SUNNY DISPOSITION
WITH A VERDANT BACKDROP AND CHARMING VINTAGE-INSPIRED FLOURISHES, THIS KITCHEN IS AS PRETTY AS A PICTURE
As one of the busiest and most-loved spots in the home, the kitchen deserves a prime location, and this one couldn’t be more idyllic. Bathed in sunshine with direct access to the garden and a sprawling outdoor entertaining area, this space, in a beautiful home in Portland, Oregon, in the US, is exactly what the owners were after – light, warm and friendly.
The stunning space is the brainchild of interior designer Jessica Helgerson, who was tasked with the top-to-bottom remodel of the family’s 1920s home. “Our work involved relocating the kitchen to the sunnier side of the house and creating a character that suited the home’s vintage and the sweet young family of four who use it daily,” says Jessica. Affectionately known as the ‘garden kitchen’, vast windows and doors create a wonderful connection to the leafy surrounds, with planter boxes filled with seasonal vegies and herbs inspiring home-cooked meals. The green backdrop also complements the kitchen’s soothing tone. “Although the finishes like the wall tiles, white cabinetry and quartz benchtops are mostly muted, it works because of the variety of subtle undertones and the warmth of the western walnut island bench and shelving,” she explains.
Doubling as an informal dining zone, the bespoke central table features deep drawers and shelves for easy-access storage, and is a favourite spot to enjoy the view and a bite to eat. Polished brassed accents add another layer of elegance, with the crowning centrepiece a vintage 1970s Florian Schulz ‘Double Posa’ pendant. “Every element of the room was thoughtfully considered and the effect is a truly special space that will be enjoyed for years to come,” says Jessica. “It’s classic, liveable and warm.”
“THE POLISHED BRASS ACCENTS CREATE FOCAL POINTS OF INTEREST AND BRIGHTNESS LAYERED ON TOP OF THE RESTRAINED PALETTE”
~ JESSICA HELGERSON, INTERIOR DESIGNER