The kitchen zone
To call Kathleen Navarra’s design just a kitchen doesn’t do her work justice. Previously empty — with basically some rather traditional cabinetry and an island — it is now the ultimate multihyphenate space. Yes, there’s a designated section for prepping and cooking food, complete with a marbletopped cerused oak island. But there’s also a desk/work zone with built-in shelving; an area for lounging, reading or TV-watching; and a tall table with bar stools that puts you in the middle of the action. Next to the windows that overlook the Presidio, there’s a breakfast nook. Anchored by an elongated octagon-shaped table that Navarra designed, it’s the perfect spot for eating, tackling homework or enjoying the view. And there’s more: A 4-by-5-foot dog zone tucked beneath the staircase — once wasted space — features a landscape mural by decorative painters Linda Horning and Katherine Jacobus. “The aesthetic (of the room) is based in tradition, but with contemporary lines and interesting materials,” says Navarra. Among her favorite elements are the verre églomisé backsplash by Villafranca Studio and the La Cornue range in chocolate brown. The end result exemplifies the theory that design is in the details: The cabinetry’s walnut interiors beautifully contrast the painted white doors and drawers, which are embellished with custom hammered metal knobs and pulls. Some of the cabinets store a special surprise: Karen Shapiro’s ceramics, based on American pop icons (for example, oversized Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and Planters peanut butter).