Cement Tile Kitchen

Rich green cabinets and a unique, patterned cement tile floor create an inviting place for family and guests.

Inspired by green doors while traveling in Argentina, Ramin Shamshiri, founding partner of Commune Design, tested 33 paint samples before signing off on the cabinet color in this Spanish-style home. The winner was a deep green from Fine Paints of Europe. Normally, the color, custom cabinetry and Peruvian walnut counters would be enough to take my breath away. But the off-white and off-black custom-stamped cement tile pattern and its aged patina are to die for.  Continuing the tile from the kitchen out into the patio dining area is genius, as it visually expands the space — especially when the doors are kept open. This is L.A. after all.

Back in the kitchen, he stainless hood, single shelf and propped artwork are simple against the neat subway tile range wall.  I would have to guess the subways are by Heath Ceramics since the designer/owner Commune designed Heath Ceramic’s L.A. studio and store and the more recent San Francisco Ferry Building location. (His wife, Donna Langley, is co-chairman of Universal Pictures.)  Conical Theo pendants by Paul Ferrante were used as an alternative to recessed can lighting.  Original mid-century Van Keppel-Green stools at the island have been recovered in leather.

I can’t help but wonder about the rest of the layout. The prep sink and warming drawer are in the island.  There’s a handy pot filler to the left of the range.  It appears to be a short hike to wherever the main sink and dishwasher are located in relation to the cooking area. But I’d be willing to invest in a pair of hiking boots.

(Source: Commune)

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