Ravenswood Manor Noir: A Study in Contrast and Culinary Tech
In the historic, charming neighborhood of Ravenswood Manor, Chicago, a kitchen isn't just a place to cook—it's the epicenter of home life. For one client, the vision was clear: a space that was not only visually stunning with a bold, high-contrast aesthetic but also equipped with the most advanced culinary technology available. We were thrilled to bring this vision to life, creating a kitchen that is a masterclass in both form and function.
A Bold Statement in Black and White
The design journey began with a dramatic and sophisticated color palette. We anchored the space with striking black quartz countertops and a matching full-height backsplash, creating a seamless and powerful statement. This dark, luxurious element is beautifully contrasted by crisp white custom cabinetry. To complete the look, we installed elegant a heated black tile floor and added sleek black handle pulls on the custom paneled refrigerator and freezer, tying the entire design together. The result is a timeless, high-contrast space that feels both modern and effortlessly chic.
To round out the kitchen's luxury offerings, we integrated a built-in Miele coffee station, creating the perfect beverage center for a morning espresso or an after-dinner cappuccino.
Reimagined for a Modern Workflow
A beautiful kitchen must also be a functional one. We completely reconfigured the original layout to better suit a modern lifestyle. The centerpiece of the new design is an enlarged island, which now serves as a multi-purpose hub for meal prep, casual dining, and entertaining. We incorporated a large workstation and sink into the island, adding a new layer of functionality and streamlining the cooking process.
For a touch of unique character, we installed a stunning light fixture from the Luke Lamp Co. —a piece so beloved, we also have it hanging in our own office!
The Ultimate Culinary Experience: The GE Monogram Appliance Suite
At the heart of this kitchen is a suite of state-of-the-art appliances from GE Monogram. This luxury line is engineered for those who are passionate about cooking, blending professional-grade power with sophisticated, integrated design.
The client chose fully-integrated, panel-ready appliances that disappear into the custom cabinetry, creating a clean, uninterrupted look. The suite includes:
Column Refrigerator and Freezer: These separate, panel-ready units offer incredible storage flexibility and a seamless aesthetic.
Induction Cooktop and Modern Hood: For precision, safety, and ease of cleaning, an induction cooktop was the perfect choice, paired with a discreet but powerful modern hood.
Panel-Ready Wine Sommelier: An elegant touch for the discerning entertainer, ensuring every bottle is stored at the perfect temperature.
The kitchen also features a standard GE Monogram convection wall oven for everyday baking and roasting, paired with the revolutionary GE Monogram Advantium 5-in-1 Oven. This is far more than just a microwave; it's a culinary powerhouse that functions as:
A Speedcook Oven, using halogen light to cook food two to eight times faster than a conventional oven with no preheating.
A true Convection Oven for perfectly even baking.
A Toaster Oven.
A Warming/Proofing Oven.
A high-performance Microwave.
This incredible versatility saves valuable counter space and provides the tools for any culinary challenge, from a quick weekday meal to a gourmet feast.
Your Dream Kitchen Awaits
This Ravenswood Manor project is a perfect example of how thoughtful design and cutting-edge technology can converge to create a kitchen that is both a stunning centerpiece and a high-performance workspace.
Inspired to begin your own Chicago kitchen transformation? Contact Metro Design Build Inc. today to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.