A blue and white mural on the walls and ceiling is the pièce de résistance in this opulent guesthouse.
A blue and white mural on the walls and ceiling is the pièce de résistance in this opulent guesthouse.We all have favorite rooms that stay in our minds, the ones we’re always happy to run across again. I was reminded of a favorite kitchen while reading Jane’s recent post Delft Tile Kitchen Style. Her article’s first picture [below] prodded me to find my file on this amazing Napa Valley guesthouse kitchen. What lucky guests! San Francisco artist Michael Dute based his blue and white mural design for the barrel vault ceiling mural on classic Swedish rococo interiors. The homeowner was so pleased, she asked him to continue his work down the wall, creating a dramatic and airy space.
The blue and white colors are repeated above the Calacatta marble counters and range in the Middle Eastern tiles – most likely Tunisian, according to the designer. Backless upper shelf cabinets allow the tiled wall to be seen as it continues to the ceiling. It’s a simple design element that makes this kitchen even more special. A farmhouse sink was placed under casement windows to provide garden views. Since most meals take place at the main house only a refrigerator drawer is provided.
In the center of the kitchen is a chestnut island based on an old French table. The custom hood incases a Vent-a-Hood liner and was painted by Dute with a landscape scene that includes deer. The kitchen and living room can be separated by closing a pair of glass paned wood pocket doors.
Layered lighting bathes the space in ambience. Illumination inside the cabinets and the ceiling cove lighting creates a glow. If a kitchen can be romantic, this one certainly is.
(Sources: Erin Martin Design, House Beautiful, Leong Architects)
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I missed Jane’s Delft post, so had to go find it and comment. Those tiles are so amazing. The lighting and open backed shelves are great.
I could even love this ceiling, but the walls make it a bit much for me. Still, a masterpiece I can appreciate. One of those rooms that’s not a style I would’ve chosen, but I could sure love it anyway.
Wow – how beautiful! One of those rooms that makes you stop and look around. I wouldn’t be able to eat!
-Trish
Rhome, I’m far removed from ornate when it comes to decorating, but this room I could easily live with. The barrel vault ceiling and mural make me think of a gypsy caravan.
Trish, I thought it would make me want to cook more!
I have to agree with Allison, it’s not my usual taste but wow! I think I could make an exception for that.