applewood atomic

When a client tells us they’re a mid-century collector and yearn for a kitchen design that stands out from the rest, we are absolutely thrilled to bring their vision to life. This kitchen is a true celebration of mid-century charm, with each custom feature thoughtfully designed to capture the essence of that iconic era. From the vibrant color palette to the sleek, clean lines, every detail exudes retro elegance. It's nearly impossible to choose a favorite aspect because every element, from the unique cabinetry to the stylish fixtures, contributes to a space that is both nostalgic and uniquely personal. Working on a project like this is a delightful journey, and we love crafting spaces that reflect our clients’ passions and individuality.

Modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, yellow tile backsplash, marble countertop island, black faucet, and various kitchen items and fruits on the counters.

tABLE OF CONTENTS

the cabinetry

Close-up of a modern kitchen cabinet with gold handles, part of a kitchen counter with coffee cups and a coffee machine in the background.
Kitchen countertop with a bouquet of white flowers, decorative yellow slices, and two coffee mugs with colorful geometric patterns, alongside a stainless steel microwave oven built into the wooden cabinetry.
Kitchen with yellow diamond-patterned tile wall, dark wooden cabinet with white sliding doors, dishes inside, and decorated countertop with bowls and figurines.
Kitchen countertop with a wooden chopping board containing sliced strawberries and whole strawberries. A knife rests on the board. In the background, a larger bowl filled with a mixed salad of strawberries, greens, and other vegetables is placed on a marble countertop.

We had the pleasure of partnering with one of our favorite Denver cabinet shops to make our walnut dreams come true!  We were able to include a multitude of custom features in this kitchen including frosted glass doors in the island, open cubbies, a hidden cutting board, and great interior cabinet storage.  But what really catapults these kitchen cabinets to the next level is the eye-popping angled wall cabinets with sliding doors, a true throwback to the magic of the mid-century kitchen.  Streamline brushed brass cabinetry pulls provided the perfect lux accent against the handsome walnut finish of the slab cabinetry doors.

Modern kitchen with dark wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and yellow tile backsplash; view into living room with stone fireplace and large windows.

THE TILE

A cozy kitchen with yellow tile backsplash, dark wood and white cabinets, and a black range hood. A dog with white and brown spots is lying on the wooden floor near the door.
Modern kitchen with yellow patterned tile backsplash, wooden cabinets, and a white marble countertop. There are bowls and a basket of fruit on the counter, along with kitchenware and a black range hood above.
White casserole dish with black handle on a kitchen countertop, with a yellow tile backsplash in the background.

Amidst all the warm clean lines of this mid-century kitchen we wanted to add a splash of color and pattern, and a funky backsplash tile did the trick!  We utilized a handmade yellow picket tile with a high variation to give us a bit of depth; and incorporated randomly placed white accent tiles for added interest and to compliment the white sliding doors of the angled cabinets, helping to bring all the materials together.

Kitchen countertop with white and yellow pots, stacked bowls, decorative figurines, and a patterned yellow tile backsplash.

THE COUNTERTOPS

Close-up of a kitchen granite countertop with an integrated drainboard, a black faucet, and a background view of a white door and window.

We selected a stunning quartz for the countertops that seamlessly merges lighter tones with the warm hues of the cabinetry, creating a harmonious and inviting aesthetic. One of the standout features is the custom integrated drain board, designed in a charming starburst pattern. This thoughtful addition ensures that the island remains uncluttered, eliminating the need for a bulky drying rack. Additionally, the cooktop has been expertly recessed into the countertop, resulting in a sleek, flush installation. This not only enhances the kitchen’s modern, streamlined look but also provides a smooth and uninterrupted surface that is both practical and visually appealing.

Two covered pots on a stovetop, one white and one yellow with a decorative pattern, on a granite countertop.
Modern kitchen with a yellow tile backsplash, black range hood, open cabinets with dishes, marble countertop, black faucet, a chandelier with white and black shades, and a window to the right.

THE STAIR DETAILS

Interior view of a room with a metal railing in the foreground, showing a living space with plants, chairs, a lamp, and decorative items.
Wooden staircase with black metal railing against light green walls.
View from a kitchen island with a granite countertop, black faucet, and three glasses, looking into a living room with a stone fireplace, green walls, and various furniture and plants.

Eager to infuse a touch of geometric flair into this home, we designed a custom steel handrail that is both stylish and unique. The playful zig-zag design harmonizes beautifully with the angles of the picket tiles, adding a dynamic visual element that enhances the overall aesthetic. The sleek black finish of the handrail perfectly complements the black metal accents found throughout the kitchen, creating a cohesive and sophisticated look. This custom piece not only serves as a functional safety feature but also as an artistic statement that adds character and charm to the home. The combination of bold design and meticulous craftsmanship makes this handrail a standout element in the space.

Indoor living space with a staircase railing overlooking a cozy lounge area with plants, a fireplace, and shelves, and two yellow pet feeding stations on the wooden floor below.

THE LIGHTING

A bright yellow dining room with a round white table set with dishes, silverware, and cups. There are three white modern chairs around the table. A chandelier with green accents hangs above, and a window with white blinds and a view of stairs outside is in the background. A framed colorful abstract art piece is on the yellow wall.

The standard builder handrail was just not going to do it anymore!  So, we leveled up designed a custom steel & wood railing for this home with a dark finish that allows it to contrast beautifully against the walls and tie in with the dark accent finishes throughout the home.

Dining room with a large wooden table, purple chairs, and modern lamps. Wall art, decorative candles, and ceramics are on a sideboard and shelves.
Modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, stainless steel oven, a countertop with a sink, bowls, and a fruit tray, and a decorative light fixture hanging from the ceiling.
Modern kitchen with a yellow tiled backsplash, black range hood, white and black chandelier, granite island with glasses and bowls of food, and open wooden cabinets with dishes.