Black may not be everyone’s first choice for a ceiling color. But in this merit-winning kitchen created by Nar Bustamante, president of Nar Fine Carpentry, for a family in Davis, CA, it works perfectly. Not only effective in reducing glare, it lends focus and intimacy to a bistro-chic remodel that maximizes work surfaces, keeps children out of harm’s way, ensures easy access and provides a place to show off original paintings.

An evocative mix of materials helps tame the 21-ft. 3-in. x 12-ft. 2-in. space—which is tall and narrow—and integrates it with an adjoining family room. In addition to the use of black paint, a series of aluminum cabinets with textured glass inserts on top helps lower the ceiling visually, while below, anigré and maple cabinets serve up contrast and a sense of warmth. All of the base units are topped with seafoam granite counters for continuity, and slate on the walls and a peninsula further enrich the space.


But Bustamante’s design is about more than just aesthetics. An angled refrigerator and an oversized island ensure a well-functioning work triangle, and a dual-level peninsula with a bar counter and seating on one side allows the children to interact with their parents without entering the prep area. Storage accessories abound to keep the kitchen organized and user-friendly, and an all-LED lighting scheme saves energy while supplying ample brightness for working, dining and enjoying art.