Period Kitchen

Our period dream kitchen was originally a back parlor in our 1840s house in Rockport, Maine. The furniture-style cabinets blend with the original woodwork and trim to give many visitors the impression that only the appliances are new. We did add the picture rail to save the old plaster walls from too many nails. (Photo by Keller + Keller)Teak plate rack I made with scraps from the countertop below. (Photo by Keller + Keller)Leaving the space under the sink open allows more natural light and lets us enjoy the original window trim below.I backed the copper countertop with heat-resistant cement board so it could take pots hot from the stove. (Photo by Keller + Keller)The teak counter around the sink requires little maintenance. The wood's natural oils make it water-resistant and I like how it grays in the sun as it ages. (Photo by Keller + Keller)

I designed this period kitchen with traditional furniture elements and contemporary amenities. I faced the cabinets and drawers with poplar knowing it would take paint well. The sink is set into a teak countertop. I used the scraps to make the plate rack above it. The opposite counter I covered in copper. I laid a new Douglas fir floor that connects seamlessly to the dining room.

Read about our house renovation in The Boatbuilder's House from Yankee magazine, Sept-Oct 2009.