3 Interior Designers Transform The Same Galley Kitchen | Space Savers | Architectural Digest

Summary

In this interior design challenge, three designers are tasked with transforming an empty galley kitchen with no restrictions. Each brings their unique style: Courtney McLeod aims for an elegant and light design with nature-inspired elements, Sasha Bikoff blends retro-futuristic vibes with playful patterns and colors, and Becky Carter embraces fearless, architectural choices, incorporating luxurious materials and functional yet striking designs. With custom appliances, innovative cabinetry, and bold lighting, they each create kitchens that balance form and function, blending modernity with personal flair for a distinct, stylish space.

Takeaways

• 😀 The designers are given an empty galley kitchen and free reign to design it as they please.
• 😀 Courtney McLeod's design style is described as elegant with a playful twist.
• 😀 Sasha Bikoff aims to design a kitchen that combines retro and futuristic styles, with influences from Marie Antoinette and Studio 54.
• 😀 Becky Carter’s design is fearless, architectural, and uses bold, practical choices.
• 😀 All designers are focused on maximizing the use of space in the small galley kitchen.
• 😀 The window is a key element, with different designers proposing unique changes, such as making it a focal point or simplifying the frame.
• 😀 Tile choices vary, with designers opting for different styles like hand-glazed sky blue tiles, retro yellow mosaics, and natural stone.
• 😀 The ceiling is a focal point, with one designer incorporating a stainless steel ceiling for reflection, another using walnut for warmth, and a third adding hand-painted wallpaper for interest.
• 😀 Flooring choices include geometric patterns, travertine stone, and contrasting textures to complement the overall design.
• 😀 Cabinetry designs are varied, with some using stainless steel, others opting for lacquered red or custom cabinetry, all aiming for maximum storage and functionality in a small space.

Q & A

What is Courtney McLeod's design style for the kitchen?

Courtney McLeod's design style is described as elegant with a playful twist. She combines luxurious materials like travertine and stainless steel with touches of brass and reflective surfaces to create a light and airy atmosphere, infused with natural elements.

What inspired Sasha Bikoff's design for the kitchen?

Sasha Bikoff's design was inspired by a blend of retro and futuristic aesthetics, drawing from the opulence of Maria Antoinette and the glamour of Studio 54. She uses yellow mosaic tiles to evoke a retro vibe and incorporates walnut and brass details for warmth.

How does Becky Carter approach kitchen design?

Becky Carter's design style is bold and architectural. She draws inspiration from luxury yachts, vintage trailers, and mid-century modern elements, incorporating geometric patterns and stainless steel finishes, with an emphasis on functionality and custom elements.

What is the main challenge the designers face in this project?

The primary challenge is the small size of the galley kitchen. The designers have to work within the constraints of limited space while ensuring the kitchen remains functional, aesthetically pleasing, and personalized.

How do the designers address the limited space in the kitchen?

Each designer reworks the floor plan to maximize space. For example, Courtney and Becky reposition appliances and countertops to enhance functionality, while Sasha focuses on making the space feel open and light by using reflective surfaces and creative lighting.

What materials does Courtney McLeod use for the kitchen walls and ceiling?

Courtney uses travertine for the walls and stainless steel for the ceiling. The travertine adds a natural, luxurious feel to the space, while the stainless steel ceiling reflects light and creates a clean, modern look.

What unique feature does Sasha Bikoff add to her kitchen design?

Sasha Bikoff adds porthole windows to her upper cabinets, evoking a nautical or vintage trailer feel. She also incorporates a stained-glass window design inspired by artist Tomás Saraceno to add artistic flair.

How does Becky Carter integrate geometric patterns into her kitchen?

Becky Carter creates a geometric floor pattern using a variety of stone types, including marble, granite, and quartzite. This bold design creates a striking visual impact while enhancing the overall architectural aesthetic of the kitchen.

What kind of lighting elements are incorporated into the kitchens?

The designers incorporate a variety of lighting elements, including overhead chandeliers, LED strips for task lighting, and vintage-style fixtures. Courtney uses soft lighting with brass accents, Sasha adds a more modern touch, and Becky uses step lights typically found on boats for a unique effect.

How do the designers personalize the kitchen space?

The designers personalize the kitchens by integrating unique, custom elements like open shelving, distinctive cabinetry, and one-of-a-kind light fixtures. They also choose artwork, fabrics, and furniture that reflect their personal tastes, creating spaces that feel both functional and expressive of their styles.