Sometimes solving one problem creates another. That's what happened when Cambridge, MA residents Angela Shen-Hsieh and Mark Schindler opened up their previously sub-divided space. While their renovation got rid of the fragmented, boxy feel, it also eliminated most of their kitchen storage. This very sleek and pretty kitchen got a very interesting storage solution — read on to see how it works!
To remedy this problem, Boston architect Joseph Kennard designed a clever and practical solution that addresses the need for additional storage and functionality while retaining a sense of spaciousness.
Not only does the geode-shaped storage "pod" visually anchor the room, but it manages to house a china cabinet, wet bar, walk-in pantry, powder room, and guest room closet — all in a 9-foot-tall, 10-foot long area! By stopping the unit a few feet below the ceiling and lighting it from above, it feels more like a piece of custom furniture than a wall of built-in cabinets.
To learn more about Kennard's ingenious design:
• Read the full article: Design Decisions: A Pod With Plenty of Apps in Design New England.
Related: Small Space Solution: Narrow Rolling Pantry Shelves
(Images: Greg Premru)
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Fabulous idea!
Wow, I'm dying to see more photographs of that unit! Like all the different compartments and areas and inside, etc.
I agree, this is a might hideous. It also seems to be very obtrusive, as if it would draw the "what is that?" comments because its more of an oddity as oppose to something more thoughtfully produced. Not only that but when designing a kitchen, theres a 'work triangle' between the sink, range, and fridge that should be in some kind of healthy relation to the items you are cooking. This thing here looks like its in the living room. Terrible
I don't think it's hideous, but it is pretty huge and I think it's blocking the space. I think a well-done, clever wall of cabinets would have been better.
Not only does the "pod" seem to be an awkward solution, but the whole floorplan seems "off" for me.
The new design has squeezed the living area into one of the awkward diagonal spaces; besides being bad Feng Shui, they are very difficult to design. They've also removed a fireplace, and I find the way the kitchen relates to the family room odd. Why not get rid of the family room (weird in an open concept), and instead have a decently sized and spaced living room? The whole thing just doesn't work for me.
http://digital.designnewengland.com/designnewengland/20100102#pg69
Even if it's euphemistically called a "powder room" I think housing a toilet with your kitchen things in one "pod" is gross.
What makes this any different than a butler's pantry? I know many people who live in row houses that have living room then dining room then bp then bathroom then kitchen. This just floats it in the space rather than ramming it against the wall. It provides the office with some privacy without cutting it off.
As to the work triangle. Look closely, there is one there. It is a bit slanted but in place. It is better than most galley kitchens.
So, my vote is that it is not hideous. I would like to have seen it more visually interesting implementation. However, it seems like it met the clients needs and desires quite well.
Also, the whole nastiness of you people is just appalling. Each post here evokes such bile at times that it makes me tired.
No kidding, JamesG. How do people come to a website that is devoted so purely to beautiful spaces (even if some of them aren't to everybody's tastes) and vomit all over that?
Double vote for eliminating the bile. There is no reason to hate on things so vehemently. While I do agree that 9 ft long, 10 ft high kitchen solutions are not germane to a blog devoted to modest spaces, many with kitchens about that size. And, that the pod is nothing special, innovative, or new. Frankly, its flaw more being boring than being offensive. But, we can and should express our opinions in a civil manner.
Thanks Viv and QM. I am now thinking that if this thing were elliptical and wrapped in a cool design, then I could really get into it. Maybe some bold, graphic print like Marimekko or a digital print of the homeowner's favorite lake in the mountains. It would be a lot harder to build and a good bit more expensive. I am sure that some of you will have a great example right at the tip of your tongue/fingers.
I think it's terrific!
It's not my cup of tea but I sure would love to all that extra storage space. It reminds me of one of those kiosks where someone makes keys for you.
If it were my space, I would chop that pod in half and put a countertop on it. I believe the kids are calling that an "island" these days. And while an island might not be the most design forward idea, it does provide more counter/prep surface area which this does not. It all depends on what you need more of, I guess.
I think it could be designed to remsemble a piece of furniture and really work - like a heavy duty armoire type thing...
I don't think the first picture helps anyone get an idea of what was created here, especially because it doesn't show the "pod" at all.
The work triangle, being work area/sink, range, and fridge, is still there. There is storage beside the fridge, built in with a microwave. This truely is a Pantry, across from the sink island. I'm not sure if i buy the whole "lighter weight" than if they had extended the walls to the ceiling, but i can't see any other problems with it, not if you've bothered to look at the link mschatelaine provided.
and whoever bitched about the powder room being with your kitchen stuff, you're an idiot. it's a separate room. it's like being upset about a washroom being next to the kitchen in a restaurant.