Kitchens and Living Room Combos

The Right Ingredients

Part of what makes the multiuse room work is the materials.

Create visual unity: The cream-colored cabinets in this kitchen are matched by another set at one end of the family room, tying the two areas together. Antique heart-pine floors are laid throughout. A khaki color on the walls enhances the light atmosphere.

Define space with strong details: Because the space is so large, it allows for a substantial island that visually divides the room. The piece, painted black, provides the counter-space that most cooks only dream about, but it doesn’t skimp on details such as carved legs. Armoire-style cabinetry in an alcove between the kitchen and formal dining room has the same rich black finish.