which, surprisingly, is not a local code requirement) and blocky upper cabinets, the owners opted for open display shelving with accent lighting to allow cleaner lines and unobstructed views. Large south- and east-facing windows overlooking the backyard flood the space with natural light from morning to late afternoon. A taller bank of cabinets between the picture window and patio slider doors houses the refrigerator/freezer, a matching pantry, broom closet, hidden microwave and glassware cabinet, and double ovens. Each tall cabinet provides deep storage up top for larger items.

Spare by design, this kitchen is less about color than it is about texture. The floors, paneling, and drawers are pecan, a light Texas hardwood with a characteristically dramatic grain variation, brushed with a soy-based Velvit Oil Golden Honey stain and a zero-VOC seal. The countertop surfaces are Carrara statuary marble with delicate, interesting veining.—J.S.

Entrant/Architect/Interior designer/Kitchen designer: Webber + Studio, Austin, Texas; Builder: W + Inc., Austin