“This new space has become the heart of our home and the life of the party!” says Mary. “Thanks to Andy and Kathy, we read in overstuffed upholstered chairs in the bay window, cook and eat together, and drink morning coffee in this elegant yet casual room.” In addition to suiting daily needs, this remodeled kitchen is ideal for hosting parties like the progressive party enjoyed by several of Sikora and Speas design build friends (and clients). “The large island with comfy wood and leather stools and a nearby round table comfortably fits up to twelve, and I thoroughly enjoy talking to my guests while preparing dinner or appetizers,” says Tony.

The Look


The old world feel of this custom kitchen design features a custom stove hood of clay and crushed shells accented with crinkled copper.  To create a truly old world look, we choose warm colors on the chocolate glazed knotty alder cabinets.  To keep with a truly custom feel, the dishwasher is kept out of sight (but not out of reach) by using knotty alder drawer fronts.   Chiseled Solaris Granite countertops (a must for any kitchen remodel) accent the antique white island with furniture like newel posts and bead board. Cooking for two or twelve is a breeze with the stainless steel Wolfe gas range (ideal for the novice or the gourmet cook), oil rubbed bronze pot filler, and dual under mount sinks.  Stainless steel appliances blend well with the oil rubbed bronze custom lighting. We incorporated an artistic blending of shapes and sizes of travertine tile backsplash and travertine floor tiles in a Versailles pattern, and buttery yellow faux finish on the walls.

The Layout


A joint collaboration with builder, Andy Sikora and our homeowners, we worked within the home’s original footprint to design a kitchen that seamlessly melds cooking, cleanup, and entertaining spaces into one exquisite room. The sink, range, dining area, and gathering space all center on the room’s island.  This practical design separates work areas from entertaining areas but allows for ideal traffic flow. All of the areas are functional and work together while the interior design makes guests feel at home.

Source Guide


Interior Designer: Katherine Speas, Speas Interior Design


Cabinets & Center Island: Crestwood Cabinetry from Plush Designs 


Design/Build:  Sikora & Speas


Faux Finish Walls: Nasazi Artworks

Countertops: Chiseled Solaris

Furniture, Upholstery, Island Seating, Fabrics & Window Treatments:  Katherine Speas

Tile Backsplash & Floors: Travertine


Lights:   Maxim Lighting

Appliances: Kitchenaid refrigerator and microwave, Fischer-Paykel dishdrawer dishwasher, Wolfe range

Main Sink:  Kohler

Veggie Sink:  Linkasink

Faucets and Pot filler: Rhol


Accessories: Katherine Speas


Custom Range Hood (clay, crushed shell, and reclaimed copper circuit boards): Andy Sikora

Real Estate experts say that kitchen remodels are one of the best financial investments you can make in your home.  When starting a major kitchen makeover, make sure to select an experienced interior design who you can communicate with and a licensed general contractor who will manage the entire project from beginning to end.

Planning the perfect kitchen for family or formal gatherings will be hard work, but the rewards are well worth the time and effort! Remember it’s critical to consider (before you get started) how you’re going to use this space and what you want this remodel to accomplish.

Getting excited?  We are!  Let’s get cooking (I mean designing)! If you would like an interior design and remodeling consultation for your dream kitchen, contact Katherine Speas, Speas Interior Design. An award winning Colorado Springs Interior Designer, Kathy Speas is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers and an expert on incorporating style, comfort, and livability into your home and lifestyle. SpeasInteriorDesign.com.