When a single professional in Venice, California, set out to remodel his house, he showed designers Alexi Rennalls and Sam Gnatovich images of lofts and similar examples of industrial style. But he also told the pair—who compose Simo Design, a member of the Remodelista Architect/Designer Directory—that he wanted a neat and refined space. Rennalls and Gnatovich were happy to bridge the two directions, and helped their client “interpret the industrial look in a way that’s less aggressive and more inviting,” said Rennalls.
Major refinement was called for in the kitchen, which had three rows of open shelves spanning the room’s entire 18-foot width. Combined with an unattractive Ikea island and lower cabinetry, the effect “felt collegiate,” said Rennalls. “We are fans of open shelves, but this was too much. It looked very cluttered and unorganized.” Join us for a look at their solution.
Photography by David Gilbert, courtesy of Simo Design.
Above: The focus of the kitchen is an American black walnut island on casters, which the architects designed in partnership with furniture designer Doug McCollough. The top has a heavy lacquer finish so it can be used as a workspace.
Above: As for the kitchen cabinets, says Rennalls, “We knew the island was going to be the statement in the space so it was important for the cabinetry to act as a backdrop.” They chose Shaker-style flat panel doors painted white, paired with exposed hinges and hardware in antiqued bronze. At the island counter, the designers positioned a trio of Tall Stools from Catskills company Sawkille.
Above: The kitchen runner is from Garde in LA and the engineered solid oak flooring is from Provenza Floors. The countertops are flamed absolute black granite.
Above: The designers sourced white subway tiles from Mission Tile West in Pasadena and had them installed both horizontally and vertically with dark gray grout; they spaced the open shelves according to the height of the tiles. The kitchen faucet is Kohler’s Parq in oil-rubbed bronze.
Above: UK designer Benjamin Hubert’s Decode Heavy Lights hang above the kitchen. In the background, Sheer Belgian Linen Drapery from Restoration Hardware helps diffuse the strong afternoon sun.
Before
Above: Unflattering real estate photography aside, the kitchen was in need of an update. “The layout wasn’t really the issue,” said Rennalls. “It was all about refining the surfaces and materials.”
See the rest of the house in Rehab Diary: LA Living, Venice Style. See more from Simo in A Masculine Midcentury Revival in LA and Swimming Pool of the Week: A Modern Update in Beverly Hills on Gardenista.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Industrial Lite kitchen located?
The Industrial Lite kitchen is located in Venice, California.
Who designed the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen was designed by SIMO Design.
What is the style of the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen is an industrial style with a modern twist.
What is the color scheme of the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen has a neutral color scheme with white, gray, and wood tones.
What type of cabinets are used in the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen features custom wood and stainless steel cabinets.
What type of countertops are used in the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen features gray concrete countertops.
What appliances are used in the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen features high-end stainless steel appliances from brands such as Sub-Zero and Wolf.
What type of flooring is used in the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen features concrete flooring that has been polished and sealed.
What type of lighting is used in the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The Industrial Lite kitchen features a combination of industrial style pendant lighting and recessed lighting.
What is the cost of the Industrial Lite kitchen?
The cost of the Industrial Lite kitchen is not provided in the article, as it is a custom design project.
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