Zen & Wellness 

Mark Cayen

Empire Kitchen & Bath, Calgary, AB Canada

Choosing the healthiest materials was paramount for this project, as it is only the second home in the world and the first home in North America to be awarded GreenGuard Gold For Homes certification. Taking on this kitchen project meant Mark Cayen needed to learn about healthy materials on a whole new level. In addition, the desire for luxury materials and an airy, calming atmosphere presented further challenges for the 340-sq.-ft. space.

As the heart of the floor plan, the kitchen had to serve as a social space that linked to the Great Room while also provide functionality in the form of a connected office and pantry. Streamlined custom cabinetry with a flat-panel design in a warm wood tone anchors the space, meeting the high standards of zero-VOC construction. It is topped with Mont Blanc quartzite with an eased edge on both the island and back wall. In a leathered finish, it also acts as a backsplash behind the Gaggenau 36″ 400 Series Full Surface Induction Cooktop and 42″ black hood with Wolf Pro Hood Liner. Continuing along the back wall, paneled Integrated 30″ Vario 400 Series Refrigerator and Freezer from Gaggenau sit between the range wall and the Wolf M Series Transitional Single Oven and Convection Steam Oven.

The island, which faces the family room, sports seating for five, and includes The Galley 5′ Workstation, Tara Ultra Single Lever Mixer and Tara Ultra Bar Tap in Platinum Matte from Dornbracht, East Liner Cold Water Dispenser in Satin Nickel from Newport Brass and Cove panel-ready dishwasher.