Black and white kitchens remain a striking and timeless choice for the home. Manhattan-based jewelry designer Stephanie Gottlieb recently collaborated with Tara Kantor Interiors to update her kitchen with a sophisticated yet classic design featuring Fisher & Paykel’s minimalist style and integrated appliances. retrofit home‘s editors recently connected with Kantor to get the inside scoop on working with Gottlieb to design her dream kitchen and discuss why Fisher & Paykel appliances were the right choice for the project.
rh: What was the concept/inspiration behind the kitchen design?
A: The clients knew from the start they wanted a black kitchen, and I was thrilled! I love mixing things up. Given the layout of their apartment, it was a great choice. The kitchen is its own separate space and has a ton of natural light coming in from the outdoor area, so I knew the space could handle dark cabinets but still manage to feel open and bright.
rh: What do you love most about integrating Fisher & Paykel appliances into your projects?
A: The modern seamlessness of these appliances works perfectly with my style. I’m all about a minimal look, and Fisher & Paykel’s design makes it easy to keep things sleek without any interruptions in the lines or flow of the space.
rh: How does a project like the Gottlieb residence’s kitchen demonstrate your design philosophy while also staying true to the client’s brand identity?
A: The Gottliebs were definitely drawn to the simplicity in my designs, but they also like to make creative choices, so we added those touches—the bold stone, dark cabinets, a wave detail in the banquette and custom stools I designed just for them but contrasted these details with an otherwise very minimal look.
rh: For those about to embark on a renovation, what are your top three tips for creating a beautiful, functional kitchen?
A: You can never have enough storage. Use every inch!
Hide your storage where you can. Open shelves are nice if you have a lot of space, but they need to be perfectly styled all the time.
Always use marble. Whether it’s a backsplash or a countertop (if you’re brave), marble brings in an earthy, timeless feel that elevates any kitchen.
rh: They say the kitchen is the heart of the home. What is your favorite kitchen family tradition?
A: Thanksgiving is the one holiday I would never give up. I host all the time, but Thanksgiving is my favorite. Everyone starts in our basement bar watching the games, then comes up for dinner, and usually ends up on the family room sofa, either asleep or catching the last football game. We’ve got a big family, and the open concept in my home makes it easy to fit everyone—and their dogs!
PHOTOS: Phillip Reed
